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Pastor Sparks Outrage by Publicly Shaming Pregnant Lady for Out-of-Wedlock Pregnancy at Virginia Church

Published by Tope Fakinlede on January 12th, 2025.

Pastor Sparks Outrage by Publicly Shaming Pregnant Lady for Out-of-Wedlock Pregnancy at Virginia Church

A video that has gone viral shows Pastor Terry Jackson of True Vine Apostolic Church in Hampton, Virginia, reprimanding a young woman for being pregnant outside of marriage. The footage, which surfaced following a Sunday service, has ignited a heated debate online.

In the video, the visibly emotional woman stands before the congregation as Pastor Jackson instructs her to apologize. With tears in her eyes, she says, “I want to apologize to everybody in here because I am pregnant. I’m sorry, y’all. I just hope that y’all forgive me. Keep on praying for me.”

Jackson, however, responds with sharp criticism, calling her actions “out of order.” He further emphasizes that the church will not hold any celebrations for her pregnancy, including a baby shower. “If you sin, you don’t wait to repent later. We don’t condone sin. Ain’t no baby showers. That’s what you lose when you have a baby out of wedlock,” he states. “Thank God that God didn’t take you out of here,” he adds.

The video has sparked widespread criticism, with many accusing the pastor of publicly shaming the woman. Others, however, have defended his actions, claiming that such discipline is necessary for maintaining order.

Social media responses have been divided. Journalist Jemele Hill criticized the pastor, saying on Instagram, “The only person who should be ashamed in this scenario is the pastor. I hope she finds a new church home.” A commenter, blk_charleston, questioned, “Why does she need people’s forgiveness? Did they die for her sins?”

On the other hand, some individuals supported the pastor. One user, @bythebookjulie, tweeted, “The Pastor of True Vine is a hundred percent correct. Sometimes it takes shaming bad choices that will affect the lives of everyone else and her future generations!”

Others pointed out the need for grace and empathy. One commenter, @spottedlamb777, tweeted, “She confessed her sin, the baby is coming, it’s time to support that girl and her child.” Another, @do5925, remarked, “Show grace, with the understanding that we all have missed the mark of godliness in our lives. Love restores.”

While Pastor Jackson has not yet addressed the controversy publicly, the incident has sparked renewed conversations about how church leaders should approach sensitive issues within their congregations. The church’s mission, according to its website, is to teach the gospel, administer baptisms, and lead people to Christ.