Kidnapped pastor Josh Sullivan returns to US after ordeal
Josh Sullivan, the US pastor who was kidnapped and rescued in a dramatic showdown, has returned to America.
Earlier this week, the Tennessee-born preacher broke his silence about the traumatic ordeal, which he labelled the 'worst experience' of his life.
In 2018, Sullivan and his family relocated to South Africa, where they established a church in the Eastern Cape.
In a Facebook post, Josh Sullivan posted an update about himself, now in the US. The 45-year-old tagged his location, back in his home in Tennessee.
Earlier this week, the US pastor broke his silence about his kidnapping experience, which occurred mid-sermon earlier this week. After five days of being held ransom, Josh was rescued by police, who shot dead three suspects.
He shared: 'I want to begin by thanking God for delivering me from what was undoubtedly the worst experience of my life. I also want to thank him for delivering me from my sin 28 years ago when I accepted Jesus Christ. Because of my personal relationship with Jesus, He gave me the peace I needed to get through'.
Josh Sullivan thanked the public for their prayers, which he believes resulted in the 'miracle' of his rescue.
He also thanked the South African police, the FBI, and other law enforcement authorities for their rescue mission.
He added, 'As we begin the difficult process of healing and moving forward, we kindly ask for
Meanwhile, the US Embassy has thanked authorities for rescuing Josh Sullivan, five days after his kidnapping.
It shared in a press statement: 'We commend the swift, coordinated SAPS response, led by the Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation (the Hawks), in collaboration with the Serious Organised Crime Investigation team, Anti-Gang Unit, Crime Intelligence, Tactical Response Team, and other partners. We are grateful for their cooperation with the U.S. Mission.
It added that the mission was 'committed to continued collaboration with South African counterparts to promote the safety and security of U.S. citizens'.
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