What’s Next For The Church After Bishop Eddie Long’s Settlement?

With the recent resignation of Rev. Bernice King, could New Birth Missionary Baptist Church be on a downward spiral?

The youngest daughter of Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King and Coretta Scott King definitely chose an interesting time to exit the doors of the now infamous church.

Bishop Eddie Long offered this statement,

“I am in full support of her decision to leave New Birth in pursuit of this worthy endeavor,” the statement reads. “Reverend Bernice King has made tremendous and profound contributions to New Birth as an elder and faithful servant. We ask that you join us in extending unequivocal support and love for Reverend King as she embarks on this new calling.”

During last Sunday’s Memorial Day weekend sermon, the church parking lot was not as full as it used to be.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JHx4aW41Vss&feature=player_embedded

It seems that the once bustling church – which can hold over 10,000 people, may be on its last leg. I’m hearing rumors that the Bishop refuses to discuss details of the sexual misconduct settlement with church leaders. Even if the details are not made public, doesn’t it make sense to disclose some information to the people who have stood by you during this turmoil? I’m sure that with all of the publicity this case has garnered, many of the Bishop’s “loyal flock” will soon be seeking spiritual guidance elsewhere.

Long  has repeatedly denied claims made by four men, Anthony Flagg, Spencer LeGrande, Jamal Parris and Maurice Robinson, that the bishop had used his influence, trips, gifts and jobs to coerce them into sexual relations.

I’m just lost in the sauce here, at what point do people take the WOOL off of their eyes and wake up? Seems that quite a few of the congregation has gotten a clue…I’m just worried about the remaining few who haven’t.

Do you think that this settlement will lead to Bishop Eddie Long being ousted? What will declining membership do to New Birth?