Israel Ford, the founder of LifeWorks Church in Cleveland, Ohio, has openly introduced a second wife, with his first wife and co-pastor, Lydia, standing alongside him as the relationship was announced to the congregation.

According to the report, Lydia presented fellow church member and minister Shakayla Talley, now known as Shakayla Ford, during a service. The announcement was said to have drawn applause from some worshippers, while others reacted with surprise. Lydia described their setup as a “polygynous marriage,” meaning a man married to more than one wife.

She told the congregation that Shakayla was already well known to members through her ministry. “My husband, our prophet, he has a second wife,” Lydia said, before introducing Shakayla as her “sister in marriage.” Israel later posted an announcement on Instagram, introducing Shakayla as his second wife and justifying the arrangement based on his interpretation of scripture.

He argued that the idea that a man must have only one wife was “unbiblical” and urged followers to watch his sermon for a full explanation of his stance. His remarks reflect his religious beliefs. The report does not confirm the legal status of the relationship.

Israel admitted that the announcement could cause some people to walk away from him or the church, but said he was prepared to stand by his convictions. Israel and Lydia founded LifeWorks Church in 2009. The church says its mission is to help families build a relationship with Christ and serve with their time, abilities and resources.