YOU CAN'T STOP BIRDS FROM FLYING OVER YOUR HEAD, BUT YOU CAN KEEP THEM FROM BUILDING NESTS IN YOUR HAIR!
Friday, September 24, 2010, 8:55:54 PM Ray Hagins
This past week has been a time of reckoning for many thousands of "believers" and church goers! The alleged claims of sexual misconduct against Bishop Eddie Long has caused many people to adopt several postures in order to appease their need for peace of mind.
One of the postures that has been taken by many people is that of practical atheism. A practical atheist is one who knows that God is, and has a deep love and devotion for the things of God; but because they have been disillusioned by, or disappointed in, the behavior and conduct of one who they perceive as a "man of God" (God's messenger or representative), they compulsively decide that they don't want to have anything else to do with God, church, or church folks! Unfortunately, there are more practical atheists in our society than we realize.
Another posture that is being taken by many is the "no one is perfect" defense. I have heard more references to David's sin of murdering Bathsheba's husband (Uriah) this week than I have heard in my entire life. Of course, people have a need to secure their indoctrination (their faith) because this is the very foundation of their existence, and therefore will find a way to explain that God's "mercy and grace" looks beyond (and even excuses) the wrong things that we do. After all, David was "a man after God's own heart." But what is NOT emphasized is that even though David was supposedly "a man after God's own heart," God had some very harsh consequences for David's actions. These were: (1) "Now therefore the sword shall never depart from thine house..." (2)Thus saith the LORD, Behold, I will raise up evil against thee out of thine own house, and I will take thy wives before thine eyes, and give them unto thy neighbour, and he shall lie with thy wives in the sight of this sun. For thou didst it secretly: but I will do this thing before all Israel, and before the sun." (3) "because by this deed thou hast given great occasion to the enemies of the LORD to blaspheme, the child also that is born unto thee shall surely die." The ONLY thing that God did do for David was spared his life (because he was "a man after God's own heart"). (And of course, this is from the premise that there was really a David and Bathsheba to begin with!)
And yet another posture that many are taking is "we ought to be walking in truth anyway." What is meant by "truth" here is coming out of the closet and no longer hiding what you know is and will be unacceptable to others.
So understand that when I say, "you can't stop birds from flying over your head," I mean that people are going to think whatever they want to think and say whatever they want to say. There is absolutely nothing that anyone can do about that. In fact, if people didn't do that I would think that there is something wrong with us. People running their mouths is just as natural as fish swimming...that's what they do! This is why publications like The Globe and The Enquirer are strategically placed at check out counters in every supermarket in the country. So, to expect people to be silent about what is going on in the lives of others (especially those who are considered to be "leaders") would be denying reality.
One of the lessons that my parents taught me during my teenage years was, "as soon as you stand above the crowd you become a target for those in the crowd...simply because you are above them." Every "leader" needs to understand this fact. As long as you are among the crowd, people are not aware of you or what you do because you are just another person in the crowd! In fact, people are not even really interested in you on that level. Think about it! Have you ever been in a crowd of people? Were you really concerned with the life, deeds, activities, etc. of the other people in the crowd? No, you weren't! In fact, you were most likely concerned with one thing...and one thing only...and that was navigating your way through the crowd. But now imagine your seeing someone (literally) hovering above the crowd that you are in! Immediately all of the attention gets focused on the particular individual because he (or she) is above the crowd.
Being above the crowd is a laudable position to be in. It is a place of honor. And it should be a place of humility. I say this because even though being in a position of leadership is considered to be an "above the crowd" position, it is the crowd that is responsible for your being in a position above the them! Many "leaders" today have forgotten that the only reason why they are "leaders" is because people have chosen to follow them. It's not because they are so great or intelligent, but because someone saw a quality in them that caused that person to choose to put their trust in that other person's leadership. This is something that is sacred and should be taken very seriously.
So, what is our responsibility as "leaders?" And for the sake of clarity, when I use the term "leaders" I mean those who operate in the capacity of being an example for others to follow by the life we live and by the things we say (e.g., being above the crowd). Every boy needs a man to provide an example of manhood for him to emulate. Every girl needs a woman to provide an example of womanhood for her to emulate. That is God's design for our development.
In like manner, those who have accepted the challenge of leadership must remember the fiduciary responsibility that we chose to accept. A fiduciary is someone who, of his own free will and accord, has undertaken to act for and on behalf of another in a particular matter in circumstances which give rise to a relationship of trust and confidence. Even when those whom you have chosen to devote your life to doesn't return such devotion, the obligation to maintain character is still there! I will never forget the day that my mother and teacher said to me, "Ray, being a pastor means loving people enough to let them hurt you so that you can help them." That was a period in my life when I wanted to lay aside my character and say a few words to some backstabbers (birds flying over my head BIG TIME). But my character as a leader mandated that I not lower myself in such a way.
When people make their allegations (and they will), that is simply birds flying over your head. But when they actually build nests in your hair that means that their allegations are true (or at least based in fact). One of the requests that I have continuously made of the members of The Afrikan Village & Cultural Center International is "please do not give our enemies any ammunition to use against us." All leaders have enemies! I repeat, ALL LEADERS HAVE ENEMIES!" It comes with the territory! And there is one common characteristic that enemies have...they want to destroy you! They WANT to see you fall. The most common method of enemy activity is called character assassination with (usually) bogus and unfounded allegations. And trust me when I say it can come as an onslaught. And it sometimes causes damage to those who are weak minded enough to listen and feed into this kind of enemy activity. So, all leaders should prepare for and expect the birds to come.
But, once the birds have built the nests in your hair...meaning that the allegations are, in fact, true...then THAT'S another thing all together! In these situations, it is the crowd that I am most concerned with! Not the person who violated the crowd's trust, but the many thousands of people who may become wounded to the point that they will never trust another "leader" again. This is the message in the story of David and Bathsheba. David had a responsibility to those in his kingdom, and that was to protect them...not use his position and power to strategically orchestrate the death of a man so that he could have his wife. This type of planning revealed what kind of heart David had.
Many people have asked me what do I think about the situation with Bishop Eddie Long. My answer to the question is I think it is tragic! I have talked to several people who have first hand knowledge about many of the things that have been going on there (I was told) "for at least the last 18 years." And each of them have said to me that this stuff should have come out long ago. And if what I have been told is true, then I agree that this should have come out long ago.
Nevertheless, my concern is for the thousands of people who will be wounded by this travesty. It's time for change! But, unfortunately it often takes a tragic event to propel change into our environment. Like it or not, a change is coming and many people will never be the same again. I think that the rippling effect of this issue is going to reach far beyond Bishop Eddie Long to other prominent ministers and musicians as well. But the thing that terrifies me the most is that the result will only be an eye opener for thousands of people and nothing more. Sometimes things happen to force us to see what we previously chose not to see, but that does not necessarily mean change. It simply means that certain things cannot be denied any longer. If there is one thing that I have learned over the last 12 years it is that there is none so blind as he who WILL NOT see!
In closing, never forget that your enemy has a gun aimed at your head just waiting for you to give him the ammunition that he needs to blow your head off. Therefore, your task is a very simple one...don't do ANYTHING that will give them the bullet that they want. Be sure that they are only shooting blanks (making noise). That's a good thing because it is the best and most effective form of advertisement. Your enemy thinks that they are hurting you while they are shooting blanks (even though their ignorance makes them think its real ammunition). They don't even realize that they are drawing more attention to you. So, as long as you KNOW you haven't done wrong, then take advantage of their focus on you so that people can see what you are really about.
