Keep The Faith magazine - Britain's leading publication about Black faith

Dear Keep the Faith,

Temptation follows church leaders

One important fact that Rev Shosanya forgot to mention in his article about the Bishop Eddie Long lawsuit case, is that church leaders, particularly those that are charismatic, are often a magnet for predatory men and women, who want to either seduce them, get money from them, or are just excited to hang out with an individual they perceive to be powerful.  When I became a Christian, I was just a regular guy who sat in the pews, soaking up God’s Word.

Very few people took notice of me.  When my pastor recognised the calling of God on my life, and started mentoring me and giving me opportunities to preach, my life was transformed.  Everyone wanted to be my friend, and I became one of the most eligible men in the church. Not only did the women in my church (and denomination) make it clear they fancied me, I even had supposedly Christian women turning up at my home offering me sexual favours!  Having spent my youth in the world, I was surprised to say the least.  Whilst being a church leader can be exhilarating, it comes with great temptation.

Leaders need prayerful support from their congregations, so that they have the strength to resist temptation in whatever guise it comes. And yes, I resisted the temptation and am now happily married.

Name withheld