Full Breakdown
Suspension of ACNA Archbishop Steve Wood Amid Sexual Misconduct Allegations
11/19/2025, 4:45:11 AM
Core Event: Archbishop Wood's Suspension
Archbishop Steve Wood of the Anglican Church in North America (ACNA) has been suspended from his clerical duties for 60 days following allegations of sexual misconduct involving two women. The suspension, termed "inhibition," was enacted by Bishop Julian Dobbs with the consent of five senior bishops within the denomination. This decision comes as Wood faces a potential ecclesiastical trial that could lead to his defrocking.
Background & Context: ACNA's Formation and Leadership
The ACNA, established in 2009, emerged as a breakaway group from the Episcopal Church and the Anglican Church of Canada, primarily in response to those denominations' acceptance of openly LGBTQ+ clergy. Wood, who was elected archbishop in June 2024, has been a prominent figure within this small denomination, which has faced internal challenges regarding leadership and accountability.
Allegations Against Wood
The allegations against Wood include unwelcome sexual advances made towards Claire Buxton, a former children’s ministry director, who reported that Wood attempted to kiss her and gave her over $3,000 from church funds. Another unnamed woman, referred to as Jane Doe, claimed that Wood pressured her into uncomfortable situations involving alcohol. Additionally, Wood faces accusations of bullying and plagiarism from several priests within the ACNA.
Official Statements & Responses
Bishop Julian Dobbs stated that the suspension does not imply guilt or innocence regarding the allegations. He emphasized that the process aims to protect the integrity of the inquiry into Wood's conduct. The church has initiated a formal investigation, with a 10-person board of inquiry set to assess the charges against Wood. Bishop Chip Edgar of the Anglican Diocese of South Carolina expressed support for the complainants, stating that they are credible and trustworthy.
Criticism & Opposition: Concerns Over Leadership and Process
The suspension has sparked significant concern among ACNA clergy regarding the church's handling of the allegations and its internal processes. Over 140 clergy members signed an open letter calling for Wood's inhibition, urging that it be maintained until the conclusion of the trial. Kendall Harmon, a senior clergyman, criticized the leadership for failing to recognize the severity of the situation, stating that the church is in "profound trouble."
What's Next: Inquiry and Potential Trial
Following the suspension, a hearing panel convened by Bishop Dobbs will evaluate the presentment against Wood to determine if it meets the criteria for a trial. The outcome of this inquiry will be crucial in addressing the allegations and restoring trust within the ACNA. Meanwhile, Bishop David Bryan has been appointed as acting bishop for Wood's Diocese of the Carolinas during this period.
Verbatim Quotes
- “This action does not determine guilt or innocence, nor does it pre-judge any allegation or future proceeding,” — Bishop Julian Dobbs, Dean of the Province
- “Those who brought these charges forward are credible and trustworthy, and the charges they bring are serious.” — Bishop Chip Edgar, Anglican Diocese of South Carolina
- “We need a process we can trust. Communication and transparency need to be vastly improved, and quickly. Both the [Diocese of the Upper Midwest Bishop Stuart] Ruch fiasco and this mess are but symptoms. What does that tell you about the disease?” — Kendall Harmon, Anglican Diocese of South Carolina
The unfolding situation surrounding Archbishop Steve Wood highlights significant challenges within the ACNA, as it navigates allegations of misconduct and seeks to uphold accountability within its leadership.
