Dear Resurrection Family,
Today Bishop Stewart sent this letter to our Diocese regarding a formal complaint against the Anglican Church of North America’s Archbishop Steve Wood. I know these allegations may be disturbing. The College of Bishops is taking this matter seriously while also pursuing a thorough and fair process as outlined in our church’s canons.
Also, last Friday, Bishop Stewart sent this letter regarding the conclusion of his ecclesiastical trial. After four and half years, he and other diocesan witnesses finally had an opportunity to testify. Many of you have been praying for everyone involved in this process–thank you!
The Ecclesiastical Trial Court’s update explained that it will issue a final written Order on or before December 16. While the Court is deliberating, it has ordered trial participants to refrain from speaking about any trial proceedings in order to protect the integrity of this process.
While I am sure that news articles and social media posts will continue to circulate and speculate, please keep in mind that the trial lasted 10 days, 100 hours, involved dozens of witnesses, six prosecutors/assistant prosecutors, and thousands of pages of evidence. Almost everyone now writing or commenting on the trial has access to only a fraction of that material. The trial’s purpose was to thoroughly investigate the evidence and to allow all sides to be heard within the Church’s legal context.
So, while we wait in hope, let’s continue to focus on our calling from the Lord to be people of prayer, worship, repentance, and service to the lost and the least in Jesus’ name.
You can find background on the trial in the diocesan FAQs. And if you have any further questions or concerns, you are always welcome to make an appointment to meet with one of our pastoral leaders by emailing Deacon MeghanRobins@churchrez.org.
Warmly,
Fr. Matt Woodley
Interim Dean