Pastor Matthew D. Long, Jr. named to Greenville Business Magazine’s “Best & Brightest 35 and Under”

Greenville Business Magazine has announced its annual list of the Best & Brightest 35 and Under, honoring young leaders making significant contributions in business, community, and leadership. Among this year’s honorees is Pastor Matthew D. Long, Jr., Senior Pastor of Rock Hill Baptist Church II.

Pastor Long’s recognition comes on the heels of his 4th Pastoral Anniversary at Rock Hill Baptist Church II, where he leads with vision, compassion, and a strong commitment to community service. Under his leadership, the church has become a hub of hope and help for Greenville’s District 25 community, including:

• Over $100,000 given in home goods and supplies distributed directly to local families in need.
• More than 1,000 meals served during Hurricane Helene relief efforts, demonstrating compassion in crisis.
• A weekly Blessing Box program feeding an average of 30 families each week.
• A Family Care Closet, providing essential items such as clothes, diapers, and nutritional support like Ensure.

Pastor Long is also deeply engaged in civic and organizational leadership, serving on boards across South Carolina and throughout the country. His influence extends beyond the pulpit, building bridges that strengthen youth services, community engagement, and multi-generational ministry on both local and national levels.

In his feature with Greenville Business Magazine, Pastor Long shared his guiding philosophy:

“I believe in more than just achieving milestones. I’m driven to build sustainable change. Goals provide direction, but systems create consistency, growth, and legacy. In my work with youth and communities, it’s not enough to have one great program or a single successful event. What truly matters is designing structures and systems that keep working, adapting, and uplifting people — even when I’m not in the room. That’s how generational change is made.”

The full Best & Brightest 35 and Under 2025 feature is available in the September 2023 issue of the Greenville Business Magazine.

About Rock Hill Baptist Church II

Founded in 1885, Rock Hill Baptist Church II has been a beacon of faith and service for 140 years. With a mission of Glorifying God, Spreading the Gospel, and Making Disciples, the church continues to evolve as a spiritual, cultural, and community anchor in Greenville’s Pleasant Valley community.