Pastor Marvin Winans’ Church Reportedly Empty After Viral Video Scolding Woman for Donating “Only” $1,200
Detroit’s famous pastor Marvin Winans is facing major backlash — and now, according to members, his once-packed church has been noticeably empty in recent weeks.
Two weeks ago, a viral video showed the popular pastor scolding a woman during service after she donated $1,200 instead of the $2,000 he reportedly asked for. The clip sparked outrage online, with many accusing the pastor of embarrassing the woman publicly and prioritizing money over ministry.
The Viral Moment
The video, which circulated widely on TikTok and Facebook, shows Pastor Winans addressing a member later identified as Roberta McCoy. In the footage, he questions her for giving less than the amount he requested during what church members called a “special giving line.”
The tone of the exchange — and the fact that it happened in front of the congregation — immediately caused outrage online. Thousands of users criticized the pastor for what they viewed as “prosperity preaching gone too far.”
The Woman Speaks Out
After the video went viral, Roberta McCoy went on local Detroit news to share her perspective. She explained that she had planned to donate $2,000 but could only give $1,200 that day due to personal financial reasons. Instead of receiving understanding or compassion, she said she was met with public criticism — something that left her feeling humiliated and disrespected.
McCoy said she was hurt by how the situation was handled, especially because her intention had been to support her church. She maintained that the amount she gave was significant to her and came from the heart.
The Aftermath — An Empty Church?
Following the controversy, McCoy claims she was later asked by church leaders to apologize to Pastor Winans, even though she had originally sought an apology for how the matter was handled. After initially offering an apology, she later changed her mind and withdrew it, saying she no longer felt responsible for what happened.
McCoy and other attendees have since stated that attendance at Perfecting Church — Winans’ Detroit megachurch — has noticeably declined. Several commenters online have echoed those claims, saying the large sanctuary has appeared “half empty” in recent livestreams. While Media Take Out cannot independently verify current attendance numbers, the perception among viewers is that the controversy has hurt the church’s public image.
Social Media Reacts
Social media users have been outspoken in their reactions, with many calling the pastor’s behavior disappointing. Others have described the viral clip as an example of how churches can lose sight of their spiritual mission when focusing too heavily on money.
Still, some long-time members have continued to support Pastor Winans, insisting his intentions were misunderstood and that his work in the Detroit community speaks for itself.
A Lesson in Faith and Optics
As the debate continues, the situation serves as a reminder of how quickly public opinion can shift — especially when faith, finances, and viral media collide.
Whether this controversy fades away or leaves a lasting impact on Pastor Winans’ ministry remains to be seen. But one thing is certain — the incident has shaken Detroit’s church community and sparked serious conversations about leadership, giving, and accountability in the modern church.