The American Anglican Council (AAC) Board of Trustees gathered this week with gratitude for God’s faithfulness over decades of ministry and with hopeful anticipation for the season ahead. After years of visionary leadership that helped shape Anglican realignment in North America and strengthen the Global Anglican Communion, the AAC is entering a new chapter marked by a renewed focus.
Following his election as Bishop of the Diocese of Western Anglicans, the Rt. Rev. Phil Ashey formally concluded his service as President and CEO of the AAC after decades at the helm. Bishop Ashey’s leadership was instrumental in guiding the AAC through historic moments in Anglican life, including ongoing partnerships across the Global South. While stepping away from daily leadership, Bishop Ashey remains a beloved leader, trusted advisor, and committed supporter of the AAC’s mission.
Building on this strong foundation, the Board unanimously affirmed the Rev. Canon Mark Eldredge as President of the American Anglican Council. For the past year, Canon Eldredge faithfully served as Acting CEO, guiding the ministry with wisdom, steadiness, and a deep commitment to the Church. His appointment reflects the Board’s confidence in his leadership and the future of the AAC.
Canon Eldredge has long led the AAC’s Anglican Revitalization Ministries, equipping congregations for renewal, discipleship, and mission. As President, he will oversee the ministry’s strategic direction, daily operations, and engagement with partners across the Anglican Church in North America (ACNA) and the wider Communion. This comes at a time when the AAC is increasingly focused on resourcing Anglicans to develop healthy leaders, equip healthy churches, and support healthy governance for the sake of the Gospel. “These are not merely organizational transitions,” said Canon Eldredge. “They are an opportunity to renew our commitment to serving the Church with humility, clarity, and faithfulness. The AAC exists to strengthen Anglican leaders and congregations so that the Gospel of Jesus Christ may flourish in every generation.”
The Board also honored the extraordinary service of the Rt. Rev. David Anderson, who announced his retirement as Board Chair effective this October after more than 25 years of leadership. Bishop Anderson guided the AAC from its earliest days, helping establish it as a trusted voice for orthodox Anglican faith and mission during times of profound change.
The Board elected the Rt. Rev. Clark Lowenfield as Chair-Designate. Upon his retirement as Bishop of the Anglican Diocese of the Western Gulf Coast, he will assume the role of Chair. Bishop Lowenfield’s decades of pastoral, episcopal, and church-planting leadership position him well to help guide the AAC into its next season of service to the Church.
The Rev. Canon Andrew Rowell will continue as Director of Anglican Governance Ministries, strengthening constitutional clarity and healthy governance structures across dioceses and provinces. His work for the province, particularly with the anticipated changes to the Title IV canon, has been a blessing to the ACNA and reflects the AAC’s continued commitment to helping our province mature and thrive. The Rev. Clancy Nixon will continue to lead Renew, the AAC’s ministry devoted to spiritual renewal, prayer, and healing, a reminder that lasting transformation in the Church flows from repentance and communion with Christ. The Rev. Brian Pape will continue directing Reframe, the AAC’s leadership consultation and coaching ministry.
Together, this team of leaders represents the AAC’s conviction that strong institutions serve the Church best when they cultivate healthy leaders, healthy churches, and healthy governance. As it looks to the future, the AAC remains steadfast in its calling to resource Anglican leaders and congregations across North America and around the world. With gratitude for the past and confidence in God’s continued guidance, the Board believes the ministry is well positioned to serve the Church with faithfulness, stability, and hope in the years ahead.