But when the allegations are true...then it's time to step away...make restitution...get whatever treatment you need for how ever long you need it...and then get yourself back on track. And after all that...if it's not too late...then come back
Showing posts with label church stuff. Show all posts
Showing posts with label church stuff. Show all posts
Thursday, September 30, 2010
Sick, Sex, Church "Stuff" (Eddie Long)
What Have We Become?
Monday, September 27, 2010, 10:36:35 PM Ray Hagins
Sunday I tuned in (as did thousands of others) to hear what Eddie Long was going to say. After having to watch more than an hour of what I didn't tune in for, he finally emerged with his wife. This, in and of itself (in my opinion), was an act of disrespect to the thousands of people who were there because (if we would be honest) EVERYONE wanted to hear only one thing...and one thing only...and that was what they had waited all week to hear him say. This man talked for almost 25 minutes and STILL DID NOT SAY the 4 words that his audience was craving to hear. He knew that these thousands of people, who love him and arrived as early as 5:00 a.m., stood in line for hours to be sure to get a seat up close and personal. They did not come to hear a sermon! All they wanted to hear him say was..."I DIDN'T DO IT!" If he had said just those 4 words, his followers would have left with the strength and determination to stand with their leader. BUT HE DID NOT SAY IT! And based on what I have come to learn...HE COULDN'T SAY IT!
As I watched and listened to Eddie Long making his comments to (as he said) "the world," I was absolutely infuriated by the words that he had the unmitigated audacity to say. After a rambling discourse on "How To Handle Painful and Difficult Situations," this person opened his mouth and said, "I have never in my life presented myself as a perfect man." WHAT!?!?
It's real simple Eddie Long! You have been accused of molesting 4 young males. (Only you and God know how many others. According to discussions that I have had with people who are very close to this situation and its history, it is expected to be as many as 35 to 40 others who are expected to come forth. But, FOR NOW, it is only 4!) And the first thing out of your mouth is..."I have never presented myself to be a perfect man!?!?!?" It would have been more appreciated and not as insulting to our intellect if you had pleaded the 5th and said, "Due to the fact that this matter is in litigation, I decline to make any statements at this time on the grounds that it might incriminate me." At least that would have been a more intelligent statement than..."I am not a perfect man." Eddie Long incriminated himself with those words alone and everyone knows it!
Now, let's deal with the words "a perfect man" for a moment...
According to the theological perspectives that are taught in Christianity, the idea or concept of being "perfect" (teleios) means being "full grown, adult, of full age, mature." It has absolutely nothing to do with being flawless. So, by saying "I am not a perfect man," Eddie Long is saying that he is NOT "full grown, adult, of full age, mature?" According to the precepts of theological thought, the very position that Eddie Long (and every other pastor) holds mandates him to be "perfect" (teleios). Now, Eddie Long (as well as every other pastor) is fully aware of what I just explained in this paragraph. The average church member may not know this...but pastors do! So, his own words have disqualified him to hold the position that he now holds.
Furthermore, we all need to understand that there is not a "man" on this planet who, if accused of molesting 4 male youth, would not IMMEDIATELY say, "I did NOT do that." He would say this first and foremost...NOT..."I am not a perfect man!" Come on people, if you would only stop idolizing for 3 seconds, your spirit would say to you, "there's something wrong here, and it's not these young males who have filed these charges."
Now, with reference to these young male victims (because this article is really not about Eddie Long), let's take a closer look at these young males and the unjust attacks of "church folks" toward them! All eyes are on Eddie Long...but what about the young males who have come forth and unveiled the embarrassing, horrific, tragic, and damaging acts committed against them? What about the emotional and spiritual state and well being of these young males? How dare ANYONE say..."WE ARE WITH YOU BISHOP?" Who is with these young male victims? I have heard people (young and old) in support of Eddie Long say, "I believe him" or "That man loves his wife" or "We shouldn't be judging him." WHO IS SHOWING SUPPORT FOR THE YOUNG MALES WHOSE LIVES HAVE BEEN PERMANENTLY DAMAGED BY THIS PREDATOR? WHY AREN'T YOU "SAINTS" REACHING OUT TO THEM AND THEIR FAMILIES? WHAT IS WRONG WITH YOU! THESE ARE OUR CHILDREN! WHAT ARE YOU GOING TO DO IF AND WHEN YOU FIND OUT THAT ONE OF HIS VICTIMS WAS YOUR SON OR GRANDSON? (Okay, let me stop shouting...)
As a pastor and therapist, I have counseled far more young men than I care to remember who have been victimized by religious leaders or people in leadership positions in the church. Many of the victims that I have counseled became perpetrators of the very horror that was inflicted upon them. In fact, 7 out of 10 sodomizers were sodomized in their pre-teen and teenage years by someone they trusted? So, when it comes to these young male victims of Eddie Long...Are you concerned about their healing? Or are you so blind that you think that these young men brought this on themselves and they got what they deserved?
This evening I was in a restaurant (not to far from Eddie Long's church) and overheard one lady say, "These young people today are so fast and loose that they probably brought this on themselves because Bishop is a man of God." I was glad that I had already eaten my meal because at that point I had to leave. This is why I am angry --- because of people like her who compulsively see Eddie Long as their Christ (even though they would never admit to such).
As previously stated, I have talked to several people who have first-hand knowledge of the events and tragedies that have been taking place at New Birth for "at least 15 years or more" (to quote a former member). So, I am not writing this without a strong base here. Not too long ago, I spoke with a person who shared with me how a particular young male (that we both know) "travels with Bishop (Long)." When she told me this, IMMEDIATELY my intuition said, "not good." But I couldn't say anything to her because she is a proud member of New Birth and she loves her "Bishop." She was so proud over the fact that this young person "travels with Bishop" that if I had shared with her what was taking place in my intuition she would have seen me as the enemy.
People, what have we become? When a religious leader can build and establish an academy (that seems to me to be nothing more than a facade for a breeding ground) that grooms young males to live on the down low...what have we become? What about the single mothers who entrusted their teenage sons to an academy with a sexual predator at the helm (along with those who work with him); all the while hoping that her son will receive the guidance and support that he needs to become a young "man," but instead he is preyed upon by someone who strategically gains the trust of her innocent teenage son, only to pounce on him when the time is right, while showering him with a Range Rover, a BMW, a Hummer, a condominium, expensive jewelry, and inter-continental trips where this predator commits all kinds of unthinkable sexual acts on these teenage males? And then we dare to vilify these young victims? What have we become? What happened to us?
At present, FOUR different young men have come forth! Are all of these young males lying? Why would they do that? People it is no secret (at least here in the Atlanta area) that New Birth Baptist Church is the "palace of homosexuality" (to quote another former member)!
TAKE THE BLINDERS OFF YOUR EYES! FOR THE SAKE OF OUR YOUTH...PLEASE TAKE THE BLINDERS OFF YOUR EYES!!! How many more teenagers will have to come forth before you realize that you have been under the leadership of a sexual predator on our children? How many? Will 1 more do? Or maybe 2 more? How many? So that you can say to each other, "Well, you know, Bishop said he wasn't perfect." Next, you will be saying if he is that way, his behavior is covered under the blood of Jesus Christ! After all, that IS what is taught in Christianity! ALL your sins (oral sodomy, child molestation, sexual coercion, etc.) have been covered by the blood and "there is therefore now no condemnation" (judgment) because he has been "justified by faith." I bet if it happens to your child all of those bible verses will completely disappear and become absolutely meaningless.
