(Photo: YouTube/Christchurch Montgomery)
The Anglican Church in North America (ACNA) faces a leadership change as its archbishop steps down temporarily amid misconduct allegations. Archbishop Steve Wood has opted for a voluntary leave of absence during an ongoing disciplinary process, as confirmed by the ACNA Executive Committee’s approval of his request last Saturday.
In an official letter, the Most Rev. Ray Sutton, dean of the Province and Ecumenical Affairs, announced Wood’s leave. Sutton has been appointed by Wood to fulfill the archbishop’s duties during his absence, with Bishop Julian Dobbs stepping into the role of dean of Provincial Affairs.
Sutton emphasized the continuity of the church’s mission, stating, “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 and will work closely with Bishop Dobbs and me during this time.” He urged the community to offer prayers for all involved, quoting, “God works all things together for the good of those who love him and are called according to his purpose” (Romans 8:28).
This development follows a report by The Washington Post last month, which outlined accusations of sexual misconduct and abuse of power against Wood from his time as rector at St. Andrew’s Anglican Church in Mt. Pleasant, South Carolina.
Among the claims, Claire Buxton, a former children’s ministry director at St. Andrew’s, alleged that Wood made inappropriate physical advances towards her, including an attempt to kiss her in his office. She also reported receiving unexplained monetary gifts from church funds prior to the incident.
These allegations prompted four ACNA presbyters and seven lay members to file an official complaint, known as a presentment, leading to a board of inquiry to assess whether a denominational trial is warranted.
Mike Hughes, the senior warden at St. Andrew’s, communicated via an official letter that the church’s leadership is unable to comment on the situation as it unfolds.
Founded in 2009, ACNA was established by members departing from The Episcopal Church and the Anglican Church of Canada over theological differences. Today, ACNA comprises over 1,000 churches and 130,000 adherents.
This article was originally written by www.christiantoday.com
