Updated November 10, 2025

1. What is happening?

On 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.

  • 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.

2. What is the ACNA doing about it?

Upon receiving the presentment, ACNA initiated its disciplinary process, referring the case to a Board of Inquiry to determine whether an ecclesiastical trial is warranted.

On 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, according to the ACNA.

Bishop Sutton appointed Bishop Julian Dobbs, who is 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 newly formed panel will review and approve the composition of the Board of Inquiry (BOI) to ensure its impartiality, and receive its report.

Archbishop Wood also announced his retirement as rector of St. Andrew’s, describing it as previously planned.

The ACNA has emphasized that Archbishop Wood is accountable to the same canonical standards and disciplinary process as any other leader accused of misconduct.

The Province 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 continues his leave of absence pending the resolution of recent allegations involving abuse of power and unwanted sexual advances, including a second complaint of sexual harassment. We grieve this news and 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.”

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.

Please remember that all statements from Archbishop Wood are made independently by him or his legal counsel, not on behalf of the Province.

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 light shines in the darkness, and the darkness has not overcome it. — John 1:5