Parents, if you don't wake up and open your eyes, you will have no one to blame but yourselves. Our children deserve to be protected better than this. What are we to do, when our children think that we are NOT going to protect them? But rather attack them, and assassinate their character because they have been victimized by a sick, twisted, socially and politically powerful religious leader, who is a multimillionaire with friends in high places. Do we just throw them away because they are unknown and insignificant young people? Do we just let them suffer without coming to their rescue? If that is the case, then be prepared for damnation (because you will certainly deserve it)!
Let me warn you now! If we do not hear the cry of these young people who have been victimized by (what is in my opinion) a cross-wearing sexual predator, then stand by and prepare yourself for their retribution. Imagine what might happen when their anger can no longer be contained because they lived with the agony of after having opened up and asked us to protect them...we didn't!
In my previous post I stated that the rippling effect of this matter with Eddie Long is far reaching. The tentacles of this sickness are not just limited to Eddie Long, but several other prominent and renown religious leaders and gospel musicians as well. I encourage you to listen to Carlton Pearson's interview on CNN about this matter and homosexuality in the church. Carlton Pearson (who knows Eddie Long quite well) stated, "Bishop Long is just the tip of the iceberg." He actually said that! Listen to the interview for yourself at: http://newsroom.blogs.cnn.com/2010/09/27/pastor-preaches-inclusion-of-gays/?iref=allsearch or go to: cnn.com and type in the search box "Pastor Preaches Inclusion Of Gays."
As Eddie Long concluded his comments, he said (a second time) "I am not a perfect man, but this thing, I'm gonna fight;" and everyone leaped to their feet cheering him on. Then he said, "I feel like David fighting Goliath. And I've got 5 stones and I haven't thrown the first one yet." Then he arrogantly threw the microphone down and walked off the stage. The congregation was about to go into conniptions at that point. I wanted to know who was thinking about the innocent victims and their families?
Let me tell you my version of David & Goliath in this matter. I submit that the giant, "Goliath," is Eddie Long! For he's the one who is so powerful, with plenty of money for the best lawyers, influence with the right people, and fame that makes others not see him for what he really is. Yes...Eddie Long is the giant in THIS situation. The young men who don't have 25,000 members to stand with them are "David" (in my mind). And according to the story, David picked up "5 smooth [young] stones" to slay Goliath with. Well, maybe when the next victim comes forth...that will be the fifth stone for this Goliath known as Eddie Long.
As Carlton Pearson made VERY clear in his interview, Eddie Long is just "the tip of the iceberg" of the homosexuality in the church (and he certainly would know). But, personally, I am not concerned with what gay adult men and women do with each other. That's their business. As long as they don't present it to me, we won't have a problem. But under NO circumstances should we tolerate our youth being victimized by such activity without maximum retaliation (from the warriors in our communities) against the perpetrator(s). If we don't come to the defense of our children...who will!
Monday, September 27, 2010, 10:36:35 PM Ray Hagins
Sunday I tuned in (as did thousands of others) to hear what Eddie Long was going to say. After having to watch more than an hour of what I didn't tune in for, he finally emerged with his wife. This, in and of itself (in my opinion), was an act of disrespect to the thousands of people who were there because (if we would be honest) EVERYONE wanted to hear only one thing...and one thing only...and that was what they had waited all week to hear him say. This man talked for almost 25 minutes and STILL DID NOT SAY the 4 words that his audience was craving to hear. He knew that these thousands of people, who love him and arrived as early as 5:00 a.m., stood in line for hours to be sure to get a seat up close and personal. They did not come to hear a sermon! All they wanted to hear him say was..."I DIDN'T DO IT!" If he had said just those 4 words, his followers would have left with the strength and determination to stand with their leader. BUT HE DID NOT SAY IT! And based on what I have come to learn...HE COULDN'T SAY IT!
As I watched and listened to Eddie Long making his comments to (as he said) "the world," I was absolutely infuriated by the words that he had the unmitigated audacity to say. After a rambling discourse on "How To Handle Painful and Difficult Situations," this person opened his mouth and said, "I have never in my life presented myself as a perfect man." WHAT!?!?
It's real simple Eddie Long! You have been accused of molesting 4 young males. (Only you and God know how many others. According to discussions that I have had with people who are very close to this situation and its history, it is expected to be as many as 35 to 40 others who are expected to come forth. But, FOR NOW, it is only 4!) And the first thing out of your mouth is..."I have never presented myself to be a perfect man!?!?!?" It would have been more appreciated and not as insulting to our intellect if you had pleaded the 5th and said, "Due to the fact that this matter is in litigation, I decline to make any statements at this time on the grounds that it might incriminate me." At least that would have been a more intelligent statement than..."I am not a perfect man." Eddie Long incriminated himself with those words alone and everyone knows it!
Now, let's deal with the words "a perfect man" for a moment...
According to the theological perspectives that are taught in Christianity, the idea or concept of being "perfect" (teleios) means being "full grown, adult, of full age, mature." It has absolutely nothing to do with being flawless. So, by saying "I am not a perfect man," Eddie Long is saying that he is NOT "full grown, adult, of full age, mature?" According to the precepts of theological thought, the very position that Eddie Long (and every other pastor) holds mandates him to be "perfect" (teleios). Now, Eddie Long (as well as every other pastor) is fully aware of what I just explained in this paragraph. The average church member may not know this...but pastors do! So, his own words have disqualified him to hold the position that he now holds.
Furthermore, we all need to understand that there is not a "man" on this planet who, if accused of molesting 4 male youth, would not IMMEDIATELY say, "I did NOT do that." He would say this first and foremost...NOT..."I am not a perfect man!" Come on people, if you would only stop idolizing for 3 seconds, your spirit would say to you, "there's something wrong here, and it's not these young males who have filed these charges."
Now, with reference to these young male victims (because this article is really not about Eddie Long), let's take a closer look at these young males and the unjust attacks of "church folks" toward them! All eyes are on Eddie Long...but what about the young males who have come forth and unveiled the embarrassing, horrific, tragic, and damaging acts committed against them? What about the emotional and spiritual state and well being of these young males? How dare ANYONE say..."WE ARE WITH YOU BISHOP?" Who is with these young male victims? I have heard people (young and old) in support of Eddie Long say, "I believe him" or "That man loves his wife" or "We shouldn't be judging him." WHO IS SHOWING SUPPORT FOR THE YOUNG MALES WHOSE LIVES HAVE BEEN PERMANENTLY DAMAGED BY THIS PREDATOR? WHY AREN'T YOU "SAINTS" REACHING OUT TO THEM AND THEIR FAMILIES? WHAT IS WRONG WITH YOU! THESE ARE OUR CHILDREN! WHAT ARE YOU GOING TO DO IF AND WHEN YOU FIND OUT THAT ONE OF HIS VICTIMS WAS YOUR SON OR GRANDSON? (Okay, let me stop shouting...)
As a pastor and therapist, I have counseled far more young men than I care to remember who have been victimized by religious leaders or people in leadership positions in the church. Many of the victims that I have counseled became perpetrators of the very horror that was inflicted upon them. In fact, 7 out of 10 sodomizers were sodomized in their pre-teen and teenage years by someone they trusted? So, when it comes to these young male victims of Eddie Long...Are you concerned about their healing? Or are you so blind that you think that these young men brought this on themselves and they got what they deserved?
This evening I was in a restaurant (not to far from Eddie Long's church) and overheard one lady say, "These young people today are so fast and loose that they probably brought this on themselves because Bishop is a man of God." I was glad that I had already eaten my meal because at that point I had to leave. This is why I am angry --- because of people like her who compulsively see Eddie Long as their Christ (even though they would never admit to such).
