Long was quoted in the statement saying:
“I am recovering from a health challenge that I trust God to deliver me from. It is unrelated to the eating for life diet consisting of mostly raw vegetables that I am continuing, as part of a holistic approach to good health. At this time, my family and I are requesting that you respect our privacy. I truly appreciate your prayers and support for me, my loved ones and my beloved New Birth Church Family.”
“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,” First Lady Elder Vanessa Long, the Bishop’s wife of 27 years, said of her husband’s passing in the church’s official statement this morning.
Many in the church community are feeling the void at the early news and took to social media: