Bishop Patrick Wooden’s Call to Action: Supporting Prophetess Juanita Bynum and Resisting the “Chickification” of Black Men

Bishop Patrick Wooden opened his sermon by addressing the complexity of faith and culture within the Black church and community.

He reflected on the historical context of spiritual beliefs and the importance of monotheism, referencing the Shema from Deuteronomy 6:4, which declares, “The Lord our God is one Lord.”

Wooden emphasized that true faith demands singular devotion to God, rejecting any form of idolatry or divided allegiance.

He criticized the influence of Greek-letter organizations—commonly known as the Divine Nine—on Black culture and spirituality.

Wooden highlighted that these fraternities and sororities pledge allegiance to multiple deities, none of which align with biblical teachings.

He argued that such practices are incompatible with Christianity, warning that mixing scripture with pagan rituals undermines the purity of faith.

Turning to contemporary church culture, Wooden expressed concern over the infiltration of worldly behaviors into worship spaces.

He played a clip from a recent event at William Murphy’s church, where dancing and shaking reminiscent of secular celebrations took place during service.

Wooden questioned whether such conduct is appropriate in a sacred setting, insisting that true believers should care deeply about what displeases God.

A central theme in Wooden’s message was the loss of righteous indignation among believers.

He lamented how the pursuit of worldly approval has softened the church’s stance on holiness and discipline.

“We’ve lost our stand,” he said, “and we bring the world into the house of God without shame.”

Wooden then addressed a controversial topic: the behavior and identity of Black men in the church.

He enthusiastically supported Prophetess Juanita Bynum’s recent remarks criticizing Black men for shouting and acting in ways he described as effeminate or “like girls.”

Wooden agreed wholeheartedly, urging men to reclaim their masculinity and stop the “chickification” process that, in his view, weakens the community.

He called for a clear distinction between male and female behavior, emphasizing that men should shout and worship “like men,” standing firm and strong.

Wooden expressed frustration with cultural trends that blur gender roles, noting that this confusion extends beyond the church into sports and broader society, where traditional masculinity is being eroded.

Wooden’s critique extended to personal grooming and appearance, pointing out examples of prominent Black men adopting styles he viewed as feminine, such as painted fingernails.

He warned that such trends contribute to the softening of Black masculinity and called on the church to resist them.

Beyond cultural critique, Wooden connected these issues to broader societal challenges facing the Black community, including the devastating impact of abortion and the breakdown of the traditional family structure.

He asserted that policies and societal pressures have disproportionately targeted Black men, leading to fewer men in households and weakening community foundations.

The bishop also touched on immigration policies, interpreting them as attempts to replace Black populations rather than support them.

He urged vigilance and unity among Black Americans to resist these forces and protect their future.

Throughout his sermon, Wooden maintained a tone of urgency and conviction.

He acknowledged that his words might be uncomfortable or unpopular but insisted that truth often is.

He called on believers to open their eyes and ears to the realities threatening their faith and identity.

In closing, Bishop Wooden reaffirmed his commitment to fighting for the Black community’s spiritual and cultural survival.

He urged men to embrace their God-given roles, reject worldly influences that distort their identity, and stand firm in faith and manhood.