A US-based clergyman, Prophet Israel Ford, has stirred controversy after publicly introducing his second wife, Shalya, to his congregation, revealing that they have been married for three years without the knowledge of church members.
Ford made the revelation on Sunday, October 25, in a move that left congregants with a major surprise.
In an unusual twist, the pastor gave his first wife, Lydia Ford, the honour of formally introducing Shalya to the congregation.
Describing their marital arrangement as “polygynous”, Lydia welcomed Shalya as her “sister in marriage” and disclosed that members of the church had benefited from her ministrations over the years.
In her acceptance speech, Shalya described the occasion as a moment to address “the big elephant in the room”.
She credited God for leading and guiding them through their marital journey, insisting that despite differing opinions, she believed they were living according to God’s will and reflecting His purpose for marriage.
Ford later shared a video of the occasion on social media, where he defended his decision to take a second wife.
The clergyman argued that teaching against polygamy was unbiblical, challenging religious leaders who condemn the practice.
