US-based cleric Prophet Israel Ford has introduced his second wife, Shakayla Ford, to his congregation, revealing that they had been married secretly for three years.
The announcement was made during a church service on Sunday, Oct. 25, 2026, with Ford’s first wife, Lydia Ford, introducing Shakayla to the congregation.
Lydia described their marriage as “polygynous” and referred to Shakayla as her “sister in marriage.” She also said the congregation had unknowingly benefited from Shakayla’s spiritual ministrations over the years.
Speaking to the congregation, Shakayla described the announcement as “addressing the elephant in the room.” She expressed gratitude to God for guiding their relationship, saying they believed their marriage aligned with God’s will despite differing public opinions.
After the service, Ford shared a video of the announcement on social media and defended his decision to practise polygamy. He argued that pastors who preach against the practice promote doctrines that contradict the Bible.
In his post, Ford wrote: “I would like to introduce to the world, my second wife, Shakayla Ford!!!
“As a nation we have been taught that a man should have one wife only. This is unbiblical. I encourage you to watch today’s sermon in its entirety (uploaded later this week). I understand that this is an unpopular truth that we have gotten away from and many Pastors will not preach.
“I have no plans to choose pleasing man over what God has revealed. People may not accept this and choose to disconnect, and that is ok! This life will be over soon and we can all laugh about it in Heaven.
“Until then, God bless.”
