Recent developments within the Anglican Church in North America (ACNA) have sparked significant attention concerning its leadership. The head of the ACNA, Archbishop Steve Wood, is facing potential trial after an investigative body found probable cause for allegations against him.
The Board of Inquiry, a denominational investigative group, issued a statement indicating that Archbishop Wood should be tried for violating Canon 2, which encompasses charges like “Violation of Ordination Vows,” “Conduct giving just cause for scandal or offense,” and “Sexual Immorality.”
This recommendation has been forwarded to The Court for the Trial of a Bishop, an ACNA court consisting of seven members responsible for overseeing cases involving bishops.
Reports of alleged misconduct by Wood surfaced in The Washington Post in October. The allegations included sexual misconduct and abuse of ecclesiastical power during his tenure as rector at St. Andrew’s Anglican Church in Mt. Pleasant, South Carolina.
Among the accusers is Claire Buxton, a former children’s ministry director at St. Andrew’s. Buxton alleges that Wood engaged in inappropriate behavior, including unwanted physical contact and questionable financial dealings involving church funds.
In response to these serious allegations, a formal complaint known as a presentment was filed by four presbyters and seven laity, prompting an inquiry into the allegations.
The Most Rev. Ray Sutton announced in a letter that Wood had taken a leave of absence voluntarily. Sutton temporarily assumed oversight of the archbishop’s duties, ensuring continuity in the Church’s mission and operations.
“The Provincial staff remains committed to serving the province. They will work to advance the Church’s mission and priorities as outlined by Archbishop Wood during his absence,” Sutton stated, urging continued prayers and reflection on Romans 8:28.
Following Wood’s decision to step down temporarily, ACNA officials issued a Notice of Inhibition, suspending him from ministry for 60 days pending further action.
The Right Rev. Julian M. Dobbs emphasized that the suspension is not an indicator of guilt or innocence. It was enacted with the consent of five senior bishops: the Right Rev. Alberto Morales, the Most Rev. Foley Beach, the Right Rev. Eric Menees, the Right Rev. Kenneth Ross, and the Right Rev. Clark Lowenfield.
This article was originally written by www.christianpost.com
