Cleveland-area pastor Israel Ford sparked controversy after publicly introducing his second wife at LifeWorks Church. Ford, who founded the congregation in 2009, announced his polygynous marriage in an Instagram video posted Oct. 25.
His first wife and fellow pastor, Lydia Ford, introduced Minister Shakayla Talley Ford during the service. Congregants responded with a standing ovation.
Lydia described Shakayla as her “sister in marriage” and affirmed her place within their family. The announcement made it clear that Ford now considers himself married to two women at once.
Ford challenges traditional Christian marriage teachings
Ford defended his decision by arguing that Christian teachings requiring monogamy contradict Scripture.
“As a nation we have been taught that a man should have one wife only. This is unbiblical,” he wrote.
He cited Exodus 21:10, which addresses a man’s obligations when taking another wife. The passage requires continued provision of food, clothing and marital rights.
Ford also rejected anticipated criticism, insisting he would follow what he believes God revealed. He promised a forthcoming sermon explaining his interpretation.
Second wife addresses church leadership concerns
Shakayla told congregants that her marriage reflected God’s will and strengthened their family.
She emphasized that she would retain her existing ministerial position because she had no intention of replacing Lydia.
“I’m still Minister Shakayla. I’m not a pastor,” she explained.
Shakayla also suggested their arrangement could welcome people who have experienced rejection from other churches over polygamous relationships.
Biblical objections and Ohio marriage laws raise questions
The Cleveland pastor’s announcement of a second wife drew criticism from Instagram commenters who questioned its biblical legitimacy.
Some cited 1 Timothy 3:2, which requires church overseers to “remain “be above reproach, faithful to his wife” which challenges Ford’s interpretation of Christian marriage and pastoral qualifications.
However, Shakayla suggested the arrangement could help families excluded from other congregations.
Legal questions also remain because Ohio prohibits married individuals from marrying another person or continuing to cohabit with that person under its cited statute. Violations can carry misdemeanor penalties, including jail time and fines.
Authorities have not established whether Ford’s second marriage involved legal registration or solely a spiritual commitment.
Source: Ohio pastor announces second wife, embraces polygamy
Photo by Micah & Sammie Chaffin on Unsplash
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