Pastor Abducted in Front of His Family During Church Service — What We Know So Far

In a terrifying and deeply emotional scene, an American pastor was kidnapped during a church service in South Africa — as his wife and six children looked on helplessly.

Josh Sullivan, a U.S. missionary serving in the township of Motherwell, near Gqeberha (formerly Port Elizabeth), had just begun leading worship on Wednesday, April 10, when four armed men stormed the church.

What happened next left the congregation shaken to its core.

The masked attackers entered the Fellowship Baptist Church during the morning service. According to witnesses, they forced their way inside, brandishing guns, and ordered everyone to the ground. They stole cell phones and personal belongings from the roughly 50 people in attendance — and then went straight for Sullivan.

“They knew exactly who they came for,” one church member said. “It wasn’t a robbery. It was a targeted abduction.”

The gunmen dragged the pastor outside and forced him into his own white Isuzu bakkie (pickup truck). His wife, Angela, and their six children, who were attending the service, could do nothing but watch as their husband and father was driven away.

The vehicle was later found abandoned several miles away — but there’s been no word from the kidnappers since.

South African authorities, including the Anti-Gang Unit, have launched an intensive investigation. The U.S. State Department has confirmed it’s working with local officials to support the search and provide assistance to the family.

So far, no group has claimed responsibility. There has been no ransom demand, raising fears that the kidnapping may be linked to organized crime or targeted violence against missionaries.

South Africa, while known for its beauty and vibrant culture, has seen a dramatic rise in kidnapping cases — particularly in regions with high gang activity. Kidnappings have surged by more than 260% in the past 10 years, according to local law enforcement data.

Josh Sullivan and his family moved to South Africa as part of a long-term mission effort, working with local churches and community development projects. Friends describe him as “humble, kind, and devoted to God and his family.”

“He’s the kind of man who would do anything to help someone in need,” said a fellow missionary. “It’s unthinkable that someone like him would be taken in such a violent way.”

As of now, the Sullivan family waits for answers — and prays for a miracle.