Bishop Marvin Winans Under Fire After Viral Video Shows Him Scolding Woman Over $1,200 Church Donation

Follow

( 0 Followers )

X

Follow

E-mail : *

Follow Unfollow

The internet is buzzing after a viral video showed renowned Detroit pastor, Bishop Marvin Winans, publicly questioning a woman and her young son during a “Day of Giving” fundraise at his church, after she donated $1,200 instead of $2,000.

In the clip, Bishop Winans — founder of Perfecting Church— is heard telling the woman, “That’s only $1,200… I asked for $2,000.”

The scene quickly drew outrage online, with thousands accusing the gospel icon of publicly humiliating the congregant in front of the entire church.

The backlash was swift, with critics calling it “un-Christlike” and condemning what many viewed as pressure-driven fundraising in the house of God. Some social media users even dubbed the clip “the most uncomfortable moment in church history.”

However, new details are now emerging that paint a more nuanced picture.

According to both Bishop Winans and the woman involved — identified as Roberta McCoy — the viral video was taken out of context. Winans clarified that the donation process was organized by contribution tiers to ensure order during the large fundraising event, and that no rebuke was intended.

“It was never about shame. It was about calling forward donors in increments so no one would be standing unnecessarily,” the bishop explained in an interview. McCoy herself later confirmed that Winans personally apologized to her, insisting she did not feel humiliated and that she continues to attend the church. The incident occurred during a fundraiser aimed at supporting the completion of Perfecting Church’s long-delayed new sanctuary — a project that has faced multiple setbacks over the years. Still, the viral moment reignited online debate about church giving practices, leadership accountability, and respect for congregants. While supporters defend Winans as a passionate leader committed to excellence, others argue the episode highlights a growing disconnect between church leaders and struggling members. As the conversation continues, Bishop Winans’ response and McCoy’s statement have helped calm tensions — but the clip remains a powerful reminder of how quickly moments from the pulpit can become global social-media controversies in the digital age.