Long, who was also an author and gospel singer, was known for preaching and practicing a “prosperity gospel” in which the faithful would be rewarded with wealth. The church operated television and international ministries, and built satellite churches in several cities, including Miami, Denver, and Charlotte, North Carolina. Its membership soared from a modest 300 to 25,000 to become one of the largest congregations in the United States. Long had been the church’s senior pastor since 1987, and oversaw its explosive growth.
“He was at his best when he was giving,” Ellis said. “I truly believe that heaven is applauding him for a work well done.”Įllis said Long was a giver who “lived for others,” noting the generosity he showed to his family and members of his church and the community by paying mortgages, college tuition, furnishing houses, buying groceries and giving people cars when they had no transportation. “He was a life changer called to birth something new in this generation,” Ellis said. Ellis delivered the eulogy for his longtime friend, describing Long as “a gift from God, who’s meant so much to so many.”
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