Ga. megachurch pastor accused in sex scandal: All must face distasteful, painful situations

Ga. megachurch pastor: All face painful situations

LITHONIA, Ga. — The pastor of a Georgia megachurch accused of luring young men into sexual relationships has told his congregation of thousands that all people must face painful and distasteful situations.

Bishop Eddie Long said Sunday that “Bishop Long, Eddie Long, you can put your name in that blank, will have some bad situations.” Long was making his first public remarks since four young men filed lawsuits claiming Long lured them into sexual relationships when they were teens.

Long also told the crowd that services were held at New Birth Missionary Baptist Church each week, and that he planned to preside the next week.

Long says he realized people had been waiting on him to speak since the lawsuits were filed.

Online:

New Birth Missionary Baptist: www.newbirth.org/

THIS IS A BREAKING NEWS UPDATE. Check back soon for further information. AP’s earlier story is below.

LITHONIA, Ga. (AP) — The pastor of a Georgia megachurch accused of luring young men into sexual relationships says “I’ll be here next week” for church services.

Bishop Eddie Long told a congregation of thousands Sunday that services were held at New Birth Missionary Baptist Church each week, and that he planned to preside the next week.

Long says he realized people had been waiting on him to speak since four young men filed lawsuits accusing him of luring them into the relationships with gifts and travel.

Long came onto the stage amid wild cheers and shouts of, “We love you bishop!” He entered the massive, 10,000-seat cathedral with his wife, Vanessa.

Online:

New Birth Missionary Baptist: www.newbirth.org/