Detroit Grammy-Winning Pastor Faces Backlash Over $1,200 Donation Criticism

Detroit Pastor Marvin Winans faced backlash after a viral video showed him addressing a congregant, Roberta McCoy, who donated $1,235 during a church fundraiser. The pastor asked members to donate $1,000 of their own money plus raise an additional $1,000, requesting those who raised $2,000 or more to come forward first to maintain order during the event. McCoy and Winans both clarified that the pastor was not rebuking her but correcting her for coming up to donate before it was her turn. Winans emphasized the call order was to ease the process for mothers and the elderly, with no issue about the amount of the donation itself. Despite the clarifications, the video sparked online criticism accusing the pastor of insensitivity during tough economic times. Winans and his church have faced prior controversies, including a city lawsuit over a prolonged construction project, which was later resolved.