DETROIT, United States (FN) — A viral video showing a moment between a Detroit pastor and a church member during a fundraising service has sparked widespread debate online, prompting both individuals to clarify what actually happened.
The clip, taken during a “Day of Giving” service at Perfecting Church on October 19, shows Bishop Marvin Winans responding to a donation made by congregant Roberta McCoy. In the video, McCoy approaches the pulpit and announces a contribution of 1,235 Dollars. Winans, appearing to reference a previously stated goal, responds, “That’s only 1,200 Dollars… if you have a thousand plus a thousand,” prompting mixed reactions from the congregation and viewers online.
The exchange quickly went viral, with many accusing the pastor of publicly rebuking McCoy for not meeting a 2,000 Dollars donation target. However, both Winans and McCoy have since stated that the moment was misunderstood and taken out of context.
“He absolutely did not rebuke me,” McCoy told local media. “There was a correction, yes, but it wasn’t a rebuke. I simply got in the wrong line at the wrong time.”
Winans explained that the church had asked members who were donating 2,000 Dollars or more to come forward at a specific time. McCoy, who had pledged a different amount, joined the line early, leading to the brief exchange.
The pastor emphasized that the church’s fundraising efforts were voluntary and aimed at completing a new sanctuary and supporting community programs. He also expressed concern over how quickly misinformation spread online.
The incident has reignited broader conversations about transparency, expectations, and financial practices within religious institutions, particularly in the age of social media where moments can be rapidly amplified and misinterpreted.
Despite the controversy, both Winans and McCoy have reaffirmed their mutual respect and commitment to the church’s mission.