As previously stated, I have talked to several people who have first-hand knowledge of the events and tragedies that have been taking place at New Birth for "at least 15 years or more" (to quote a former member). So, I am not writing this without a strong base here. Not too long ago, I spoke with a person who shared with me how a particular young male (that we both know) "travels with Bishop (Long)." When she told me this, IMMEDIATELY my intuition said, "not good." But I couldn't say anything to her because she is a proud member of New Birth and she loves her "Bishop." She was so proud over the fact that this young person "travels with Bishop" that if I had shared with her what was taking place in my intuition she would have seen me as the enemy.
People, what have we become? When a religious leader can build and establish an academy (that seems to me to be nothing more than a facade for a breeding ground) that grooms young males to live on the down low...what have we become? What about the single mothers who entrusted their teenage sons to an academy with a sexual predator at the helm (along with those who work with him); all the while hoping that her son will receive the guidance and support that he needs to become a young "man," but instead he is preyed upon by someone who strategically gains the trust of her innocent teenage son, only to pounce on him when the time is right, while showering him with a Range Rover, a BMW, a Hummer, a condominium, expensive jewelry, and inter-continental trips where this predator commits all kinds of unthinkable sexual acts on these teenage males? And then we dare to vilify these young victims? What have we become? What happened to us?
At present, FOUR different young men have come forth! Are all of these young males lying? Why would they do that? People it is no secret (at least here in the Atlanta area) that New Birth Baptist Church is the "palace of homosexuality" (to quote another former member)!
TAKE THE BLINDERS OFF YOUR EYES! FOR THE SAKE OF OUR YOUTH...PLEASE TAKE THE BLINDERS OFF YOUR EYES!!! How many more teenagers will have to come forth before you realize that you have been under the leadership of a sexual predator on our children? How many? Will 1 more do? Or maybe 2 more? How many? So that you can say to each other, "Well, you know, Bishop said he wasn't perfect." Next, you will be saying if he is that way, his behavior is covered under the blood of Jesus Christ! After all, that IS what is taught in Christianity! ALL your sins (oral sodomy, child molestation, sexual coercion, etc.) have been covered by the blood and "there is therefore now no condemnation" (judgment) because he has been "justified by faith." I bet if it happens to your child all of those bible verses will completely disappear and become absolutely meaningless.
Parents, if you don't wake up and open your eyes, you will have no one to blame but yourselves. Our children deserve to be protected better than this. What are we to do, when our children think that we are NOT going to protect them? But rather attack them, and assassinate their character because they have been victimized by a sick, twisted, socially and politically powerful religious leader, who is a multimillionaire with friends in high places. Do we just throw them away because they are unknown and insignificant young people? Do we just let them suffer without coming to their rescue? If that is the case, then be prepared for damnation (because you will certainly deserve it)!
Let me warn you now! If we do not hear the cry of these young people who have been victimized by (what is in my opinion) a cross-wearing sexual predator, then stand by and prepare yourself for their retribution. Imagine what might happen when their anger can no longer be contained because they lived with the agony of after having opened up and asked us to protect them...we didn't!
In my previous post I stated that the rippling effect of this matter with Eddie Long is far reaching. The tentacles of this sickness are not just limited to Eddie Long, but several other prominent and renown religious leaders and gospel musicians as well. I encourage you to listen to Carlton Pearson's interview on CNN about this matter and homosexuality in the church. Carlton Pearson (who knows Eddie Long quite well) stated, "Bishop Long is just the tip of the iceberg." He actually said that! Listen to the interview for yourself at: http://newsroom.blogs.cnn.com/2010/09/27/pastor-preaches-inclusion-of-gays/?iref=allsearch or go to: cnn.com and type in the search box "Pastor Preaches Inclusion Of Gays."
As Eddie Long concluded his comments, he said (a second time) "I am not a perfect man, but this thing, I'm gonna fight;" and everyone leaped to their feet cheering him on. Then he said, "I feel like David fighting Goliath. And I've got 5 stones and I haven't thrown the first one yet." Then he arrogantly threw the microphone down and walked off the stage. The congregation was about to go into conniptions at that point. I wanted to know who was thinking about the innocent victims and their families?
Let me tell you my version of David & Goliath in this matter. I submit that the giant, "Goliath," is Eddie Long! For he's the one who is so powerful, with plenty of money for the best lawyers, influence with the right people, and fame that makes others not see him for what he really is. Yes...Eddie Long is the giant in THIS situation. The young men who don't have 25,000 members to stand with them are "David" (in my mind). And according to the story, David picked up "5 smooth [young] stones" to slay Goliath with. Well, maybe when the next victim comes forth...that will be the fifth stone for this Goliath known as Eddie Long.
As Carlton Pearson made VERY clear in his interview, Eddie Long is just "the tip of the iceberg" of the homosexuality in the church (and he certainly would know). But, personally, I am not concerned with what gay adult men and women do with each other. That's their business. As long as they don't present it to me, we won't have a problem. But under NO circumstances should we tolerate our youth being victimized by such activity without maximum retaliation (from the warriors in our communities) against the perpetrator(s). If we don't come to the defense of our children...who will!
Sick, Church, Sex "Stuff" (Eddie Long)
How Deep Does This Hole Go?
by Ray Hagins on Wednesday, September 29, 2010 at 10:05am
I have received numerous email, inquiries and comments about my posts concerning this matter with Eddie Long. Most have been “thank you” notes for expressing what they have been feeling for so long. A few have been rebukes for being what they consider to be “judgmental” on my part.
The reason why I have spent such an inordinate amount of time on this issue is because I am glad that it is coming out! I am saddened for the victims of this predator, but I am so glad that this is coming to the forefront so that people can begin to see things as they really are. Unfortunately, many will choose NOT to see because of the love that they have for their leaders. There is an adage that says, “There is none so blind as he who WILL NOT see!” I fear that this will be the case for many.
This is a very sensitive area for me primarily for 2 reasons: (1) As a PK (pastor’s kid) I grew up around and saw so much of this kind of mess in the church that it sickens me. (2) As a clinician and therapist I have to deal with trying to heal many of the victims of such predatory behavior. There is not a month that goes by that I don’t get calls from someone who was victimized by someone they trusted. Many of the people that I treat are suffering repressed traumatic syndrome that is now beginning to surface from stuff that happened years ago. 40% of people that come to me were sexually assaulted by their pastor, their youth leader or the minister of music at some point in their lives. So, when this matter of Eddie Long became public it gave me the opportunity to express and release what I have kept bottled up in me for years due to my obligation to the rules of confidentiality.
I will never forget one Monday morning in March of 2005, a pastor called me and said, "I believe God has cursed my ministry." I asked her why she would think such a thing. She said, "Because of the things that happened in my church, that I should have addressed... but I didn't! And now sickness and disease is running wild in my church." Being the kind of woman she was (she is now deceased), she didn’t want to hurt anyone and was under the pressure of not knowing how to handle the issue of homosexuality in her congregation. Several parents had come to her because the minister of music had molested their sons. Not wanting to lose her minister of music or cause harm and embarrassment to anyone, she told the parents, "Let's pray about it and let the Lord handle this." Needless to say, each of those parents removed their membership from the church. The minister of music, his wife, and several of his victims and partners have since died from AIDS.
I could hear the stress in that pastor’s voice from having carried this emotional load of “if only I had done this or that.” I tried to give effective counsel, but I could hear that it was eating away at her. April 2, 2005 she suffered a massive aneurysm and passed away several days later.
I also knew of pastors who had a "collection" of males and females that they not only use in a twisted sexual manner, but offered them to their guest ministers to "service" or "accommodate" them while they are in town. So, understand, I didn't leave the church only because the doctrine was wrong; another reason I left is because I got fed up with having to encounter gay pastors and bishops everywhere I went.
As a national evangelist in a major Pentecostal denomination, state minister of music, and gospel recording artist I have seen it all…up close and personal and it is sickening. To this day I cannot listen to many of the most popular gospel artists because I know them and what they do when they are not on stage. I thank God (with all my being) for putting a fence of protection around me by not getting involved and caught up in that mess.
When I returned to the pulpit by accepting the position of "pastor" of the congregation where I now serve, I was reminded of this sickness that I had been out of the presence of for more than 5 years. At first I was welcomed into the fellowship of pastors in St. Louis. This one pastor took me around and introduced me to all the prominent pastors in the area. Then I began to notice that all of the pastors that he was introducing me to were gay! So, I thought I had better drop a hint on him (just in case he was gay) that I don't play that. He said to me, "Dr. Hagins you need to know these men that I'm introducing you to because this is St. Louis man, and you need to know the right people here."
A couple of weeks later, I was invited to a ministers meeting at this same pastor's office. Being that I had video production equipment he asked me if I would make copies of the video that he was going to show at this meeting for the other pastors. I told him that I would. I was thinking that we were going to meet about developing pastoral skills, community development, perhaps a coalition endeavor, or something like that. When I arrived at this pastor’s church, about 12 of St. Louis' PROMINENT Black pastors were there (all dressed down and relaxed). After about 20 minutes the host pastor said, "We'll brethren let’s get started, and he walked over to the VHS player and put in a tape. I was SHOCKED when I saw the title come across the screen. "Big, Black, and Long." I mean a XXX rated video! I thought to myself, "What the _____ is this? A few minutes later my pager went off and I told them that I had to leave. I later confronted the host pastor about this and explained to him that we have no further reason to fellowship. These were all Black Baptist pastors! This happened in August of 1998.
In October of 1998 the mayor of St. Louis had a meeting in his office with the clergy coalition (of which I was a member). As we were leaving the mayor's office, one of St. Louis’ most prominent Black pastors said to me in the elevator, "Dr. Hagins, we would like to meet with you." I asked, "About what?" He then told me that this pastor (who had hosted this XXX rated video meeting) felt that we should meet at his office to discuss what I am teaching in my pulpit. I told him that they didn't have anything to do with that because it's my pulpit and I will teach what I will.
These Black pastors in St. Louis (led by the same man who hosted this XXX rated video meeting) met and came against me to try to have me removed from my church. I was told by the pastor who spoke to me in the elevator that I would find myself “isolated from the clergy community" in St. Louis. And that is exactly how it has been since then. ALL of the Black pastors in St. Louis began to tell their congregations to avoid going over to New Ephesus (at that time) --- a stigma that we still suffer from today. Unfortunately, in St. Louis, The Afrikan Village has been so vilified by other Black pastors that it is difficult for us to grow as I would like for us to. But so be it!
Again, I MUST refer you to Carlton Pearson's words when he said on CNN that, "Eddie Long is just the tip of the iceberg." He was trying to tell everybody how deep this hole goes, but I don’t think people really want to see it. After you read this article, cut and paste the following link to see Bishop Pearson’s interview about gays in the church. His statement about Eddie Long is near the end of the interview. http://newsroom.blogs.cnn.com/2010/09/27/pastor-preaches-inclusion-of-gays/
The entire reason why I had to begin using a security team is because Black PASTORS were threatening to stop me "one way or another." People this is much more serious than many people realize. There is a strong fraternity (for a lack of a better word) among these Black pastors who are into this activity. But then again, that's the warfare!
[SPECIAL NOTE: I need to say at this point, that not all pastors are participants in this type of behavior. I am so glad that I know many more pastors who are good, honest and sincere men and women than I know those who are mentally sick. So, please do not think that ALL pastors are no good and can’t be trusted.]
When I wrote the oath to the Ancestors (that we recite in The Afrikan Village every time we gather for fellowship), I included the following words:
"O Ancestors...Now, stand with us; strengthen us; guide us; teach us, and protect us from the snare of our enemies! Rise up, O Afrikan Ancestors, and let our enemies be scattered! And give us the wisdom and the boldness to deal with our oppressors and THOSE WHO WOULD HINDER THE LIBERATION AND EMPOWERMENT OF OUR PEOPLE. Rise up, O Afrikan Ancestors, and live in us. We will not fail to honor you; We will not fail to respect you; We will not fail to hear you; And we will NOT betray you! Ase." (for those who would like a copy of our Oath To The Ancestors I will post it under another cover).
When I wrote these words I wasn't talking about white people (as many people think)! I was talking about the Eddie Longs and other prominent bishops, pastors and leaders among us who are hindering the liberation and empowerment of our people.
How deep does this hole go? Much deeper than many church folks are ready to know.
by Ray Hagins on Wednesday, September 29, 2010 at 10:05am
I have received numerous email, inquiries and comments about my posts concerning this matter with Eddie Long. Most have been “thank you” notes for expressing what they have been feeling for so long. A few have been rebukes for being what they consider to be “judgmental” on my part.
The reason why I have spent such an inordinate amount of time on this issue is because I am glad that it is coming out! I am saddened for the victims of this predator, but I am so glad that this is coming to the forefront so that people can begin to see things as they really are. Unfortunately, many will choose NOT to see because of the love that they have for their leaders. There is an adage that says, “There is none so blind as he who WILL NOT see!” I fear that this will be the case for many.
This is a very sensitive area for me primarily for 2 reasons: (1) As a PK (pastor’s kid) I grew up around and saw so much of this kind of mess in the church that it sickens me. (2) As a clinician and therapist I have to deal with trying to heal many of the victims of such predatory behavior. There is not a month that goes by that I don’t get calls from someone who was victimized by someone they trusted. Many of the people that I treat are suffering repressed traumatic syndrome that is now beginning to surface from stuff that happened years ago. 40% of people that come to me were sexually assaulted by their pastor, their youth leader or the minister of music at some point in their lives. So, when this matter of Eddie Long became public it gave me the opportunity to express and release what I have kept bottled up in me for years due to my obligation to the rules of confidentiality.
I will never forget one Monday morning in March of 2005, a pastor called me and said, "I believe God has cursed my ministry." I asked her why she would think such a thing. She said, "Because of the things that happened in my church, that I should have addressed... but I didn't! And now sickness and disease is running wild in my church." Being the kind of woman she was (she is now deceased), she didn’t want to hurt anyone and was under the pressure of not knowing how to handle the issue of homosexuality in her congregation. Several parents had come to her because the minister of music had molested their sons. Not wanting to lose her minister of music or cause harm and embarrassment to anyone, she told the parents, "Let's pray about it and let the Lord handle this." Needless to say, each of those parents removed their membership from the church. The minister of music, his wife, and several of his victims and partners have since died from AIDS.
I could hear the stress in that pastor’s voice from having carried this emotional load of “if only I had done this or that.” I tried to give effective counsel, but I could hear that it was eating away at her. April 2, 2005 she suffered a massive aneurysm and passed away several days later.
I also knew of pastors who had a "collection" of males and females that they not only use in a twisted sexual manner, but offered them to their guest ministers to "service" or "accommodate" them while they are in town. So, understand, I didn't leave the church only because the doctrine was wrong; another reason I left is because I got fed up with having to encounter gay pastors and bishops everywhere I went.
As a national evangelist in a major Pentecostal denomination, state minister of music, and gospel recording artist I have seen it all…up close and personal and it is sickening. To this day I cannot listen to many of the most popular gospel artists because I know them and what they do when they are not on stage. I thank God (with all my being) for putting a fence of protection around me by not getting involved and caught up in that mess.
