The church also released a statement from Bishop Long.  It reads as follows:

“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.”