Pastor accused of sex abuse says he won’t be pulled into ’street fight’

[WillParkinson]

Pastor accused of sex abuse says he won’t be pulled into ’street fight’

(Lithonia, Ga.) A megachurch pastor accused of luring four young men into sexual relationships said Sunday that he won’t be pulled into a street fight over the allegations and vowed that his faith has been strengthened.

Bishop Eddie Long did not directly mention the accusations to thousands of cheering supporters during services at New Birth Missionary Baptist Church in suburban Lithonia. But his remarks seemed directly addressed to his accusers.

“In times of challenge, there are several things that come out. Your faith will be strengthened or weakened,” he said, to growing applause. “My faith is being strengthened.”

Long told supporters at New Birth Missionary Baptist Church that he is “not going to be pulled into a street fight” and that he doesn’t hate anyone. But he directed his listeners to turn to a passage in the Book of Job that read: “Those who hate you will be clothed with shame, and the tent of the wicked will be no more.”

As his devoted flock cheered, Long joked that he accidentally led them to the wrong page. “That was the Holy Ghost,” he said, flashing a smile as the sanctuary echoed with laughter.

http://www.365gay.com/news/pastor-accused-of-sex-abuse-says-he-wont-be-pulled-into-street-fight/

[napi21]

1. He's spoken directly to his congregation twice but NEVER denied

that he did what his accusers said. I find that quite interesting. I would think, (if I were wrongfully accused of something) the first words our of a person's mouth would be I DIDN'T DO IT!

[joeybee12]

2. Wow...all I get from this is that some people are really, really, really stupid...

a con artist extraodinaire and they're worshipping him.

[Bluenorthwest]

3. His congregation is culpable

They create his power, fund his lavish lifestyle, and carry out his vicious objectives. They help him abuse their own kids. Good folks. Sanctified.

[old mark]

4. ...but he will be pulled into court, evidently. That may test some people's faith a bit....nt

[beyurslf]

5. Wrong. The article (and all the others I have seen) says the young men were 17 and 18

when this happened. That is above the age of consent and not sex abuse. It is consensual sex, even if plied with gifts and money.