When I returned to the pulpit by accepting the position of "pastor" of the congregation where I now serve, I was reminded of this sickness that I had been out of the presence of for more than 5 years. At first I was welcomed into the fellowship of pastors in St. Louis. This one pastor took me around and introduced me to all the prominent pastors in the area. Then I began to notice that all of the pastors that he was introducing me to were gay! So, I thought I had better drop a hint on him (just in case he was gay) that I don't play that. He said to me, "Dr. Hagins you need to know these men that I'm introducing you to because this is St. Louis man, and you need to know the right people here."
A couple of weeks later, I was invited to a ministers meeting at this same pastor's office. Being that I had video production equipment he asked me if I would make copies of the video that he was going to show at this meeting for the other pastors. I told him that I would. I was thinking that we were going to meet about developing pastoral skills, community development, perhaps a coalition endeavor, or something like that. When I arrived at this pastor’s church, about 12 of St. Louis' PROMINENT Black pastors were there (all dressed down and relaxed). After about 20 minutes the host pastor said, "We'll brethren let’s get started, and he walked over to the VHS player and put in a tape. I was SHOCKED when I saw the title come across the screen. "Big, Black, and Long." I mean a XXX rated video! I thought to myself, "What the _____ is this? A few minutes later my pager went off and I told them that I had to leave. I later confronted the host pastor about this and explained to him that we have no further reason to fellowship. These were all Black Baptist pastors! This happened in August of 1998.
In October of 1998 the mayor of St. Louis had a meeting in his office with the clergy coalition (of which I was a member). As we were leaving the mayor's office, one of St. Louis’ most prominent Black pastors said to me in the elevator, "Dr. Hagins, we would like to meet with you." I asked, "About what?" He then told me that this pastor (who had hosted this XXX rated video meeting) felt that we should meet at his office to discuss what I am teaching in my pulpit. I told him that they didn't have anything to do with that because it's my pulpit and I will teach what I will.
These Black pastors in St. Louis (led by the same man who hosted this XXX rated video meeting) met and came against me to try to have me removed from my church. I was told by the pastor who spoke to me in the elevator that I would find myself “isolated from the clergy community" in St. Louis. And that is exactly how it has been since then. ALL of the Black pastors in St. Louis began to tell their congregations to avoid going over to New Ephesus (at that time) --- a stigma that we still suffer from today. Unfortunately, in St. Louis, The Afrikan Village has been so vilified by other Black pastors that it is difficult for us to grow as I would like for us to. But so be it!
Again, I MUST refer you to Carlton Pearson's words when he said on CNN that, "Eddie Long is just the tip of the iceberg." He was trying to tell everybody how deep this hole goes, but I don’t think people really want to see it. After you read this article, cut and paste the following link to see Bishop Pearson’s interview about gays in the church. His statement about Eddie Long is near the end of the interview. http://newsroom.blogs.cnn.com/2010/09/27/pastor-preaches-inclusion-of-gays/
The entire reason why I had to begin using a security team is because Black PASTORS were threatening to stop me "one way or another." People this is much more serious than many people realize. There is a strong fraternity (for a lack of a better word) among these Black pastors who are into this activity. But then again, that's the warfare!
[SPECIAL NOTE: I need to say at this point, that not all pastors are participants in this type of behavior. I am so glad that I know many more pastors who are good, honest and sincere men and women than I know those who are mentally sick. So, please do not think that ALL pastors are no good and can’t be trusted.]
When I wrote the oath to the Ancestors (that we recite in The Afrikan Village every time we gather for fellowship), I included the following words:
"O Ancestors...Now, stand with us; strengthen us; guide us; teach us, and protect us from the snare of our enemies! Rise up, O Afrikan Ancestors, and let our enemies be scattered! And give us the wisdom and the boldness to deal with our oppressors and THOSE WHO WOULD HINDER THE LIBERATION AND EMPOWERMENT OF OUR PEOPLE. Rise up, O Afrikan Ancestors, and live in us. We will not fail to honor you; We will not fail to respect you; We will not fail to hear you; And we will NOT betray you! Ase." (for those who would like a copy of our Oath To The Ancestors I will post it under another cover).
When I wrote these words I wasn't talking about white people (as many people think)! I was talking about the Eddie Longs and other prominent bishops, pastors and leaders among us who are hindering the liberation and empowerment of our people.
How deep does this hole go? Much deeper than many church folks are ready to know.
Wednesday, September 29, 2010
Church "Stuff" (Eddie Long)
Pastor accuser: Sex encounters on church grounds
Published September 29, 2010 Associated Press
One of four men accusing megachurch Bishop Eddie Long of coercing them into inappropriate sexual relationships said in a TV interview that aired Wednesday that he and the pastor would have encounters before and after worship services on church grounds.
Published September 29, 2010 Associated Press
One of four men accusing megachurch Bishop Eddie Long of coercing them into inappropriate sexual relationships said in a TV interview that aired Wednesday that he and the pastor would have encounters before and after worship services on church grounds.
Jamal Parris, 22, told Fox TV affiliate WAGA that they engaged in sexual acts at Long's home, in his car and his office at New Birth Missionary Baptist Church in surburban Atlanta, similar to claims he made in his lawsuit last week.
The Atlanta station is airing its interview with Parris, done outside a convenience store in Colorado, over several days.
In the segment Tuesday, Parris said he loved the pastor and considered him a father figure, but still called him a "predator" and a "monster." The four men, all former members of New Birth, say they were teenagers when Long enticed them with clothes, cars, cash and lavish trips to lure them into sexual relationships.
"You can't believe the place you are at in your life and the things you are doing and the cars you are driving, and the people you are meeting," Parris said. "So, it becomes, if I want to continue to feel this love and this power, I'll do whatever my dad wants me to."
Long's spokesman Art Franklin had no comment on the latest interview.
Parris said he and the others tried to deal with the situation outside of court. In June, he said he reached out to other "spiritual sons" about the alleged abuse.
"All we wanted to do was talk and just say, 'Help me with this hurt that you caused,'" Parris said. "And he had no sense of reverence, guilt, or remorse. So if you are not going to deal with us privately, then you are going to have to sit down publicly, one way or the other. But you are not going to hurt another young man another day in our lives."
Also Wednesday, Spencer LeGrande told WSB-TV in Atlanta that he has been free since filing his lawsuit against Long. He says he has no hate for anyone and is praying for Long whom he says "knows the truth" about what happened.
During services at his church Sunday, Long turned to biblical terms to portray himself as an underdog but didn't outright deny the allegations.
"I feel like David against Goliath. But I got five rocks, and I haven't thrown one yet," said Long, who added that while he doesn't claim to be perfect, "I am not the man that's being portrayed on the television."
LeGrande, Parris, Maurice Robinson and Anthony Flagg are suing Long in state court. The Associated Press has tried to reach the men but calls have not been returned.
Parris was 14 and his father had not been a good figure in his life when he joined New Birth in 2001. Within two weeks, Long gave him his personal cell phone number, the lawsuit said. On many Sundays after church, Parris would visit Long's private office at the pastor's request.
Parris said Long encouraged the young man to call him "Daddy," and that they eventually engaged in sexual acts. Long "would discuss the Holy Scripture to justify and support the sexual activity," the lawsuit said.
Parris in Tuesday's segment described an ongoing emotional struggle.
"I cannot get the sound of his voice out of my head and I cannot forget the smell of his cologne and I cannot forget the way he made me cry many nights when I drove in his cars on the way home," Parris said. "I'm not able to take enough showers to wipe the smell of him off my body."
