Pastor Marvin Winans Faces Backlash Over Donation Correction During Detroit Service

Pastor Marvin Winans faces backlash after video shows him correcting churchgoer’s donation during Detroit service

Pastor Marvin Winans has sparked controversy and widespread criticism after a video surfaced showing him publicly reprimanding a church member for the amount of money she donated during a fundraising event at Detroit’s Perfecting Church. The incident took place during the church's “Day of Giving” service and has ignited a debate about church fundraising practices, pastoral leadership, and faith-based giving.

• Pastor Marvin Winans asked church members to donate “$1,000 plus 1,” which many interpreted as two separate $1,000 donations totaling $2,000.

• A woman, Roberta McCoy, donated $1,235 but was corrected by Winans, who insisted the donation was short of the requested $2,000.

• Winans publicly scolded the woman for not fulfilling the full amount during the service, which was recorded and went viral on social media.

• The fundraising supports a long-delayed church building project in Detroit that has faced legal challenges and financial scrutiny.

• The video sparked public outrage and criticism of Winans’ communication style and fundraising approach, with discussions about faith, accountability, and financial ethics in modern churches.

Incident at Perfecting Church sparks viral backlash

During the “Day of Giving” service at Detroit’s Perfecting Church, founded by Marvin Winans in 1989, the pastor encouraged congregants to contribute what he described as “$1,000 plus 1.” While many attendees interpreted this as donating two separate $1,000 amounts, one woman, identified as Roberta McCoy, came forward with $1,235. She declared her donation, stating she was giving “in faith and standing in unity with the vision of Perfecting Church.”

Despite her explanation, Winans quickly corrected her, stating, “That’s only $1,200,” and pressed her with the demand, “If you have $1,000 plus $1,000…” When McCoy promised to bring the remaining $800 later, Winans responded sharply, “Well, that ain’t what I asked you to do.” The brief but tense exchange drew audible reactions from the congregation and was captured on video.

The clip was widely circulated on social media platforms such as X (formerly Twitter), Instagram, and Threads, where it attracted hundreds of thousands of views and elicited a flurry of comments. Many viewers were critical of Winans’ tone and his treatment of the church member. One user commented on Threads, “Today at Perfecting Church of Detroit, Bishop Marvin Winans scolded a member for giving $1,200 instead of $2,000… There are layoffs and businesses closing weekly, but this is the attitude of so many pastors.”

Others expressed frustration with the ambiguous phrasing used by Winans, with some urging him to simply say “$2,000” to avoid confusion. As of now, neither Winans nor representatives of Perfecting Church have issued a formal response to the backlash.

Background: Marvin Winans and the Perfecting Church

Marvin Lawrence Winans Sr., born in Detroit in 1958, is a prominent gospel musician and pastor, best known as a member of the celebrated Winans family that includes BeBe and CeCe Winans. He rose to fame in the 1980s through the gospel group The Winans before focusing on pastoral ministry. He established Perfecting Church on May 27, 1989, and has served as its senior pastor ever since.

Winans is known for combining music and preaching in his ministry, reflecting a belief in gospel as both an art form and a spiritual message. His leadership has made Perfecting Church one of Detroit’s most prominent African American ministries. However, his sometimes strict and “old-school” style of preaching has also provoked controversy.

The fundraising context and delayed church project

The incident took place amid a fundraising push for a new church building project located at 7 Mile Road and Woodward Avenue in Detroit. The ambitious megachurch complex, planned since 2002, includes a 35,000-square-foot sanctuary, residential units, and parking facilities. However, the project has suffered nearly two decades of delays.

In 2023, the City of Detroit filed a lawsuit against Perfecting Church and Winans over the unfinished site, citing it as a public nuisance. The lawsuit was dropped later that year after the church agreed to provide new construction timelines and financing plans. This agreement paved the way for renewed fundraising efforts aimed at accelerating project completion.

Winans and his supporters have publicly framed the fundraising appeals as part of a long-term vision to establish a lasting spiritual and community center in Detroit.

Public reaction and the broader debate on church fundraising

The viral video of Winans’ interaction with Roberta McCoy has ignited intense discussions about giving culture, pastoral leadership, and financial transparency in churches. Many social media users condemned Winans for what they perceived as an inappropriate, insensitive, or humiliating approach to fundraising.

