FAQ
I have visited your service more than once and each time I have seen people randomly bringing their offering to the altar. This happens before the official offering, during the sermon and even after the sermon. Why do people do this?
The Bible admonishes us to “bring our offering to the altar.” Bishop Long encourages the congregation to follow this mandate as a symbolic expression of their sacrifices to the Lord. Bringing their offerings to the altar allows members to be reminded that the offerings are not for man but for God to use to build His Kingdom and to advance His Will.
Why do the Ministers and Deacons sit in the front row of the congregation?
Bishop Long requests that the front row of seats in the congregation be held by his ministerial team so that when people come to the altar or when there is a special need, they are immediately able to minister to those persons. There are also members of the ministerial team seated throughout the congregation so that people are easily assisted there as well.
Why are there flags of different countries throughout the sanctuary?
New Birth strongly feels a passion and a call to minister not only to its members but also to the nations. The flags represent countries all over the world that we desire to impact with the Word of God and the Gospel of Jesus Christ.
What does it mean when someone says "Christian Experience by Letter"?
When someone leaves one church to join another church, the protocol is for him or her to bring a letter from the previous church to the new one. This letter informs the new church that the new member was in good standing at the previous church.
I have never been given a program for the flow of service when I have visited New Birth. Is there a reason for this?
It is our desire to be completely led of God during our Worship service experience. We have found that when we have a predetermined schedule for service, we are not as free to move when we feel God leading us in a different direction. We do believe in order, but we want to be open to God’s order and not our own.
If I want to volunteer at New Birth, why do I have to go through such extensive volunteer training?
Our volunteer training ensures that all volunteers are of one accord. We want to ensure that the volunteers all understand what we as a ministry believe, understand the expectations in serving in ministry and are held to a level of accountability. Our volunteer training, although extensive, is necessary for us to operate in excellence.
I am not familiar with the title of Bishop. What exactly does it mean, and how is it different from Pastor?
The title Bishop means to oversee; it is used several times in the Bible. A Bishop is one who holds a position of authority. Bishop comes from the Greek word episkopos, which is translated as “bishop,” “overseer” and “superintendent.” A Pastor is one who cares for the flock — a shepherd. Jesus refers to us as His sheep. Bishop Long oversees not only this location but also many others. He is the Senior Pastor of New Birth Missionary Baptist Church, Inc., in Lithonia, GA. See scripture references: Acts 20:17-28, Phil 1:1, I Peter 2:25, I Peter 5:1-4 and I Tim. 3:1.
I tried to schedule a meeting with Bishop Long and was unsuccessful. Can you tell me why?
Bishop Long’s heart is such that he desires to be able to be involved with all New Birth members on a personal basis. He would love to be able to hear every concern, assist with every issue and mentor every member. However, this is not only impossible but also against biblical wisdom (Exodus 18:13-27). Because Bishop Long realizes that God has not called him to carry the load of the ministry by himself, he has surrounded himself with capable men and women to assist him. Therefore, even if the Bishop cannot meet with you personally he will ensure that the leaders assist you in the same heart and manner that he would — and, ultimately, with the anointing that comes from God alone.
What does the New Birth Logo represent?
It is the Cross, Shield (which represents the Shield of Faith) and Dove (which represents the Holy Spirit).
What is the appropriate attire to wear to New Birth?
Come as you are. There is no dress code.
How long has New Birth been in existence?
New Birth celebrated 28 years of service May 2010.
How many books has Bishop Long written?
Bishop Long has written the following books, with more on the way:
- I Don’t Want Delilah, I Need You
- Taking Over
- Called to Conquer
- What a Man Wants, What a Woman Needs
- Power of a Wise Woman
- Gladiator
- Blessing of Giving
- Deliver Me From Adam
- It’s Your Time
- The Elect Lady.
Does New Birth provide transportation?
The New Birth bus arrives at the Indian Creek Train Station, which is located at the end of the East Line for MARTA. The times are:
7:15 a.m. for the 8:00 a.m. Sunday Service
9:45 a.m. & 10:15 a.m. for the 11:00 a.m. Sunday Service
6:15 p.m. for the 7:00 p.m. Tuesday Night Empowerment Session
**Return time & Location**
15 minutes after the close of service, wherever the bus driver previously dropped off the passengers.
Why did Bishop Long change bible study from Wednesday to Tuesday night?
With a new year comes new beginnings; Bishop Long wanted to remove us from our comfort zone.
I am from out of town and would like to visit your church. Should I schedule a tour?
Yes, please contact our Hospitality Director at 770-696-9660.
What telephone number can I call for additional information about an upcoming conference?
Please call our Conference Line at 770-696-9603 or refer to our website.
