Archbishop Stephen Wood Takes Leave While Facing Misconduct Claims

Archbishop Stephen Wood of the Anglican Church in North America (ACNA) has taken a leave of absence while facing misconduct allegations. The ACNA, a conservative denomination that separated from the more liberal Episcopal Church over 15 years ago, announced Wood’s leave on Monday. He will remain on paid leave as he awaits the outcome of a church disciplinary process initiated by a formal complaint, known as a presentment.

The presentment, which has not yet been made public, reportedly includes allegations of inappropriate conduct toward a former children’s ministry director at his parish in 2024. According to an investigative report by The Washington Post, the complaint also claims Wood made other comments and acted in ways that made the woman uncomfortable since 2021. Additionally, the report alleges that Wood made thousands of dollars in payments to her from church funds, bullied staff, and plagiarized sermons.

In a statement, Wood categorically denied the specific accusation of attempted physical contact, stating, “I believe the charges against me lack merit.” He emphasized his commitment to the process while maintaining his stance on the allegations.

Wood’s leave of absence also marks his retirement as bishop of the Diocese of the Carolinas and rector of St. Andrew’s Church in Mount Pleasant, South Carolina. The allegations against him center on actions taken while he was bishop, prior to his appointment as archbishop.

Under ACNA rules, a board of inquiry is appointed to assess whether a presentment should proceed to an ecclesiastical trial. No decision on this matter has been announced yet. The process typically takes between a few weeks and three months, according to the denomination.

This case represents the most high-profile disciplinary action in the denomination’s history. The ACNA has experienced ongoing leadership turmoil in recent years, including the recent ecclesiastical trial of Bishop Stewart Ruch III of the Diocese of the Upper Midwest, who faces charges of abuse of ecclesiastical power.

Source: Read the original report