Updated December 12, 2025
What has happened / is happening?
Here is a timeline of events.
October 23, 2025: The Washington Post reported that Archbishop Steve Wood, leader of the Anglican Church in North America (ACNA), is the subject of a formal presentment—a canonical complaint alleging sexual misconduct and other violations of church canons.
Summary of Allegations
- The presentment, filed October 20, 2025, centers on claims by Claire Buxton, a former children’s ministry director at St. Andrew’s Church in Mount Pleasant, South Carolina, which is part of the Anglican Diocese of the Carolinas.
- Buxton alleges that between 2021 and 2024, Wood made inappropriate comments and gestures toward her, culminating in an unwanted advance in April 2024, when he allegedly attempted to kiss her.
- She also reported receiving about $3,500 in unsolicited payments from church funds over a 13-month period.
- Additional accusations in the presentment include plagiarized sermons, bullying of staff, and misuse of church resources.
- On November 7, 2025, The Washington Post reported that a second woman had come forward with allegations of sexual harassment, and the presentment was amended to include her affidavit and additional testimony from former colleagues.
Archbishop Wood has stated he believes the allegations “lack merit” and has expressed trust in the ACNA’s canonical process.
November 4, 2025: The ACNA reported that Archbishop Wood took a voluntary, paid leave of absence from his roles as Archbishop and Bishop of the Carolinas. Bishop Ray Sutton, Dean of the Province, was appointed to oversee the Archbishop’s duties during the investigation. To strive for objectivity in the proceedings, Bishop Sutton formally recused himself from all matters pertaining to Archbishop Wood’s Board of Inquiry and any subsequent disciplinary process.
Bishop Sutton appointed Bishop Julian Dobbs, who was serving as Dean of Provincial Affairs, to form a three-member panel of bishops to represent Bishop Sutton in any action he may be required to take in the disciplinary process against Archbishop Wood. This panel was tasked with reviewing and approving the composition of the Board of Inquiry to ensure its impartiality, and receiving its report.
November 15, 2025: The College of Bishops met and received the resignation of Bishop Ray Sutton as Dean of the Province. In his statement, Bishop Sutton cited the unprecedented dynamics of the current moment and serious health issues as reasons for his resignation.
Following consultation and unanimous affirmation of the College of Bishops, Bishop Julian Dobbs was appointed as the new Dean of the Province on November 15, 2025.
November 16, 2025: Archbishop Stephen Wood was inhibited from the exercise of ordained ministry in the ACNA. An inhibition is a suspension from ministry but does not determine guilt or innocence, nor does it pre-judge any allegation or future proceeding. The canons provide for the imposition of an inhibition when it is determined to be in the best interests of the Church.
The inhibition was imposed by Bishop Julian Dobbs, the newly appointed Dean of the Province, following a presentment received by the College of Bishops and with the written consent of five active senior diocesan bishops (excluding the Archbishop and the Dean).
New Developments
December 12, 2025: The Board of Inquiry determined there is probable cause for these charges to be considered in trial. The matter will now be referred to the Court of the Trial for a Bishop.
2. What is the ACNA doing about it?
Upon receiving the presentment on October 20, 2025, the ACNA initiated its disciplinary process, referring the case to a Board of Inquiry to determine whether an ecclesiastical trial is warranted. The Board of Inquiry has been formed and begun its work.
The ACNA emphasized that Archbishop Wood is accountable to the same canonical standards and disciplinary process as any other leader accused of misconduct.
The ACNA stated that it remains committed to:
- A rigorous, fair and transparent process under Title IV of the Constitution and Canons.
- Ongoing Title IV reform to improve clarity and consistency in disciplinary matters.
- A posture of truth, accountability, fairness and care for those affected.
- Upholding best practices in safeguarding throughout the Church.
3. What does this mean for C4SO?
We are grieved by these allegations and remain committed to cultivating safe, healthy and trustworthy communities for the sake of others. As the body of Christ, we have a spiritual mandate to protect those most vulnerable and to ensure the welfare and safety of all people at our churches. We strive to foster a healthy and nurturing environment in which every person can grow in relationship with Jesus Christ. We pray for truth to come to light, and for justice and healing for all involved.
4. What should we say to our congregations?
Each rector and vestry may discern the best way to communicate locally. If you choose to address this, please ensure your message is:
- Factual—Share only what has been officially confirmed.
- Compassionate—Acknowledge the pain and confusion many feel.
- Centered on Jesus—Remind your people that our hope rests not in human leaders but in Christ.
Suggested language:
“Archbishop Steve Wood has been inhibited from the exercise of ordained ministry in the Anglican Church in North America pending the resolution of allegations involving abuse of power and unwanted sexual advances, including a second complaint of sexual harassment. An inhibition is a suspension from ministry but does not determine guilt or innocence. We pray for truth, justice and healing for all involved. The Church has a God-given responsibility to nurture and protect His people, especially those who are most vulnerable and in need of protection, and we take that very seriously.”
In addition, consider providing space for questions, lament and prayer at your church, using resources like The Prayer for the Unity of the Church or For a Province or Diocese from the Book of Common Prayer (2019). Join others across the Province who are fasting and praying on Fridays during this season.
5. What should I do if someone in my congregation asks hard questions or shares their own story of harm?
- Listen and believe. Create space for people to speak safely and without judgment. Accept the allegations at face value.
- Avoid speculation. Stick to publicly confirmed facts.
- Report appropriately. If someone discloses abuse or misconduct, follow your state’s mandatory reporting laws and visit C4SO’s Reporting Portal for diocesan procedures.
- Offer care. Connect individuals to trauma-informed pastors, counselors or spiritual directors for ongoing support.
6. What if the media contacts me?
You may respond at your discretion. If you need assistance, contact Andrea Bailey Willits, C4SO’s Communications Director.
7. How should I engage on social media?
- Proceed with wisdom and restraint.
- Avoid speculation or commentary on the process.
- Focus on prayer, compassion and the Church’s mission.
- Model calm, empathy and confidence in God’s work through this season.
8. How can we pray?
We invite all C4SO churches to join in prayer for:
- Truth to be revealed in full.
- Healing for those who have been harmed or affected.
- Wisdom for ACNA leaders as they shepherd through this process.
- Renewal of Christ’s Church in humility and repentance.
Provincial staff are joining together each Friday to fast and pray. C4SO clergy and congregations are invited to join in this rhythm of prayer and fasting for the unity and renewal of the Church.
9. How can clergy find support?
Reach out to Bishop Jeff or Bishop Brian for conversation, prayer or pastoral guidance. They can connect you with spiritual directors, therapists or trauma-informed care resources.
Remember, it is normal for clergy and parishioners to experience a range of emotions—grief, confusion, frustration—during this time. Make space for one another to lament and process with gentleness and grace.
In all of this, we remember:
“The LORD is near to those who are brokenhearted and will save those who are crushed in spirit.” — Psalm 34:18