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Thursday, September 23, 2010

Georgia Pastor Eddie Long Spent A Generation Building His Megachurch

By ERRIN HAINES
Associated Press Writer

ATLANTA (AP) -- Bishop Eddie Long built his congregation into a megachurch empire, telling his followers God wanted them to be wealthy and delivering fiery sermons with a secular swagger. But that empire hangs in the balance amid accusations he had sexual relationships with three young men.

On Sunday mornings, Long is usually draped in regal robes and dripping with diamonds and platinum - the kind of material rewards he often says are in God's plan for those listening. He hangs with celebrities like rapper T.I. and donates money to charities and candidates. Even the county sheriff is among his followers.

Long spent more than 20 years building all that up. And his 25,000 followers aren't about to let it all come tumbling down after the three men filed lawsuits claiming the bishop abused his spiritual authority.

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