ACNA Clergy Call for Inhibition of Archbishop Steve Wood Following Allegations of Sexual Harassment and Bullying

Clergy in the Anglican Church in North America (ACNA) are urging the denomination’s archbishop, Steve Wood, to be temporarily suspended from ministry amid serious allegations of misconduct. The calls for action come after reports in The Washington Post detailed claims of sexual harassment, bullying, and plagiarism against Wood.

Wood announced his paid, voluntary leave of absence on November 3, following the publication of these allegations. However, a letter from over 80 clergy argues that such a leave is insufficient and that a canonical inhibition—temporarily suspending ministry—is necessary until the investigation concludes.

The denomination’s spokesperson stated that Wood’s leave is considered a voluntary inhibition, extending until the investigation into the allegations is complete. The ACNA’s bylaws do not specify protocols for leave of absence, but they define inhibition as a temporary suspension imposed by senior church leaders.

Bishop Chip Edgar of the ACNA Diocese of South Carolina affirmed the credibility of those who brought the charges against Wood, emphasizing that continued ministry in the face of serious allegations harms the Church’s reputation. The open letter also notes that an inhibition does not equate to guilt or innocence.

The denomination’s bylaws allow for inhibition when there are “reasonable grounds” to believe misconduct has occurred and it is in the Church’s best interest. Wood has already been charged with alleged violations of ordination vows and conduct that could cause scandal. A 10-person board of inquiry will assess these charges.

The open letter, authored by theologians and clergy, calls for ACNA bishops to consider the matter carefully and urges them to meet in council to aid in the decision. The letter will be presented to the bishops after gathering more signatures by November 23.

Source: Read the original report

Source record preserved at time of reporting.