ACNA Archbishop Steve Wood Accused of Sexual Misconduct in Formal Complaint

Archbishop Steve Wood of the Anglican Church of North America faces allegations of sexual misconduct, harassment, and bullying, according to a report by The Washington Post. The accusations, signed by at least 10 individuals, mark another troubling chapter for the denomination, which has already endured multiple controversies. The charges include violations of ordination vows, conduct that could cause scandal or offense, and sexual immorality.

Claire Buxton, a former children’s ministry director at St. Andrew’s Church in Mount Pleasant, South Carolina, where Wood served as rector, told the Post that Wood attempted to kiss her in his office in April 2024, just before he was elected to lead the denomination. Buxton also claimed that Wood gave her over $3,000 from church funds and that church employees had noted his “excessive praise and fondness” for her. Other priests have accused Wood of plagiarizing sermons and bullying staff before his appointment as archbishop.

The formal complaint, known as a presentment, was submitted to Wood and other bishops. In a statement, Wood denied the allegations, stating, “I do not believe these allegations have any merit.” He continued to serve as bishop of the Diocese of the Carolinas while the matter is under review. Wood’s response reflects the denomination’s ongoing efforts to navigate complex legal and ethical processes.

Buxton described the allegations as shocking, expressing dismay at what she sees as a departure from the denomination’s moral and spiritual principles. “It’s just bizarre to me how far we — the Anglican Church in North America and its leadership — have gotten away from basic morals and principles,” she said. Her account highlights the personal and institutional tensions within the denomination.

The Post also reported that a rector in Wood’s diocese wrote a letter to him in 2019, questioning his moral authority to serve as bishop. The rector accused Wood of plagiarizing sermons, publicly cursing at colleagues, and using a $60,000 truck provided by the diocese for church visits. The rector left Wood’s diocese shortly after making these claims, underscoring a pattern of concern over Wood’s conduct.

Buxton recounted that Wood began acting inappropriately with her in fall 2021, showering her with money, calling her “Claire Bear,” and offering to send her to a luxury resort. She feared a physical relationship and confronted him in April 2024. Wood reportedly told her, “You know how specia

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