A dramatic moment during a church service in the United States has sparked widespread controversy after a pastor and his prophetess wife publicly introduced another woman as his second wife, insisting their polygynous marriage arrangement is the “will of God.”
The extraordinary announcement took place at LifeWorks Church in Ohio, where Prophet Israel T. Ford and his first wife, Pastor Lydia Ford, presented a female church minister, Shakayla Ford, as the pastor’s second wife.
In a video circulating widely on social media, Lydia stunned worshippers when she stepped forward to reveal that her husband had taken another wife.
Rather than expressing opposition, the prophetess openly welcomed the woman into their family, describing Shakayla as her sister in marriage.
Pastor’s Wife Makes Shocking Revelation Before Congregation
Addressing church members, Lydia explained that Shakayla was already familiar to the congregation because of her involvement in the ministry.
She then invited the woman to the pulpit, where the two embraced before Shakayla addressed the gathering.
The second wife defended the unconventional relationship, insisting that their family arrangement was peaceful and guided by divine instructions.
Moment an American pastor and prophetess, who are both married, introduce a new wife to their congregation and announce that they are now in a polygynous marriage with a female church member, claiming it is the “will of God.” 😭🤦🏾♂️🙆🏾♂️ https://t.co/Pu52Uf7LWy
— 𝐀𝐬𝐚𝐤𝐲𝐆𝐑𝐍 (@AsakyGRN) October 26, 2026
Shakayla described the marriage as God’s will and explained that she had not been mistreated or disadvantaged by joining the existing couple.
Interestingly, Lydia revealed that the arrangement had existed privately for nearly three years before being publicly announced.
Pastor Defends Multiple Wives With Bible Scriptures
Following the viral announcement, Prophet Israel Ford defended his decision on social media, challenging the traditional Christian belief that marriage should involve only one man and one woman.
According to Ford, teachings that restrict men to one wife are inconsistent with his interpretation of the Bible.
He referenced Exodus 21:10 to support his position, maintaining that he would prioritize what he believes God has revealed over public approval.
Viral Announcement Divides Christians Online
The announcement has generated heated discussions across social media, with some observers questioning whether the arrangement aligns with Christian teachings.
Others have pointed to Old Testament figures who practiced polygyny, although most mainstream Christian denominations uphold monogamous marriage.
Polygyny refers to a marital arrangement in which one man has multiple wives.
However, Ohio law does not recognize multiple simultaneous legal marriages, and it remains unclear whether the pastor’s second union is purely religious or ceremonial.
As the video continues circulating, the unusual announcement has reignited debate about marriage, religious leadership and the interpretation of biblical scriptures.
