Now that Bishop Eddie Long has “somewhat” addressed the sexual abuse charges levied against him, like it or not, the court of public opinion is now open and in full session.
On Monday, the Internet was rife with comments regarding his perceived guilt or innocence. From blogs to social networking sites to YouTube, Bishop Eddie Long was the all-around hot topic of the day, with plenty of exuberant praise and emotional criticism.
Opinions were mixed. Some diehard and faithful New Birth Missionary Baptist Church members took to the web in near blind support of their beleaguered pastor. But others used their computers to voice the shame and guilt they felt Bishop Long has spun himself into.
Cheryl Barnett, who has been a member of New Birth since Long became the Senior Pastor more than 20 years ago, said she was “very much fulfilled with what he had to say,” [on Sunday] adding “It was simple. It was direct. He’s standing in the scriptures. That’s what we would expect from our minister.”
“We don’t believe it,” said Tonia Sawyer, another supportive church member, while Warren Allen chimed in saying “I know it’s all lies.”
But not everyone is so willing to blindly believe Bishop Long is incapable of human sin. During the service this past Sunday, one young man stood up and shouted: “We want to know the truth, man!” He was quickly escorted out and did not return.
One woman took to YouTube with her rant, saying, “Every single word, I believe about Bishop Eddie Long or Eddie Long, you don’t deserve the title bishop.” And another man posted, “I got something to say. He very well could have done this. He’s a man who has flesh and flaws.”
So far, church officials have been extremely quiet with their opinions regarding the situation. But various Atlanta area pastors met recently, offering lukewarm support of their spiritual colleague. In an interview with the Associated Press, Pastor Jasper Williams said he will “continue to pray” for Bishop Long. But he also added the caveat “If allegations come out, however they are, we are forgiving, we love, we appreciate.”
I'm guessing the longer this story goes on, the more people will wake up to the truth. I doubt it ever gets to court though. He's rich enough to settle out of court and save the embarrasment.