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Archbishop Steve Wood, leader of the Anglican Church of North America (ACNA), is at the center of a growing controversy following allegations of sexual harassment, bullying, and plagiarism. A report by The Washington Post on Thursday revealed that a formal complaint, signed by at least 10 clergy and laypeople, accuses Wood of serious misconduct. The charges, known as a presentment in church law, have raised questions about leadership integrity within the conservative denomination.
Claire Buxton, a former children’s ministry director at St. Andrew’s Church in Mount Pleasant, South Carolina, where Wood serves as rector, has come forward with troubling allegations. Buxton claims that in April 2024, shortly before Wood became archbishop, he attempted to kiss her in his office. She also revealed that Wood had given her over $3,000 from church funds and displayed what she described as “excessive praise and fondness,” behavior that reportedly drew concern from other church staff.
Buxton recounted further incidents of inappropriate behavior, including being called by pet names such as “Claire Bear,” being offered trips to luxury resorts, and receiving unsolicited money. She expressed fear that Wood was attempting to initiate a physical relationship, saying, “It’s just bizarre to me how far we—the Anglican Church in North America and its leadership—have gotten away from basic morals and principles.”
The allegations extend beyond Buxton’s account. Priests within Wood’s diocese have accused him of plagiarizing sermons, publicly cursing at colleagues, and misusing church resources, including a $60,000 diocesan truck. In 2019, a rector wrote a letter questioning Wood’s moral authority, citing these behaviors before eventually leaving the diocese.
The formal presentment submitted in September 2025 accuses Wood of violating ordination vows, sexual immorality, and conduct causing “scandal or offense.” According to the Post, denominational officials requested that the signatories reaffirm their allegations under penalties of perjury, a request the group declined, arguing it was not required by church bylaws.
In response to the allegations, Wood has denied any wrongdoing. “I do not believe these allegations have any merit,” he said in a statement to Religion News Service. “I place my faith and trust in the process outlined in our canons to bring clarity and truth in these matters and respectfully decline to comment further at this time.”
The allegations against Wood have sparked a significant crisis within the ACNA, a small but influential denomination. Less than a year into Wood’s tenure as archbishop, the formal complaint represents a growing divide among clergy and laypeople over accountability and leadership within the church.
As the investigation unfolds, the denomination faces mounting pressure to address the allegations and uphold its standards of leadership and moral conduct. This case has not only placed Wood under
Survivors of clergy abuse often face an uphill battle in seeking accountability and justice, especially when the accused holds a powerful position within the church. To better understand the legal options available to victims and their families, we sat down with James Moore, a South Carolina-based attorney with extensive experience handling sexual abuse cases involving religious institutions. Moore detailed the legal avenues open to survivors and the challenges they may encounter while navigating these deeply personal and complex cases.
Editor Darla Medina: What legal steps are available to families of individuals who believe they or their loved ones have been harmed by clergy misconduct?
Attorney James Moore: In South Carolina, survivors of sexual abuse, including those involving clergy, have both civil and criminal options. On the criminal side, law enforcement can investigate and prosecute if the evidence meets the threshold for charges. On the civil side, survivors can file lawsuits against both the individual and the institution for damages related to emotional distress, medical expenses, and other losses. These cases often involve claims of negligence by the church for failing to protect victims or adequately address complaints.
Medina: What challenges might victims face in pursuing justice?
Moore: One of the biggest hurdles is the imbalance of power. Clergy often hold significant influence, making it difficult for victims to come forward. There's also the issue of statutes of limitations. While South Carolina has extended the timeframe for civil suits in abuse cases, timing can still impact whether survivors can bring claims. Additionally, institutions may attempt to shield themselves through internal investigations rather than full transparency.
Medina: What advice would you give to someone who suspects misconduct but hasn’t reported it yet?
Moore: If someone suspects abuse, they should document everything—dates, conversations, actions—while also seeking a trusted confidant or attorney for guidance. Reporting to law enforcement is key, as is consulting a lawyer who understands the nuances of these cases. It's important to act, even if the survivor isn’t yet ready to go public. The law can provide a path forward while respecting their privacy.
Medina: Do you believe institutions are doing enough to address these issues?
Moore: Many institutions prioritize damage control over accountability. True change requires transparency, survivor-centered policies, and independent oversight. Without these, patterns of misconduct will persist.
If you or a loved one has experienced abuse by a clergy member, know that you don’t have to face this alone. Legal support is available to help you navigate your options and hold those responsible accountable. Contact us today for a free, confidential consultation and take the first step toward reclaiming your voice and your rights.
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