A video from a Sunday service has gone viral after showing a pastor angrily confronting a woman in his congregation for what he called an “unworthy donation” — an act that has since sparked nationwide outrage and heated debate online.
The incident, which took place at a church in Atlanta, Georgia, shows Pastor William Carter (name changed for privacy) stopping his sermon to call out a female church member who had recently contributed $1,200 to the ministry’s fundraiser.
In the now-viral clip, the pastor can be heard saying, “After all the blessings you’ve received, $1,200? That’s what God is worth to you?” as the stunned congregation looked on.
The woman, identified only as Sister Elaine, can be seen lowering her head in embarrassment while other churchgoers exchange uneasy glances.
“I couldn’t believe what I was hearing,” said one church member. “Tithing is supposed to be from the heart, not a price tag.”
The clip quickly spread across social media platforms, where thousands condemned the pastor’s behavior as manipulative and disrespectful. Many called for accountability, arguing that such actions drive people away from faith communities.
“This is why people are losing trust in the church,” wrote one user on X (formerly Twitter). “No one should be humiliated for what they give — especially not in front of others.”
In response to the backlash, Pastor Carter issued a statement during a follow-up service, saying his words were “taken out of context” and that he had only been “encouraging generosity.” However, his apology did little to calm the criticism.
“If that was encouragement, it sure didn’t feel like it,” Sister Elaine told local reporters. “Giving is between me and God — not a performance for anyone.”
Church leadership later released a joint statement clarifying that donations are voluntary and that they “do not condone public shaming of any kind.” Still, several members have reportedly stopped attending services in protest.
Religious scholars have weighed in on the controversy, noting that financial transparency and respect for donors are vital for maintaining trust within modern congregations.
“Faith should never be transactional,” said Dr. Maria Jennings, a professor of theology at Emory University. “When leaders treat donations as a measure of devotion, it crosses an ethical line.”
The viral moment has reignited conversations about prosperity preaching — a growing movement in some churches that links financial giving to spiritual favor. While supporters argue it encourages discipline and gratitude, critics warn it often leads to guilt and exploitation.
As for Sister Elaine, she says she has forgiven the pastor but plans to attend another church.
“I still believe in God,” she said softly. “But I also believe giving should come from love — not pressure.”
The church has since disabled comments on its official pages as the debate continues to spark discussions about accountability, faith, and the true meaning of generosity.
