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Ohio pastor controversy regarding polygynous marriage

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2026-10-28 23:57 UTC → 2026-10-29 06:05 UTC · added ~~removed~~

Israel Ford, co-founder of LifeWorks Church in Wickliffe, Ohio, announced during a church service on October 25, 2026, that he has been in a polygynous marriage for approximately three years. His first wife, Pastor Lydia Ford, introduced Minister Shakayla Ford to the congregation as his second wife and her ‘sister in marriage.’ Following the announcement, Ford defended the arrangement on social media and in interviews, arguing that the societal expectation of monogamy is ‘unbiblical.’ He contended that the biblical requirement for leaders to be the ‘husband of one wife’ is a cultural instruction rather than a universal mandate, citing figures such as Abraham, Jacob, and David to support his interpretation. He specifically referenced Exodus 21:10 to bolster his position. In addressing perceived inequalities, Ford noted that while he could potentially take a third wife if financially able, his current wives are not permitted to have other husbands. He justified this distinction by asserting that men and women carry different responsibilities, claiming a husband’s role involves a greater sacrifice. While some congregation members applauded the announcement, critics have cited 1 Timothy 3:2 regarding leadership qualifications. The International Bible Way Church of Jesus Christ issued a statement declaring polygamy unacceptable under its doctrine, warning leaders against redefining marriage based on personal or cultural interpretations. Additionally, legal experts have noted that Ohio law prohibits bigamy, though it remains unclear if the arrangement involves legally recognized marriages.

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