Controversy Surrounds Pastor Marvin Winans Over Donation Remarks
Renowned gospel singer and pastor Marvin Winans recently addressed backlash after a video emerged showing him seemingly admonishing a congregant for not meeting a donation target during a church service. The incident took place at Perfecting Church in Detroit, Michigan, sparking significant online discussion.
The controversy began when a video leaked of Winans during a “day of giving” service. The service involved congregants stepping forward to announce their contributions towards the construction of a new sanctuary. Winans had requested members to donate $1,000 and raise an additional $1,000.
When Roberta McCoy and her son approached the front and announced their donation of $1,000 plus another $200, Winans commented, “Now that’s only $1,200,” pointing out the shortfall. McCoy agreed, explaining she intended to work on securing the remaining $800, to which Winans responded, “That ain’t what I asked you to do,” eliciting laughter and applause.
Winans explained his perspective in an interview with WXYZ-TV Detroit, suggesting the incident was a misunderstanding about the order of announcements. “I was calling because the whole church was giving, and it was our day of giving…I corrected it, and I told everybody to listen and come when you call, and that’s all that was,” said Winans.
McCoy, a church member since 2013, stated that Winans had personally apologized and clarified that she was not “rebuked” but rather “corrected” for approaching at an incorrect time.
Winans, part of a prominent Gospel music lineage and founder of Perfecting Church, previously made headlines in 2018 when a former housekeeper filed a lawsuit against him and the church, alleging termination over tithe payments. The case was ultimately dismissed in 2021, with each party covering their own legal costs.
This article was originally written by www.christianpost.com
