Mourners and critics react to Bishop Eddie Long’s funeral on social media
On Wednesday morning, hundreds flocked to New Birth Missionary Baptist Church in Lithonia to attend the funeral of Bishop Eddie Long.
»RELATED: Live update: Eddie Long’s funeral begins; here’s a live stream
Long, who became senior pastor of the church in 1987, died Jan. 15 from an aggressive form of cancer, according to the church. He was 63.
As people lined up in droves to express their condolences, others live-streamed the homegoing service and took to social media to share their thoughts about the controversial preacher.
»RELATED: Who is Bishop Eddie Long?
Many celebrated his life, noting the impact his spiritual leadership had on them.
Attending My Bishop Eddie Long church on his home going service.. May he rest in peace and harmony with the heavenly Father for eternity.. pic.twitter.com/NIBMbjX9zm
— AvDjrumncoke (@AvDjrumncoke) January 25, 2017
This pic of Bishop Long with my wife and I is over 20 years old. Today we lay our friend and brother, Bishop Eddie Long, to rest. pic.twitter.com/TsfBvFbczr
— Bishop Dale Bronner (@BishopBronner) January 25, 2017
On the other hand, critics used their social platforms to sound off about Long's complex legacy, which was altered after four men accused the pastor of sexual coercion.
🗣️ EDDIE LONG WAS NOT A SAINT.— dm. (@davidbackwards) January 25, 2017
Watching the Eddie Long funeral. What a disgrace!! I have never seen such Idolatry and false honor. We can't even be honest in the end
— ms justice (@msjustice2) January 25, 2017
As good as Eddie Long was for and to some, he was TERRIBLE for and to others...
— CT Jermin (@pastorctj) January 25, 2017
Despite the difference of opinions, there are some people who simply want to wish Long’s family and supporters well as they grieve.
Watching the funeral of Eddie Long online. Prayers for his family.
— MsLogan (@CLogan30) January 25, 2017
😭(my heart is for his family) #InHeaven— Ana Martinez-Smith (@F_BCHRISTian) January 25, 2017Messed around and watched the end of Bishop #EddieLong home going service (the end) and got me in
📸— Daviqua Robinson (@VPhotography05) January 25, 2017Bishop Eddie Long is being put to rest today . Prayers for Family & Friends as they stay strong through a devastating event
Prayers to the New Birth Family today as they lay to rest Bishop Eddie Long #We are Praying for you all #MuchLove https://t.co/bTfgA1nkhi
— MonicaLisa Stevenson (@MonicaLisaMLS) January 25, 2017
»RELATED: Here’s what you should know about Eddie Long’s funeral
»RECOMMENDED VIDEO: History of Eddie Long and New Birth Baptist Church
About the Author
Najja Parker is a multimedia journalist covering Black culture for The Atlanta Journal-Constitution. She is an engaging on-air talent, who has served as a host for the newsroom’s special projects and events, such as the movie premiere of “The South Got Something To Say,” a documentary chronicling the rise of Atlanta hip-hop.
