Dear Brothers and Sisters in Christ,
In recent days, many of you have become aware of reports concerning Archbishop Steve Wood and a complaint that has been brought forward regarding his time as Bishop of the Diocese of the Carolinas and Rector of St. Andrew’s Church in Mt. Pleasant, South Carolina. This situation has naturally raised questions and concerns across our Province, and I want to take a few moments to help clarify what we know and to encourage us as we walk through this together in prayer and faith.
Earlier last week, Archbishop Wood and Bishop Ray Sutton, along with a small number of bishops, were notified of a formal complaint alleging misconduct related to the Archbishop’s earlier ministry at St. Andrew’s. The complaint was signed by four presbyters and seven lay members and shared with the Provincial Office. The allegations do not concern any actions during Archbishop Wood’s service as Archbishop of the Anglican Church in North America, which began in June 2024.
Following the proper canonical procedures, Bishop Ray Sutton, who serves as Dean of the Province, ensured that the complaint was circulated to the full College of Bishops and the Executive Committee. The Provincial Office has been in contact with Bishop Sutton and continues to support him as he provides oversight and guidance in this matter. At this point, the complaint is in the process of being validated according to the standards set forth in Canon IV.4.1. Once that validation is complete, a Board of Inquiry will be appointed to review the case. Archbishop Wood has recused himself from any role in this process, and Bishop Sutton will oversee it on behalf of the Province.
As the American Anglican Council (AAC) follows this canonical process, it is important for us to remember why these steps exist. The Church’s discipline is not meant to be punitive or political. It is a biblical means of seeking truth, justice, and restoration. Scripture calls us to handle accusations and conflicts in a way that honors both truth and grace, protecting the dignity of all involved. The Province is following the same careful process that applies to every bishop, priest, deacon, or lay leader within the ACNA.
We take seriously every accusation of misconduct within our Church. The credibility of the gospel we proclaim depends, in part, on the integrity of our leaders and our willingness to be accountable to one another. At the same time, we must protect the fairness and confidentiality that such a process requires. To speculate about the allegations or to make judgments before the proper investigation concludes would not serve the cause of truth or the unity of Christ’s body.
We are also aware that this matter has received wide coverage in the media, including articles in the Washington Post and other outlets. Some of these reports include commentary and conjecture that can easily deepen confusion or pain. I urge all of us to resist the temptation to let news headlines shape our reactions. The truth will come to light through the careful and transparent process our canons provide. Our responsibility, in the meantime, is to walk in humility and to pray.
Archbishop Wood has publicly stated that he does not believe the allegations have merit and that he trusts the canonical process to bring clarity and truth. In a letter to his congregation at St. Andrew’s, he expressed his confidence that God will use even this difficult season for His glory and the strengthening of His Church. That is the posture of faith to which we are all called in moments like this.
The AAC exists to build up healthy leaders, healthy churches, and healthy governance. Moments of testing such as this remind us why each of those areas matters. Healthy leaders are those who submit to accountability with integrity. Healthy churches respond to crisis with prayer and patience, not fear or gossip. Healthy governance ensures that truth and justice are pursued through clear, fair, and consistent processes.
Let us also remember that behind every headline and every statement are real people: those who have come forward, those who are accused, and those who are affected in their parishes and dioceses. Each one needs the compassion of Christ. The Church is not at her best when she points fingers or takes sides but when she comes together in repentance, humility, and intercession.
Therefore, I am asking each of you, in your congregations and homes, to join me in prayer during this time. Pray for Archbishop Wood, for Bishop Sutton and those who will serve on the Board of Inquiry, for the complainants, and for the many faithful believers who are confused or hurting as they read these reports. Pray that the Holy Spirit would bring truth into the light, heal what has been wounded, and strengthen the witness of our Church.
Above all, let us fix our eyes on Jesus Christ, who alone is our righteousness. The Church belongs to Him. Our hope does not rest in any one leader or office but in the faithfulness of the Lord who promises to build His Church and to make all things new. Even now, may His peace guard our hearts and minds as we seek to follow Him together.
Faithfully yours in Christ,
Canon Mark Eldredge