1. What happened?
On Monday, October 20, the Anglican Church in North America (ACNA) received a complaint alleging misconduct by Archbishop Steve Wood, who also serves as Bishop of the Diocese of the Carolinas.
The allegations include abuse of power and unwanted sexual advances during his tenure as Rector of St. Andrew’s Anglican Church. These allegations do not involve his service as Archbishop of the Province.
The ACNA’s provincial leadership has acknowledged receipt of the complaint and has initiated its established canonical process for review and response. The next step is the ACNA forming a neutral Board of Inquiry that will determine appropriate ways forward.
2. What is the ACNA doing about it?
Provincial leadership—including the College of Bishops and the Provincial Response Team—has begun its formal process to investigate and discern next steps. This process prioritizes truth, accountability, fairness and care for those affected.
C4SO is not directly involved in this investigation but supports the ACNA’s commitment to transparency and justice.
3. What does this mean for C4SO?
While this news affects the broader Anglican family, C4SO’s mission and ministry continue unchanged. We are grieved by these allegations and committed to fostering safe, healthy and trustworthy communities where Christ’s character is reflected in all relationships and leadership.
We are praying 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 right way to communicate locally. If you choose to address this publicly, we recommend language that is:
- Factual: Share only what has been publicly confirmed.
- Compassionate: Acknowledge pain and confusion.
- Centered on Jesus: Remind your people that our hope rests not in human leaders, but in the unchanging faithfulness of Christ.
Suggested wording for a public mention:
“This week, the Anglican Church in North America received a complaint alleging misconduct by Archbishop Steve Wood that took place before his tenure as Archbishop. We grieve this news and pray for truth, justice and healing for all involved. We expect the Province to commit fully to due process and accountability in this matter, and we will do our part to seek justice and accountability where appropriate. Please join us in prayer for everyone involved.”
5. What should I do if someone in my congregation asks hard questions or shares their own story of harm?
- Listen and believe. Create a safe space for people to speak.
- Avoid speculation. Stick to what’s publicly known.
- Report appropriately. If someone discloses abuse or misconduct, follow your state’s mandatory reporting laws and visit C4SO’s Reporting Portal.
- Offer care. Connect individuals to trauma-informed pastors, counselors or spiritual directors.
6. What if the media contacts me?
If you receive inquiries, feel free to reach out to our Communications Director, Andrea Bailey Willits, if you need assistance. You may also contact the Provincial communications team: Calley Mangum or Kate Harris.
7. How should I engage on social media?
Please read and comment with discretion.
8. How can we pray?
We invite all C4SO churches to pray for:
- Truth to be revealed in full.
- Healing for those harmed or affected.
- Wisdom for ACNA leaders as they navigate this process.
- The renewal of Christ’s Church in humility, repentance and grace.
9. How can clergy find support?
- Reach out to Bishop Jeff or Bishop Brian if you need to talk.
- We can connect you with spiritual directors, therapists or prayer support.
- Monday’s Office Hours will provide time for open conversation, prayer and next steps.
In all of this, we remember:
“The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness has not overcome it.”
— John 1:5