The Black Church is back in the spotlight; unfortunately, it’s not for reasons related to sound doctrine. Controversy has once again pushed the organization to the forefront in popular culture. But it’s not the first time. African-American congregations have endured controversy and scandal for decades. Here’s a short list of the stories that made headlines.
Bishop Eddie Long
Bishop Eddie Long’s case is one of the most damaging scandals to hit the Black church. He’s currently being accused for coercing four young men into sexual relationships. While Bishop Long is fighting those charges, he has since become a media sensation and the newest poster child for “what is wrong with the black church”. As pastor of the 25,000 member New Birth Missionary Baptist Church in Lithonia, Georgia, he has also endured criticism from fellow clergy who challenged his teachings which pushed that homosexually is “spiritual abortion”.
