An evangelical Christian pastor — who showed off packed church services in defiance of a state order — has died from the coronavirus, the New York Post reports.
Bishop Gerald O. Glenn of Richmond, Va.’s New Deliverance Evangelistic Church held packed church services, despite a state order limiting public gatherings to no more than ten people.
Glenn happily announced enjoyed being “controversial” for violating public safety orders saying he had “way more” than ten people at the March 22 service.
During his last known in-person service, on March 22, Bishop Glenn spoke about COVID-19:
” I firmly believe that God is larger than this dreaded virus. You can quote me on that, you can quote me on that. I am essential, I’m a preacher — I talk to God!
Glenn’s death was announced Sunday by his congregation, saying he died just a week after being diagnosed with the virus in this video:
In another Facebook post, Glenn’s New Deliverance Evangelistic Church stated:
“People of God: During this time of intense grief, we ask that you pray continually for the FIRST FAMILY of NDEC. While they are mourning the heartbreaking earthly absence of their family patriarch & spiritual father, they also have family members who are struggling to survive this dreaded pandemic.
“Whenever you pray & every time you pray, call out their names and the names of all who need healing & comfort.
“Be encouraged, God is still in control.
Glenn’s widow is also sick with the virus. Glenn’s daughter told local news to stay home saying:
” It becomes very real to you. I just beg people to understand the severity and the seriousness of this, because people are saying it’s not just about us, it’s about everyone around us.