LeGrande was 15 when he joined New Birth Charlotte during the church's first service in 2003 at North Mecklenburg High School, Long's alma mater. In 2005, LeGrande saw Long deliver a sermon with the theme of forgiving absentee fathers and "was personally moved by Defendant Long's sermon, as his father had not been a part of his life."
LeGrande was 15 when he joined New Birth Charlotte during the church's first service in 2003 at North Mecklenburg High School, Long's alma mater. In 2005, LeGrande saw Long deliver a sermon with the theme of forgiving absentee fathers and "was personally moved by Defendant Long's sermon, as his father had not been a part of his life."
LeGrande met Long after the sermon and began to cry when the pastor hugged him. Long responded, "I got you. I will be your dad."
Long and LeGrande began talking on the telephone and he also was encouraged to call the preacher dad. LeGrande accompanied Long on a trip to Nairobi, Kenya, where he said Long kissed him and rubbed his chest.
Tuesday, September 28, 2010
Church "Stuff" (Eddie Long's cuzin' Rody Long)
Gays in Gospel Music 1 of 3
Go to YouTube to see others
Church "Stuff" (Eddie Long's cuzin' droppin' dime)
Response:
It is with great sorrow and concern that we response to this latest news. Many of you know that I am related to Bishop Eddie Long and I am very concerned about the recent developments- yet not surprised. For years we have known that this was happening. Of course, as you can imagine, because of my stance on Homosexuality, I am very distant from many of my relatives in “Main-stream” ministry. We have prayed for these guys – some of them we have spoken to directly about this secret sin in “the family” (Eddie is not the only one) but to no avail. My heart has already wept for them years ago, but now my heart weeps for you, the public…because now you know what we knew for years but could not publicly say. There was one young man who came out years ago who also made allegations. He shared that Jakes, Long, and others had a sex-ring of young men that they flew around the country to do favors for them and their friends. After he started talking, he was mysteriously beaten up, and then the Minister (a personal friend of mine) who was in contact with the young man all of a sudden lost contact. People if all of this is true – this is foul. Yet God never leaves his people in the dark…some of you remember that a little over a month ago in our daily word we said this:
It is with great sorrow and concern that we response to this latest news. Many of you know that I am related to Bishop Eddie Long and I am very concerned about the recent developments- yet not surprised. For years we have known that this was happening. Of course, as you can imagine, because of my stance on Homosexuality, I am very distant from many of my relatives in “Main-stream” ministry. We have prayed for these guys – some of them we have spoken to directly about this secret sin in “the family” (Eddie is not the only one) but to no avail. My heart has already wept for them years ago, but now my heart weeps for you, the public…because now you know what we knew for years but could not publicly say. There was one young man who came out years ago who also made allegations. He shared that Jakes, Long, and others had a sex-ring of young men that they flew around the country to do favors for them and their friends. After he started talking, he was mysteriously beaten up, and then the Minister (a personal friend of mine) who was in contact with the young man all of a sudden lost contact. People if all of this is true – this is foul. Yet God never leaves his people in the dark…some of you remember that a little over a month ago in our daily word we said this:
July 2010
God seems to have a progression when it comes to Judgement. First there is minimal disclosure so that a person can repent. What I mean is that God protects His people from public embarrassment by only exposing these people to, usually, a few discreet people who can go to them, warn them and possibly restore them. Folks, most of the people that many of you love and adore in Gospel Music or in Preaching ministry – are foul. Some of them I know personally and others I know of who have been involved in sin so depraved that it would make some of you vomit. Yet, why hasn’t God publicly exposed or judged them yet? Because He is merciful and full of Grace. There are some very great people – that God had me personally go to and warn – some listened (Glory to God!) but most of them didn’t.The next stage is exposure to all spiritual Christians. Years ago I would tell my wife there was something wrong with T. D. Jakes and the turns he was making. Hardly anybody recognized it back then – I know several people that have warned him – G. Craige being one. But he didn’t listen. Now it seems almost anybody who is spiritual is picking up on what Jakes is doing. Now the last stage of judgment if a person doesn’t repent during the first two stages is public humiliation -everybody knows your sin. God strips you of everything and He judges you openly. Folks I have seen this happen over, and over.
August 5, 2010
…Almost always, by the time you see a pastor on the news or he loses his church you can be certain – that this was probably not his first, second, or third time – but he was a repeat offender who ignored clear warnings from God, and wouldn’t repent. The difference between the leaders that salvage their ministries and those that lose them seems to be in this: One Pastor is so remorseful that He exposes himself to his wife and close circle; but the other Pastor keeps doing it until he is caught. By the time most leaders lose their ministry they have been warned several of times – but they wouldn’t repent. I will say this prophetically there are some very Big Black TV Pastors that will be exposed for sexual sins in the near future.
I don’t glory in the sin or the exposure. But I do glory in the accuracy of the Spirit of God. Let’s all be praying for Bishop Eddie Long his wife Lady Vanessa his children but mostly all of the true Christians that this news will damage and all of the sinners this news will keep from the church. Also pray for the many victims of this type of sick activity by leaders in the black church—yall somebody is going to pay for all of the young people that have been molested and sodomized by these so called “Men of God.”
Until He Comes,
Rondy Long
Friday, September 24, 2010
Church "Stuff" (Eddie Long)
ATLANTA, Sept. 24, 2010
Eddie Long to Preach Sunday; Mum on Gay Sex Suit
Bishop Who Built an African-American Megachurch Empire In Ga., accused of Coercing 3 Male Teens into Sex
Bishop Long Scraps Interview, Repeats Denial
Bishop Eddie Long Faces 3rd Sex Coercion Lawsuit
(AP) The pastor of a nationally known Atlanta-area megachurch took other young men on trips as part of a mentoring program but stands by his denial of claims that he had sex with three of them, a lawyer for the religious leader said Thursday.
Bishop Long Scraps Interview, Repeats Denial
Bishop Eddie Long Faces 3rd Sex Coercion Lawsuit
(AP) The pastor of a nationally known Atlanta-area megachurch took other young men on trips as part of a mentoring program but stands by his denial of claims that he had sex with three of them, a lawyer for the religious leader said Thursday.
Bishop Eddie Long plans his first public response to the allegations Sunday during services at his 25,000-member church, attorney Craig Gillen said on the Tom Joyner Morning Show after Long canceled an interview with the nationally syndicated radio program.
In lawsuits filed this week, three men who were members of the New Birth Missionary Baptist Church claimed Long coerced them into sexual relations with gifts including cars, cash and travel when they were 17 or 18 years old.
The sprawling church in suburban Lithonia counts politicians, celebrities and the county sheriff among its members and hosted four U.S. presidents during the 2006 funeral of Rev. Martin Luther King Jr.'s widow, Coretta Scott King.
One of the claims in the lawsuits is that Long had sexual contact with the young men, who were enrolled in New Birth's ministry for teen boys, during trips he took them on in the U.S. and abroad. Gillen said the travel was part of a mentoring program that other young men also participated in. "The mentoring process involving travel is not exclusive to the three plaintiffs making these allegations," Gillen said.
Gillen also read a statement from Long in which the pastor, a married father of four, said he's anxious to respond to the allegations but that his lawyer has advised him not to yet. "Let me be clear. The charges against me and New Birth are false," Long's statement said.
Gillen also said the three making the allegations were motivated by money, adding that one of them is accused of breaking into Long's office.
In addition to canceling the radio show appearance, an expected Thursday news conference with Long was also called off. Gillen said Long will speak directly about the allegations to his church congregation Sunday.