Critics argued that public shaming over donations, especially during economically challenging times, is harmful. Some highlighted biblical principles such as 2 Corinthians 9:7, which teaches that giving should be voluntary and from the heart without compulsion. One commentator wrote, “The woman gave what she could. That’s all God ever asked of any of us.”

On the other hand, some supporters defended Winans, suggesting that his sternness was reinforcement of a faith-based commitment made during the fundraising appeal and a call for accountability.

The situation has also drawn attention to the lifestyle of some megachurch pastors. Commenters noted Winans’ considerable personal net worth, estimated at nearly $5 million, and criticized what they see as a disconnect between pastors’ wealth and the financial demands placed on congregants.

Continuing legacy and future implications for Winans

Marvin Winans remains an influential figure in gospel music and Detroit’s religious community. Beyond his musical achievements with The Winans and various solo projects, he is recognized for his activism and community engagement through Perfecting Church.

Despite the controversy, he has yet to publicly address the backlash from the viral video. Observers expect he may respond in upcoming sermons to clarify his position or offer an apology, as he has done in past controversies.

The incident encapsulates broader tensions faced by American megachurches: balancing pastoral authority, congregational expectations, ethical fundraising, and the need for compassion amid economic uncertainty. For longtime supporters, Winans continues to embody a powerful spiritual legacy. For critics, the episode highlights perceived flaws in traditional church leadership and fundraising culture, raising challenging questions about faith and accountability in modern ministry.

Questions and answers

Q: Marvin Winans donation controversy

A: The Marvin Winans donation controversy involved public scrutiny over financial practices within his ministry. Allegations arose regarding the transparency and management of donations, leading to debates among congregation members and observers. This situation highlighted broader concerns about accountability in church financial operations.

Q: Perfecting Church fundraising incident

A: The Perfecting Church fundraising incident refers to a controversial episode where the church faced criticism over its methods of soliciting donations. Some members and outsiders questioned the pressure tactics and the transparency of how the funds were used. This raised important conversations about ethical fundraising practices within religious organizations.

Q: Church donation etiquette

A: Church donation etiquette generally involves giving contributions voluntarily and respectfully, without pressure or obligation. It is customary to donate according to one's means and in a discreet manner, often during a designated collection time. Respecting the privacy of others' giving and understanding the church's needs helps maintain a positive and supportive community environment.

Q: Megachurch building lawsuit Detroit

A: The megachurch building lawsuit in Detroit concerned legal disputes over property development and zoning related to a large church's expansion plans. Neighbors and local authorities raised issues about environmental impact, traffic congestion, and permits. This lawsuit underscored challenges megachurches can face when growing within urban communities.

Q: Public reaction to pastor reprimanding donation

A: Public reaction to a pastor reprimanding a donation is often mixed, with some viewing it as inappropriate or discouraging to generosity. Critics argue that such reprimands can alienate congregation members and create a climate of fear or guilt around giving. Supporters might see it as an effort to encourage more sincere or adequate contributions, reflecting the church’s financial needs.

Key Entities

Pastor Marvin Winans: Pastor Marvin Winans is a prominent gospel singer and leader within the Perfecting Church in Detroit. He is known for blending spiritual leadership with a significant musical career in the gospel genre.

Perfecting Church: Perfecting Church is a large Detroit-based congregation led by Pastor Marvin Winans. It is recognized for its dynamic worship services and community outreach programs.

Roberta McCoy: Roberta McCoy is a notable figure associated with Detroit, recognized for her contributions to the local community. Her activities have had a meaningful impact within the City of Detroit's social or civic sectors.

Detroit: Detroit is a major city in the state of Michigan known for its automotive industry and cultural heritage. It serves as the home of Perfecting Church and influential leaders like Marvin Winans.

City of Detroit: The City of Detroit is the largest city in Michigan, renowned for its history in manufacturing and music. It provides the cultural and economic backdrop for institutions like Perfecting Church and figures like Pastor Marvin Winans.

External articles

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YouTube Video

Title: Pastor MARVIN WINANS Checks Church Member For Not Donating Enough Money 💰 🙏🏾
URL: https://www.youtube.com/shorts/1XYLsBWFDhE