Bishop Wooden Defends His Position Amid Mega Pastors’ Silence: A Call for Courage and Truth

Bishop Wooden opened his recent message by reflecting on his near-death experience just a year ago.

After spending 18 days in the hospital fighting for his life, he now finds himself battling a different kind of struggle—a fight for what he calls God’s truth.

Addressing the controversy that erupted following his comments, Wooden was quick to clarify that his words were misinterpreted and that he never aimed his remarks at the woman many assumed.

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He expressed frustration over the spread of misinformation and the use of social media to distort his message.

One particularly mocking attack involved a meme showing him in a dress, created with artificial intelligence.

Wooden responded with humor and resilience, admitting he would make an “ugly woman” and dismissing the meme as a weak attempt to undermine him.

He criticized the anonymity of the creator, suggesting that those who resort to such tactics lack courage.

Wooden also touched on the surprising support he received—not from many church leaders, but from fraternities and sororities, groups he noted often face criticism themselves.

Meet Bishop Wooden - Upper Room Church of God in Christ

He remarked wryly that these organizations “stick together better than the sanctified,” highlighting a perceived lack of solidarity among religious leaders during his controversy.

One key issue Wooden addressed was the argument made by Pastor Jamal Bryant regarding a controversial dress worn by his wife.

Bryant claimed he “bought the dress,” implying his approval and responsibility.

However, Wooden revealed that Karri Bryant actually purchased the dress herself and Jamal only saw it at the event, casting doubt on Bryant’s justification.

Wooden suggested this discrepancy was part of why he spoke out, feeling that Bryant had put his wife in a vulnerable position.

Archbishop Steve Wood: The Pastor Primate - Anglican Compass

Despite the backlash, Wooden refused to label the criticism as true persecution.

He reminded his listeners that genuine persecution involves physical suffering and risking one’s life for the faith—not online insults or memes.

He urged believers to develop resilience, to be like God who never reveals His hunger or weakness, and to stand firm in the face of opposition.

Drawing from scripture, Wooden acknowledged that while no one is immune to feeling hurt or discouraged, spiritual warriors must not allow attacks to defeat them.

He emphasized that too much is at stake to be brought down by petty criticisms or social media noise.

ACNA Archbishop Steve Wood Accused of Sexual Misconduct - Word&Way

Throughout his message, Wooden balanced humor, honesty, and conviction.

He admitted human vulnerability but called for strength, urging his audience not to be “punked” or driven to their knees by critics.

His defense was not just about himself but a broader call for courage among believers facing cultural and spiritual battles.

The silence of many mega pastors during this controversy did not go unnoticed.

Wooden’s willingness to speak out highlights a division within the church leadership—between those willing to confront uncomfortable truths and those who remain silent.

"The Bible Warns of This" | Bishop Patrick L. Wooden, Sr.

His message challenges religious leaders to be bold, accountable, and united in defending biblical truth.

As the conversation continues, Bishop Wooden’s stance serves as a reminder of the cost of discipleship in a world quick to judge and slow to understand.

His call to fight for God’s truth, regardless of opposition, resonates as a powerful testament to faith and perseverance.