Steve Wood, leader of the Anglican Church in North America, is set to face a church trial beginning July 20 over a series of serious misconduct allegations.
The charges against Wood include sexual harassment, bullying, and plagiarism, alongside formal accusations of violating ordination vows, engaging in conduct causing “scandal or offense,” and alleged sexual immorality.
The church court also confirmed that Wood has filed a motion to dismiss the case, with arguments scheduled to be heard on May 7.
Wood was suspended from ministry in November following mounting pressure, including an open letter signed by more than 140 clergy members calling for action. Prior to his suspension, he had already taken voluntary leave after allegations surfaced publicly.
Reports first brought forward accusations from a former church employee, who claimed Wood made unwanted advances and inappropriate gestures. Another woman also alleged that he placed her in uncomfortable situations. Wood has denied most of the claims but has agreed to undergo the church’s disciplinary process.
The situation marks one of the most high-profile disciplinary cases within the Anglican Church in North America, a denomination formed in 2009 after breaking away from other Anglican bodies over theological disagreements.
Church leaders have called for prayers and unity as the case unfolds, while also emphasizing the importance of a fair and transparent process.
The trial comes at a time when the denomination is already under scrutiny for how it handles misconduct cases. Recent controversies involving other bishops have prompted internal reviews and calls for reform.
A broader overhaul of the church’s disciplinary system is currently under consideration, aimed at improving how complaints are handled and ensuring accountability at all levels of leadership.
