ACNA’s Archbishop Steve Wood Announces a Temporary Leave of Absence Pending the Resolution of Recent Allegations
Mount Pleasant, SC – Archbishop Stephen Wood has decided to take a voluntary leave of absence pending the resolution of proceedings to address recent allegations brought against him. The allegations, which predate his election to the office of Archbishop in June 2024, are being taken with the utmost seriousness by ACNA leadership. The Church is committed to a thorough, fair, and transparent canonical process following established procedures within our ecclesiastical canons.
While the investigation proceeds, Archbishop Wood will step aside from all official duties and responsibilities to avoid any distraction from the Church’s mission and to uphold the integrity of this process. Bishop Ray Sutton, who serves as Dean of the Province, will assume all canonical responsibilities and duties as Archbishop during this time. He will be assisted by Bishop Julian Dobbs, who has been appointed Dean of Provincial Affairs.
ACNA remains steadfast in its commitment to accountability and to establishing and upholding best practice standards to protect those who experience harm from the Church.
Archbishop Wood wrote a pastoral letter to ACNA members and clergy announcing this decision, which can be read here. Dean of the Province, Bishop Ray Sutton, has provided additional guidance in a letter he posted here.
Further updates will be provided as appropriate.
Press Inquiries — Contact Content and Media Relations Manager Calley Mangum at cmangum@acna.org or 910-787-1048.
