U.S. Missionary Kidnapped in South Africa: Pray for Josh Sullivan's Safe Return - Faith & Freedom News

A troubling incident unfolded in South Africa’s port city of Gqeberha in the Eastern Cape province when a U.S. missionary, Josh Sullivan, was kidnapped on Thursday evening. As reports confirm that he was abducted while delivering a sermon at the Fellowship Baptist Church Motherwell, his family has urgently called for prayers for his safe return.

The Incident: What We Know So Far

Late Thursday evening, at approximately 7 p.m. local time, Josh Sullivan was delivering a sermon at his church when armed attackers struck. According to family spokesperson Jeremy Hall, the assailants, who appeared to have prior knowledge of Sullivan, entered the church and confronted his wife, Meagan, before abducting him. Although Meagan and the children managed to escape unharmed, the shock of the incident continues to reverberate through the congregation and community.

“They [the attackers] knew his name. The men entered the church and initially held Meagan, walked her towards the door, and then called out, ‘Josh, is this your wife?’ They pushed her to the ground, took Josh, and drove off in his vehicle,” Jeremy Hall explained.

The abductors also stole two cellphones from the scene, and the silver Toyota Fortuner—Sullivan’s vehicle—was later recovered in the nearby township of Motherwell.

Law Enforcement Response

Local police, led by Captain Andre Beetge, swiftly responded to the incident by opening a kidnapping and armed robbery case. Authorities have urged residents with any relevant information to come forward and assist with the investigation. Despite no immediate ransom demand being reported, the unexpected nature of the abduction has left both the local community and Sullivan’s family in a state of disbelief and anxiety.

A Dedicated Missionary and Community Leader

Josh Sullivan has served as a church planter missionary with the Fellowship Baptist Church for nearly seven years. Alongside his wife Meagan, he established the Fellowship Baptist Church Motherwell in Gqeberha. His work extends beyond preaching; he and his team have been instrumental in providing humanitarian aid to local families, particularly within the Xhosa-speaking community.

Sullivan’s dedication to spreading the Gospel and fostering new congregations in areas with few or no existing Christian communities has made him a respected figure among both local and international believers.

A Global Call for Prayer

In light of this harrowing event, Michael D. Butler, CEO of Beyond Publishing & Faith & Freedom News, has issued an urgent appeal to the global Christian community to pray for the safe return of Josh Sullivan. Advocacy groups, including those in Pakistan, have also been vocal in their support, calling on Christians worldwide to unite in prayer and stand in solidarity with Sullivan and his family.

“We have issued an urgent appeal to the global Christian community to unite in prayer for the safe return of American missionary Josh Sullivan,” Butler said.

How You Can Help

Pray for Josh Sullivan: Join believers around the world in praying for his swift and safe return.
Share This Story: Help spread the word by sharing this post with your community and on social media.
Stay Informed: Follow updates from local law enforcement and faith-based organizations as new developments unfold.

In Conclusion

The kidnapping of Josh Sullivan is a stark reminder of the dangers faced by missionaries around the globe. As Christians and supporters of his work, it is incumbent upon us to stand together in faith and demand justice while keeping his family in our hearts and prayers.

Let us pray for his safe return and for renewed strength for his family and community during this challenging time. Stay connected for more updates on this developing story.

Join the conversation: What are your thoughts on the safety of missionaries worldwide? How can faith communities better support those in harm’s way? Share your insights in the comments below.