http://www.nytimes.com/2010/09/26/us/26pastor.html?_r=1&hp
"Sex Scandal Threatens a Georgia Pastor's Empire" James C. McKinley. New York Times.
This article speaks about a pastor from Georgia, Bishop Eddie L. Long who was accused of a sex scandal within his own congregation. This pastor owns a Baptist Church which is composed of multimillion-dollar businesses and enterprises. The headline of this story is very eye-catching simply because associate a pastor with the term Sex Scandal it seems very ironic, which draws the reader in. The readers become interested because they want to learn more about the topic. However, the lead of this article was not as interesting as the headline of the article itself. It seemed to me like the lead was written to just give a brief description of the pastor himself and how his church is expanding rapidly. The lead didn't get straight to the point of the article. The sources that were used in the article included: The four former members of the Youth Group, Reverend Timothy McDonald III (a friend of Bishop Long), the members of the church, and the Bishop himself. Some other sources that could have been used include: the Bishop's family, his wife and parents, and even more members of the congregation. Since these are the people that knows the Bishop best it would give the readers more of an idea of what kind of person the Bishop is in his personal life. These sources would add a sense of hospitality towards the Bishop since things aren't in favor of the Bishop as we speak. The only thing that I think is missing is a few more quotes from the Bishop himself and how he feels about all the accusations that are being made against him. We hear from everyone else throughout the article but we hardly hear any words from the Bishop. I think it would be a good idea if the author of the article were to states how the Bishop feels about the whole situation and what's his next move. I think this story is newsworthy because it speaks on religion. Religion plays a huge role in the lives of many people and it is very important to know whats going on inside the "church" itself. This story sought to expose the dangers that can occur if the wrong "Pastor" is leading the church.
I chose this article because I come from a family who goes to church. A church is suppose to be a holy place a place where all sins are abolished and this article stated the exact opposite. I found it very ironic and strange that a pastor would so something as horrible as bribing youths for sex. It was disgusting and a complete outrage. I wanted to learn more about this pastor that was accused of these acts and how it affected the youths.
I think the article is very interesting especially since there has been a lot of controversy surrounding the Church and this is just another case to show of whats really going on behind closed doors. I agree with Crystal because it is very disturbing to know that a pastor who is supposed to be someone who everyone can trust is committing such heinous crimes.
ReplyDeleteI agree with the both of you. This article is shedding light on some of the corruption that takes place in many churches. I think this article also shows that no place is really safe, not even you own church which is type sad. As a long a s there are people, there will always be some type of controversy, and corruption.
ReplyDeleteAgree as well. Crystal, you bring up a good point -- you don't really get that much from the Bishop. with such a difficult story, it's not surprising.
ReplyDeleteYes i also agree. Who would really think a "sex scandle" would take place in a church. I mean anythings possible but it seems like church's are becoming a thing that isnt taken serious and just another place to make a quick buck.
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