A second woman has formally accused Archbishop Stephen “Steve” Wood of the Anglican Church in North America (ACNA) of sexual harassment, intensifying an already significant leadership crisis within the denomination. The new allegation has prompted renewed scrutiny of ACNA’s oversight procedures and its handling of misconduct investigations.
New Allegation Surfaces
The woman, identified publicly only as “Jane Doe 1,” filed an ecclesiastical complaint alleging that Archbishop Wood pressured her into private encounters that made her uncomfortable. According to her account, Wood repeatedly encouraged one-on-one meetings and urged her to drink alcohol with him, despite her clearly stating she felt the situation was inappropriate.
She has requested anonymity but has agreed to fully cooperate with ACNA’s formal investigative process, provided her identity remains confidential.
Response from ACNA Leadership
Archbishop Wood has denied the allegations, but has taken a voluntary leave of absence while the investigation proceeds. ACNA announced that Bishop Ray Sutton, Dean of the Province, will fulfill Wood’s canonical duties during this period.
The denomination has also indicated that it will convene a Board of Inquiry — a mixed panel of clergy and lay leaders — to determine whether the complaint warrants an ecclesiastical trial.
Background: Previous Accusations
This latest complaint follows earlier allegations brought by Claire Buxton, a former children’s ministry director at St. Andrew’s Church. Buxton accused Archbishop Wood of attempting to kiss her in his office in April 2024 and of giving her large, unexplained cash payments.
In addition to the sexual misconduct claims, Archbishop Wood has faced criticism regarding his leadership style, including accusations of staff bullying, sermon plagiarism, and misuse of church resources.
Implications for ACNA and Church Leadership
These developments place renewed pressure on ACNA to demonstrate transparency and accountability at its highest levels. Several key issues are now at the forefront:
- Church Governance: How effectively the denomination handles allegations against senior leaders will shape trust moving forward.
- Safeguarding Policies: The complaints highlight potential gaps in ACNA’s protection procedures for staff and congregants.
- Pastoral Care: The denomination must ensure proper care for complainants while also addressing concerns from church members troubled by the situation.
- Public Witness: Ongoing scandals may impact how the broader Christian community and the public perceive ACNA leadership.
Call to Prayer and Reflection
PastorsInfo encourages Christians to continue praying for:
- The women who have come forward, that they may experience healing, courage, and justice.
- Archbishop Wood and his family, for wisdom and clarity in the investigative process.
- ACNA leadership, for discernment, accountability, and a commitment to truth.
- Churches everywhere, that they may strengthen systems that protect the vulnerable and uphold Christlike integrity.