On Friday, authorities in South Africa revealed that an American pastor was abducted in front of his congregation by masked armed men in South Africa’s Eastern Cape. Authorities say that four armed men broke into the Fellowship Baptist Church on Thursday evening. The men robbed two members of the congregation, taking their cell phones before abducting the pastor and driving off with him in his truck. Officials state that an investigation into the abduction and armed robbery has been initiated.
The Pastor Is A Missionary
The pastor has been identified by local media as Josh Sullivan, 45, from Tennessee. According to the church’s blog, Sullivan is a “church-planting missionary.” In November of 2018, Sullivan’s wife, Meagan, and his two children arrived in South Africa to help run the church.
Photos of Sullivan standing behind the pulpit of the church have been shared on the social media site X by user Tom Hatley. In his blog, Sullivan identifies Hatley as someone he has known since childhood and has trained him to be a pastor. In his posts, Hatley said he was posting on behalf of Sullivan’s wife and asked for prayers for his safe return.
Sullivan’s Mother Asks For Prayers
Sullivan’s mother, Tonya Rinker of Maryville, Tennessee, expressed her heartache on her Facebook page. She asked her followers to pray for her son and his family. She also shared that the American Embassy was now involved in the investigation.
Captain Andre Beetge, a spokesperson for the South African police, confirmed that Sullivan’s truck had been stolen. The vehicle, a silver Toyota Fortuner, was discovered abandoned in Motherwell not long after the abduction took place.
No Ransom Has Been Requested Yet
The Anti-Gang Unit in South Africa has reportedly taken over the lead on the investigation. Beetge shared that protocol dictated that once a ransom demand was made, the case would have to be handed over to the Hawks, a police unit that investigates organized crime and corruption. “As I understand, there has been no ransom raised,” said Beetge. He also urged anyone with any information about the pastor and his abduction to contact authorities.
They Knew His Name
Sullivan was holding a prayer meeting with 30 people when the kidnappers stormed into the church. Among those in attendance were Sullivan’s wife and children. “They knew his name,” said Rev. Jeremy Hall, a spokesperson for the Sullivan family. He shared that the men forced the pastor into his truck and then sped away. The abductors have not reached out in any way since abducting Sullivan. Officials believe the abduction is about money, and they will eventually reach out.
Supporters Offer Well-Wishes
Supporters have flooded Sullivan’s blog and social media sites with prayers and well-wishes. “We are now praying that you are delivered from these evil men,” Richard Stockton wrote on the church website. Sullivan’s wife, Meagan, issued a statement on Saturday saying, “I just want to say thank you for the outpouring of love and prayers. We beg you to continue storming the throne room until Josh is safe at home.”
