Greenville, SC, September 11, 2025
News Summary
Pastor Matthew D. Long, Jr., Senior Pastor of Rock Hill Baptist Church II, has been recognized as one of Greenville’s ‘Best & Brightest 35 and Under’. This accolade celebrates young leaders making significant contributions to the Greenville area. Under Pastor Long’s leadership, the church has provided over $100,000 in aid and served 1,000 meals during Hurricane Helene, highlighting a strong commitment to community service and sustainable growth.
Greenville Recognizes Pastor Matthew D. Long, Jr. as One of the Best & Brightest
Greenville, SC – Pastor Matthew D. Long, Jr., the Senior Pastor of Rock Hill Baptist Church II, has been named one of Greenville’s “Best & Brightest 35 and Under” by Greenville Business Magazine as of September 10, 2025. This recognition celebrates young leaders who are making a significant impact in shaping the future of the Upstate region.
This honor comes just after the celebration of Pastor Long’s 4th Pastoral Anniversary, marking a period of growth and community engagement at Rock Hill II. Under his leadership, the church has made notable contributions, including providing over $100,000 in home goods and supplies to local families in need. In addition, during relief efforts for Hurricane Helene, the church served 1,000 meals, demonstrating a strong commitment to community service during times of crisis.
Community Initiatives and Contributions
Among the various initiatives spearheaded by Pastor Long, the weekly Blessing Box program stands out, as it serves an average of 30 families by providing essential food items. Furthermore, the church has established a Family Care Closet that offers clothes, diapers, and nutritional necessities to families facing hardships.
In addition to his local leadership role, Pastor Long serves on multiple boards across South Carolina and nationally, further extending his reach and influence in advancing community engagement and youth services. His vision focuses on creating multi-generational leadership that supports sustainable development rather than just temporary fixes.
A Philosophy of Change
Pastor Long emphasizes creating systems that encourage lasting change, explaining that structured initiatives can lead to consistent growth and a lasting legacy. This approach favors long-term results over mere milestones, reflecting his dedication to uplifting community members even when he may not be present directly.
Upcoming Weather in Greenville
The weather forecast for Greenville on September 11, 2025, indicates mainly sunny skies with a high of 84°F. Northeastern winds are expected to reach 5 to 10 mph, with a nighttime low of 61°F. Light and variable winds will accompany the cooler temperatures, allowing residents to enjoy a pleasant evening.
Conclusion
Pastor Matthew D. Long, Jr.’s recent recognition places him alongside other influential young leaders in Greenville, highlighting his unwavering commitment to community growth and development. His efforts at Rock Hill Baptist Church II illustrate the significant role faith-based organizations can play in addressing community needs and fostering lasting change.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is Pastor Matthew D. Long, Jr.?
Pastor Long is the Senior Pastor of Rock Hill Baptist Church II in Greenville, SC, recognized for his impactful community service efforts.
What is the “Best & Brightest 35 and Under” list?
This list, published by Greenville Business Magazine, celebrates young leaders under 35 who are making significant contributions to the community.
What achievements contributed to Pastor Long’s recognition?
His church provided over $100,000 in aid, served 1,000 meals during Hurricane Helene, and offers essential supplies through community initiatives.
What are some initiatives led by Pastor Long?
Notable initiatives include the weekly Blessing Box for food assistance and a Family Care Closet for clothing and essentials.
What is Pastor Long’s philosophy on community service?
He believes in creating sustainable systems for change that foster growth and legacy within the community.
What is the weather forecast for Greenville?
Expect sunny weather with a high of 84°F and a low of 61°F on September 11, 2025.
Key Features of Pastor Long’s Contribution
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Community Instigations | Over $100,000 in aid provided to families in need. |
| Relief Efforts | 1,000 meals served during Hurricane Helene recovery. |
| Blessing Box | Weekly operation feeding an average of 30 families. |
| Family Care Closet | Available resources for clothes, diapers, and nutrition. |
| Board Membership | Engages with various boards enhancing community services. |
| Sustainable Change Focus | Emphasizes systems that support long-term growth and legacy. |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Additional Resources
- Post and Courier: Rock Hill Baptist Church II
- Wikipedia: Greenville, South Carolina
- Julie Roys: South Carolina Pastor Charged
- Google Search: Greenville SC news
- Greenville Online: Morningside Baptists Tony Miller
- Encyclopedia Britannica: South Carolina
- Dignity Memorial: Marilyn Williams
- Google News: Rock Hill Baptist Church II

Author: STAFF HERE GREENVILLE
The HERE Greenville Staff Writers are a collaborative team of journalists, editors, and local contributors passionate about delivering accurate, timely information to the Greenville community. As part of the HEREcity.com Network, which powers over 100 U.S. city sites including HEREcolumbia.com, our staff draws on collective experience in South Carolina journalism to cover everything from business sales and real estate developments to dining deals and community initiatives. Our Expertise and Background Local Roots in Greenville Our team includes lifelong Greenville residents and SC natives with deep knowledge of the area’s history, economy, and culture. We’ve covered key events like the recent sales in the Heritage Historic District 17 , Greenville’s textile and railroad heritage 2 , and growth in local education sectors (e.g., Greenville Technical College programs) 27 . Collective Experience With over 50 combined years in journalism, our staff has backgrounds in print, digital media, and community reporting. We prioritize fact-based stories, drawing from sources like the Greenville Chamber of Commerce, city government records, and on-the-ground interviews. Commitment to Quality Every article is a group effort, involving research, editing, and verification to ensure reliability. We adhere to journalistic standards, citing credible sources and updating content as new details emerge.


