Eddie Long Takes Leave From Atlanta Megachurch Due to 'Family Issues'

FoxNews ^ | Dec. 4, 2011 | Staff

[La Enchiladita]

Atlanta megachurch pastor Bishop Eddie Long said Sunday he is taking a leave from his church to deal with "family issues."

He made the announcement during services at New Birth Missionary Church, WSB-TV reported. He did not specify how long he would be on leave.

...In September 2010, four young men connected to Long's church -- based in the Atlanta suburb of Lithonia -- accused the pastor of coercing them into having sex.

He denied the allegations and a settlement was reached in May before the matters were dismissed.

A fifth man, Centino Kemp, said he had been sexually involved with Long for years and was paid a $150,000 settlement despite not being involved in the four other accusers' lawsuit, according to myFOXatlanta.com.

[La Enchiladita]

Long boasts a membership at his church of between 25,000 and 30,000 people. He has spoken vehemently in the past of his opposition to homosexuality and called for a ban on same-sex marriage.

His church also hosts seminars promising to "cure" homosexuality.

[BigSkyFreeper]

All the more reason to stay out of the Church of The Almighty Dollar.

[La Enchiladita]

There was another mega-church TV bishop charged with the same lewd offenses-— earlier this year I think -— but his name escapes me. I am amazed the way the church members defend this and go into denial.