US Pastor Faces Backlash for Publicly Shaming Pregnant Teen in Church

A Virginia pastor made a pregnant teen publicly apologize to the church, sparking outrage online.
Critics condemned the public shaming, while others, including the girl’s grandmother, defended the church.
The viral video has reignited debates about stigma and support for unwed mothers in religious communities.

A viral video showing a teenage girl apologizing to her church congregation for being pregnant has sparked widespread outrage and debate on social media.

The incident occurred at True Vine Apostolic Church in Hampton, Virginia, led by Bishop Terry Jackson and First Lady Sister Paulette Jackson.

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In the video shared by journalist Jemele Hill, the emotional teen addresses the congregation, saying, “I want to apologize to everybody in here because I am pregnant… I’m sorry y’all. I just hope that y’all all forgive me.”

The congregation applauded as she concluded her remarks, requesting prayers.

Bishop Jackson followed with comments reinforcing the church’s stance. “If you sin, you don’t wait till the baby comes to repent… Ain’t no baby showers going on. When you have a baby out of wedlock, you don’t get a baby shower, and nobody at this church should attend one,” he stated.

The video, initially shared on Instagram, drew widespread condemnation, with many expressing support for the teen and criticizing the church’s actions.

Media personality Jemele Hill commented, “The only person who should be ashamed in this scenario is the pastor. I hope she finds a new church home.”

Television host Sunny Hostin extended support, offering to host a baby shower for the teen.

“Your baby will be celebrated and loved,” she wrote.

As the controversy grew, Dee Myles, who identified herself as the teen’s grandmother, defended the church and its actions in a Facebook comment.

“My daughter willingly approached the congregation and was welcomed and embraced with open arms,” she wrote. “You are disrupting my church, my beliefs, and disrespecting my pastor.”