VIDEO: Ohio pastor announces second wife, defends polygynous marriage as biblical

An Ohio pastor has publicly introduced a second wife, arguing that the Christian teaching that a man should have only one wife is “unbiblical,” a declaration that has sparked debate among churchgoers and social media users.

Israel Ford, founder of LifeWorks Church in the Cleveland area, shared a video of the announcement on Instagram on October 25. During the service, his first wife, Lydia Ford, who is also a pastor, introduced Minister Shakayla Talley Ford to the congregation. Attendees reportedly responded with a standing ovation.

Ford said he would explain his position in a sermon to be published later. In his social media post, he acknowledged that his decision would draw criticism but said he would not abandon what he believes God had revealed to him.

He cited Exodus 21:10, a biblical passage addressing a man who takes another wife and his obligations concerning food, clothing and marital rights.

Wives describe their roles in the arrangement

During the announcement, Lydia Ford described the relationship as a “polygynous marriage,” a form of polygamy in which one man has more than one wife at the same time. She introduced Shakayla as her “sister in marriage.”

Shakayla said the arrangement reflected God’s will and emphasized that she did not intend to replace Lydia or challenge her leadership within the church. She said she would continue serving as a minister rather than a pastor.

She also suggested the arrangement could attract people who had been excluded from other churches because of their own polygynous relationships.

It remains unclear whether the second marriage was legally registered or exists solely as a religious arrangement.

Ohio law prohibits bigamous marriages

Ohio law prohibits a married person from marrying another person or continuing to cohabit with that person in the state. Under Section 2919.01 of the Ohio Revised Code, violations are classified as a first-degree misdemeanor, punishable by up to 180 days in jail and a fine of up to $1,000.

LifeWorks Church identifies Israel Ford as its founder and describes him as a prophet and co-pastor alongside Lydia Ford. The congregation says it was established in 2009.

The announcement has drawn criticism online, with some commenters citing 1 Timothy 3:2, a biblical passage stating that an overseer should be faithful to his wife.