B.J. Bernstein, an attorney representing the plaintiffs, said she opened her investigation after getting a call from one of the men.
The Associated Press normally does not name people who claim they are victims of sexual impropriety, but Bernstein said all three - Maurice Robinson, 20, Anthony Flagg, 21, and Jamal Parris, 23 - have consented to making their identities public.
Bernstein said she didn't trust local authorities to investigate the claims. "This is a really large church that's incredibly politically powerful," Bernstein said. "There are pictures of this guy with every politician around. With something this important, how can I trust that word didn't get back to the bishop?"
DeKalb County Sheriff Thomas Brown has been a member of New Birth for more than 15 years and sits on the advisory board for Long's Longfellows Youth Academy. He said he would stand by the bishop and bristled at Bernstein's suggestion that local authorities couldn't be trusted. "I take offense to that," he said. "It does not merit a dignified response."
Their pastor has been silent and so are most at Long's 25,000-strong church. But those who will speak say they are supporting him.
Lance Robertson, who joined New Birth nearly two decades ago and has coached youth basketball there, said Wednesday that members were hurting. "I support and will stand with my bishop, but right now in the court of public opinion, it does not look good," Robertson said. "This affects too many people. As the bishop goes, New Birth goes. He built New Birth."
Bernstein said that her case hinges on her three clients' testimony and that she doesn't have much physical evidence backing up her complaint. Long sent dozens of e-mails and phone calls to her clients, though they weren't "overly sexual," she said. Bernstein said she plans to subpoena records from Long that will show he traveled with the young men to New York, Las Vegas, New Zealand and elsewhere.
Robertson, the church's youth basketball coach, said he wants to hear Long respond to the accusations. Long was appointed pastor of New Birth in 1987 and built it up into a complex on 250 acres with a $50 million, 10,000-seat cathedral and more than 40 ministries. President George W. Bush and three former presidents attended the church's 2006 funeral service for Coretta Scott King. Long introduced the speakers and the Rev. Bernice King, the Kings' younger daughter, delivered the eulogy. She is also a pastor there. The church was among those named in 2007 in a Senate committee's investigation into a half-dozen Christian ministries over their financing. Long has called for a national ban on same-sex marriage. In 2004, he led a march with Bernice King to her father's Atlanta grave to support a national constitutional amendment to protect marriage "between one man and one woman."
This isn't the first allegation against a religious leader who has crusaded against gay marriage. Ted Haggard left New Life Church of Colorado Springs, Colo., in 2006 after a male prostitute said Haggard paid him for sex. Haggard denied the allegations but later admitted to "sexual immorality" and launched a new church in June 2010.
Sunday, May 31, 2009
Church "Stuff" (The Catholic priest fornicates with...)
Ok, the issue with this is not that he fell in love and was fornicating. The main issue is the sneaking and lying and having someone in sin with you when you know better. People leave the nunnery & priesthood everyday. If he decided that it was not for him, he should have quit.
People need to stop making excuses for others bad behavior.
Bill Clinton was almost impeached not for sex but for LYING under oath.
Fri May 29, 12:25 PM
MIAMI (Reuters) - A popular U.S. Roman Catholic priest photographed frolicking with a woman on a Florida beach announced Thursday he had joined the Episcopal Church to pursue the priesthood in a faith that allows married clergy.
"I've seen with my own eyes how many brothers of mine serve God as married men and with the blessing of having their own families," said Father Alberto Cutie, whose removal from his Miami Beach parish prompted public debate about the Catholic Church's celibacy requirement for priests.
The charismatic 40-year-old is a well-known religious leader in Miami who dispensed relationship advice on Spanish-language television shows, church radio programs and newspaper columns.
He was relieved of his duties at St. Francis de Sales parish in Miami Beach earlier this month after the entertainment magazine TVnotas published photos of him in swim trunks, snuggling and kissing a woman on the sands of a beach in Florida.
Cutie later said he had fallen in love with the woman and broken his vow of celibacy. He apologized for his behavior, but told the Univision Spanish-language television network, "I didn't stop being a man just because I put on a cassock. There are trousers under this cassock."
The woman in the photographs, identified in media reports as Ruhama Canellis, stood at Cutie's side as he held a news conference at Trinity Cathedral, where the couple underwent a ceremony to join the Episcopalians.
The Episcopalian church is part of the Anglican Communion, which traces its roots to the Church of England, formed when King Henry VIII split from the Roman Catholic Church in order to divorce and remarry.
The Episcopal church ordains men and women as priests, married or single, and has seen controversy within its own ranks for ordaining gay priests.
At his news conference, Cutie described his move as "going into a new family" and said he would continue to proclaim God's word. "I will always love the Catholic Church and all its members who are committed in their faith and have enriched my life in so many ways," he said.
Some Catholics expressed sympathy for Cutie and said it was time to end the celibacy rule. Others said that, given the recent scandals involving U.S. priests sexually abusing young boys, and Irish priests raping, flogging and enslaving children in Catholic schools, they were relieved that Cutie had merely become involved with an adult woman.
(Reporting by Jane Sutton and Tom Brown; Editing by Pascal Fletcher and Patricia Zengerle)
POSTED BY: Palm Leaf on SUN, MAY 31, 2009 11:20 PM -0500
People need to stop making excuses for others bad behavior.
Bill Clinton was almost impeached not for sex but for LYING under oath.
Fri May 29, 12:25 PM
MIAMI (Reuters) - A popular U.S. Roman Catholic priest photographed frolicking with a woman on a Florida beach announced Thursday he had joined the Episcopal Church to pursue the priesthood in a faith that allows married clergy.
"I've seen with my own eyes how many brothers of mine serve God as married men and with the blessing of having their own families," said Father Alberto Cutie, whose removal from his Miami Beach parish prompted public debate about the Catholic Church's celibacy requirement for priests.
The charismatic 40-year-old is a well-known religious leader in Miami who dispensed relationship advice on Spanish-language television shows, church radio programs and newspaper columns.
He was relieved of his duties at St. Francis de Sales parish in Miami Beach earlier this month after the entertainment magazine TVnotas published photos of him in swim trunks, snuggling and kissing a woman on the sands of a beach in Florida.
Cutie later said he had fallen in love with the woman and broken his vow of celibacy. He apologized for his behavior, but told the Univision Spanish-language television network, "I didn't stop being a man just because I put on a cassock. There are trousers under this cassock."
The woman in the photographs, identified in media reports as Ruhama Canellis, stood at Cutie's side as he held a news conference at Trinity Cathedral, where the couple underwent a ceremony to join the Episcopalians.
The Episcopalian church is part of the Anglican Communion, which traces its roots to the Church of England, formed when King Henry VIII split from the Roman Catholic Church in order to divorce and remarry.
The Episcopal church ordains men and women as priests, married or single, and has seen controversy within its own ranks for ordaining gay priests.
At his news conference, Cutie described his move as "going into a new family" and said he would continue to proclaim God's word. "I will always love the Catholic Church and all its members who are committed in their faith and have enriched my life in so many ways," he said.
Some Catholics expressed sympathy for Cutie and said it was time to end the celibacy rule. Others said that, given the recent scandals involving U.S. priests sexually abusing young boys, and Irish priests raping, flogging and enslaving children in Catholic schools, they were relieved that Cutie had merely become involved with an adult woman.
(Reporting by Jane Sutton and Tom Brown; Editing by Pascal Fletcher and Patricia Zengerle)
POSTED BY: Palm Leaf on SUN, MAY 31, 2009 11:20 PM -0500
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