Archbishop Stephen “Steve” Wood, leader of the Anglican Church in North America (ACNA), has been formally inhibited from ministry after more than 140 clergy signed a public letter urging that he be restricted during an ongoing misconduct investigation. The announcement, released November 16, confirms that Wood is now temporarily suspended under ACNA canonical procedures.
Why the Suspension Was Issued
Wood had previously taken a voluntary paid leave of absence on November 3. However, the volume of clergy demanding a formal inhibition led the provincial leadership to enact a 60-day suspension, which can be extended as needed. ACNA’s canons state that inhibition does not determine guilt or innocence but ensures the integrity of the investigative process.
The action was approved by five senior bishops, with Bishop Julian Dobbs assuming oversight as acting Dean of the Province during the investigation.
The Allegations Against Wood
Multiple complaints have been lodged against Archbishop Wood, including:
- Sexual misconduct involving inappropriate interactions with at least two women
- Bullying and abuse of power, reported by clergy who served under his leadership
- Plagiarism, including alleged unauthorized use of other pastors’ sermons
The allegations triggered significant concern across ACNA dioceses, prompting clergy to request the highest level of accountability.
Leadership Changes Inside ACNA
Bishop Ray Sutton, previously serving as Dean of the Province, stepped aside citing health challenges. Bishop Julian Dobbs has temporarily taken over the role and is overseeing the presentment process. A 10-member Board of Inquiry has been formed to examine the allegations and determine whether the case will proceed to an ecclesiastical trial.
Impact on the Denomination
The suspension marks a pivotal moment for the ACNA, raising questions about:
- Internal accountability at the highest levels
- Clergy confidence in denominational leadership
- Public perception of how the church handles misconduct allegations
- Long-term reforms regarding safeguarding and oversight
Church members and clergy nationwide are watching closely as the investigation continues.
A Call to Prayer
PastorsInfo encourages believers to pray for:
- The women who came forward
- Archbishop Wood and his family
- ACNA leaders handling the investigation
- Congregations navigating uncertainty during this crisis
Sources (Links):
- https://religionnews.com/2025/11/17/acna-archbishop-steve-wood-suspended-after-sexual-misconduct-allegations/
- https://anglicanchurch.net/press-release-archbishop-announces-temporary-leave-of-absence/
- https://www.christianpost.com/news/acna-archbishop-temporarily-suspended-as-investigation-continues.html
- https://religionnews.com/2025/11/14/80-acna-clergy-and-counting-call-for-inhibition-of-archbishop-steve-wood/
- https://ministrywatch.com/acna-archbishop-steve-wood-suspended/
- https://juicyecumenism.com/2025/11/17/anglican-archbishop-inhibited/