American Pastor Josh Sullivan Thanks God After Dramatic Rescue in South Africa
Sarah Johnson
April 22, 2025
Brief
American pastor Josh Sullivan credits faith and global support after surviving a dramatic kidnapping in South Africa, expressing gratitude to law enforcement, his wife, and supporters worldwide.
American pastor Josh Sullivan has spoken out after surviving a harrowing kidnapping in South Africa's Eastern Cape Province, giving thanks to God and the global community for his rescue.
Sullivan described his ordeal as the "worst experience" of his life, crediting his faith for helping him endure captivity. He shared that his personal relationship with Jesus gave him the strength he needed to survive the terrifying situation.
He expressed deep gratitude to the thousands who prayed for him, believing those prayers played a part in what he calls a miraculous rescue. Sullivan also extended thanks to South Africa's Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation (HAWKS), the FBI, Diplomatic Security Service special agents, and local police for their roles in securing his freedom. Special mention went to his wife, whose strength under pressure he praised as unparalleled.
While asking for privacy as he recovers, Sullivan promised to share his "miraculous" story in full when the time is right. According to HAWKS, their operation led to the successful rescue of an American citizen—reportedly Sullivan—who had been kidnapped and held at a safe house in KwaMagxaki, Gqeberha, since April 15, 2025.
The kidnapping reportedly took place when four armed men stormed Sullivan's church, dragging him from the pulpit. His truck was found abandoned a few hours later. Sullivan has been working with the Fellowship Baptist Church in the Motherwell township since 2018.
Authorities believe his abduction is linked to a recent surge in armed robberies across South Africa. For now, Sullivan is safe and reunited with his loved ones—a relief not just for his family, but for everyone following this dramatic international rescue.
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Editor's Comments
You know it's a wild week at church when 'deliver us from evil' turns into a real-life action sequence. Seriously, hats off to the South African police and everyone involved—sounds like even Liam Neeson would be impressed by this rescue. But let’s be honest, Sullivan’s wife deserves her own superhero cape after holding it together through all this.
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