Updated November 17, 2025
The following FAQ seeks to help C4SO parishioners understand recent news within the Anglican Church in North America (ACNA) regarding the multiple allegations against Archbishop Steve Wood and his inhibition from ordained ministry. Our goal is to provide clarity about what has happened, how our Province is responding, and how we—as followers of Jesus—can respond.
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.
New Developments
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).
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. How should we respond as parishioners?
We invite parishioners to respond with:
– Compassion: Hold space for those who are hurting or confused.
– Restraint: Avoid speculation or rumor; wait for the completion of the Church’s canonical process.
– Faith: Remember that our hope rests not in human leaders but in Jesus Christ.
If you wish to reference this news publicly, you might use language such as:
“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 C4SO takes that very seriously.”
5. What if I or someone else in our community has experienced harm?
You are not alone.
If you or someone you know has experienced abuse, misconduct, or harm within a church setting:
– Call 911 or contact local law enforcement or child protective services if the situation involves current abuse or minors.
– After contacting authorities, report the incident through C4SO’s Reporting Portal.
C4SO is committed to ensuring that every person is safe, heard and cared for. You can also reach out to your local rector, who can connect you with trauma-informed pastoral care, counseling or professional support.
6. How should we engage on social media?
Please approach online engagement with wisdom and discretion.
– Avoid speculation or commentary about the ongoing investigation.
– Focus posts on prayer, compassion and the gospel.
7. How can we pray?
We invite all C4SO members to join in prayer for:
– Truth to be revealed in full.
– Healing for those who have been harmed or affected.
– Wisdom and courage for ACNA leaders as they shepherd through this process.
– Renewal of Christ’s Church in humility and repentance.
Join others across the Province who are fasting and praying on Fridays during this season.
8. Where can I report misconduct?
“The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness has not overcome it.” — John 1:5
More questions or concerns? Reach out to us.