Archbishop Steve Wood, leader of the Anglican Church of North America, is facing serious allegations. A recent report from The Washington Post details accusations of sexual harassment, bullying, and plagiarism. At least ten individuals have come forward, highlighting a troubling pattern of behavior.
One notable claim comes from Claire Buxton, a former children’s ministry director at his church. She alleges that Wood attempted to kiss her in his office just before he became archbishop. Buxton mentioned that Wood lavished her with over $3,000 from church funds and exhibited “excessive praise” toward her, raising concerns among staff members.
The formal complaint against Wood, known as a presentment in church terms, includes accusations of violating his ordination vows and engaging in sexual immorality. In his defense, Wood stated he believes the allegations lack merit and expressed trust in the church’s process for addressing such matters.
Buxton described her shock at the events, remarking on how far the church has strayed from its foundational morals. She recounts inappropriate behavior from Wood, including endearing nicknames and lavish gifts, which left her fearing for her safety.
The Anglican Church of North America was formed in 2009 after a split from the Episcopal Church over various issues, including gender and LGBTQ+ inclusivity. Since then, the denomination has seen its share of scandals. For instance, Mark Rivera, a former lay leader, was sentenced in 2023 for sexually abusing a minor and was linked to multiple similar allegations.
Recent statistics reveal that sexual misconduct claims within religious organizations have risen and this echoes a broader issue of accountability in leadership positions. In a 2021 survey published by the Pew Research Center, 27% of Americans felt that religious leaders often receive preferential treatment when facing misconduct claims, indicating widespread concerns about transparency and accountability.
Amid these challenges, Wood has asserted his commitment to transparency and has initiated efforts to protect congregants. He hired a director of safeguarding to oversee measures aimed at preventing abuse, emphasizing the need for clear protocols regarding clergy misconduct. This move comes as part of a broader overhaul of the church’s policies, aimed at simplifying the reporting process for abuses.
In conclusion, as archbishop, Wood now faces significant scrutiny. The unfolding situation reflects not just the challenges within his own church but also a larger conversation surrounding ethics, accountability, and the future of religious leadership.
For more detailed insights, check out the original report from The Washington Post here.
