Bishop Marvin Winans is addressing the controversy surrounding a viral video from his church’s “Day of Giving,” which sparked criticism and speculation across social media. The pastor of Perfecting Church in Detroit claims the short clip showing him speaking to a member during a donation event has been taken out of context. The woman involved, Roberta McCoy, has also come forward. According to WXYZ, both Winans and McCoy describe the interaction as a simple correction meant to maintain order, not a rebuke.

The viral clip circulated widely after appearing to show Winans questioning a member’s donation in front of the congregation. In the video, McCoy is seen approaching the front with an offering of less than $2,000, prompting online claims that the pastor publicly embarrassed her. 

McCoy, however, says that’s not what happened. “He absolutely did not rebuke me,” she told WXYZ. “Now there’s a difference. There was a correction because, let me clearly state, the pastor gave instructions on the lines to get into.” She explained that Winans had asked members giving $2,000 or more to line up first, followed by other groups in descending order of donation amounts. She joined the wrong line by mistake and said the pastor’s comment was simply a reminder about the order he had established for the large crowd.

Winans echoed her explanation, saying his words were never meant to embarrass anyone. “It was our Day of Giving, and the whole church was participating,” he told WXYZ. “We didn’t want people standing too long, especially the mothers, so we called groups in increments. Someone had given earlier, so I corrected it and told everyone to listen and come when called. That’s all that was.” He added that he wanted to ensure the service moved efficiently so elderly members could remain comfortable.

McCoy said Bishop Winans personally apologized to her after the event and that she accepted immediately. “I’ve been a member of Perfecting Church since 2013 and have always given faithfully,” she said. “I will continue to do so. My pastor didn’t rebuke me at all.”

The “Day of Giving” was part of Perfecting Church’s long-running fundraising effort to complete its new sanctuary and fund community programs. Construction on the worship center has been ongoing for since 2008, delayed by financial and legal hurdles. City officials sued in 2023, calling the unfinished building a public eyesore. A new agreement later revised the design, with completion expected in 2025, according to Atlanta Black Star.

Winans and McCoy now hope their statements will put an end to the speculation. As the pastor told WXYZ, “It was never about embarrassment or confrontation. It was about order, clarity, and giving from the heart.”

See the clip below: