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*While Michael Vick was in Virginia finding Jesus in the wake of his dogfighting charges, Bishop Thomas W. Weeks III was blaming the devil for accusations that he viciously beat his wife, evangelist and gospel singer Juanita Bynum, in the parking lot of an Atlanta hotel.
According to the Atlanta Journal-Constitution, Bishop Weeks drew cheers and applause as he was introduced during service Sunday at Global Destiny Ministries, the Atlanta church he founded. Addressing the congregation just two days after turning himself in to authorities on the charges, Weeks said the devil was behind his current situation. He also expressed appreciation for the prayers and support he and his wife have received.
"We've got certain things going on right now, but I refuse to stop coming to the house God built," he said during his brief appearance before introducing a guest minister and leaving the room.
As previously reported, police said Weeks choked Bynum, pushed her to the ground and started to kick and stomp on her during an argument on Aug. 21 outside a hotel. A hotel employee stepped in and pulled Weeks off her, police said.
Currently free on bond, Weeks was charged with aggravated assault and terroristic threats following the confrontation, which police say left his estranged wife badly bruised. He is due in Fulton County Superior Court on Sept. 7.
Meanwhile, members of his congregation at Global Destiny Ministries have decided to wait for all the facts before passing judgment or taking sides in the matter.
"There are three sides to every story," said frequent visitor Shannon Mayers, according to the Atlanta Journal-Constitution. "Nobody has the right to judge anybody. God is in the midst of that and will work it out."
Maurice Adams, 26, said he was disappointed to hear the news but still considers Weeks his bishop.
"We all make mistakes. He deserves another opportunity," Adams told the newspaper. "I'm hurt, but I do respect him for being man enough to show his face today."
Related article:
THE MO'KELLY REPORT: T.D. Jakes' Seeming Indifference to Juanita Bynum
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