Today, with profound sadness, New Birth Missionary Baptist Church announced the passing of Bishop Eddie Long, according to the AJC.
Highly regarded for his vision, boldness, and unapologetic courage to walk in the supernatural, Bishop Long will be missed as husband, father, grandfather, and more by his family, as well as a pastor and friend who was passionate about bringing souls into the body of Christ.
Team Jesus Magazine covered the release of Bishop Long’s book, “The Untold Story: A Story of Adversity, Pain and Resilience” and his 2016 appearance on the Steve Harvey Show. Even in Bishop Long’s death, the beauty of God’s redemption shines bright and rings true for all who will surrender their lives to Jesus Christ.
We personally offer our sincere condolences to the family, our friend Edward Long, and give honor to God for using Bishop Long and New Birth as a personal beacon of hope and faith during trying times in our lives.
According to the church’s statement:
New Birth Missionary Baptist Church celebrates the life and legacy of Bishop Eddie L. Long who is now spiritually healed and home with the Lord. Bishop Long, Senior Pastor of New Birth, transitioned from this life early Sunday morning after a gallant private fight with an aggressive form of cancer. As a man of God with unyielding faith, Bishop Long maintained his commitment to our Heavenly Father as he proclaimed that cancer would not kill his faith nor his spirit. First Lady Elder Vanessa Long, Bishop Long’s wife of 27 years offered the following. “I am confidant through my belief in God that my husband is now resting in a better place. Although, his transition leaves a void for those of us who loved him dearly, we can celebrate and be happy for him, knowing he’s at peace.”
Deeply committed to his church, even in his last days, Bishop Long delivered his final message to New Birth as we ushered in 2017. He told the church that God was already working in our favor and what we have been praying for was already manifested. In his departure, we receive that and as faithful members of New Birth, we praise God for the life of Bishop Long. Bishop Long was known as one of the most influential faith leaders in the world. He stood strong as a Kingdom Builder, pioneering leader, and revolutionary mind changer. Long was a family man and spiritual leader who was well respected and loved for his passion to unapologetically and courageously preach the gospel of Jesus Christ. Long inspired thousands of believers around the world through his global ministry that literally changed lives. Through his earthly battle, Bishop Long believed that God was once again using him to help others see the power of the Holy Spirit through the love New Birth displayed to him and the countless prayers sent up by others from every corner of the earth.Bishop Eddie L. Long was 63 years old. He is survived by his beautiful wife, First Lady Elder Vanessa Long, 4 children Eric, Edward, Jared and Taylor and 3 grandchildren. The Long family thanks you for your prayers, condolences and messages of love. The family appreciates your support and respect of their privacy, as they prepare along with New Birth, for the homegoing service to honor Bishop Long. The date and other details will be announced in the near future.
Please continue to keep the Long family and New Birth in your prayers during this challenging time of grief and transition.