The Anglican Church in North America (ACNA) is dealing with a deepening crisis involving multiple issues, including a $1 million lawsuit from its former chaplaincy jurisdiction and serious misconduct claims against two top bishops.
ACNA was established in 2009 after separating from the Episcopal Church over disagreements on LGBTQ clergy, same-sex marriages, and the ordination of women.
The conflicts escalated publicly in late September 2025, leading to internal strife and litigation that have severely tested the denomination’s accountability mechanisms.
The legal action followed ACNA Archbishop Steve Wood's decision to inhibit Bishop Jones from ministry due to
“credible complaints” of abuse of “ecclesiastical power.”
In response, the JAFC, which officially endorses ACNA chaplains, announced its exit from the denomination.
Jones and the JAFC leadership maintain that the JAFC operates as an independent nonprofit and describe Archbishop Wood’s investigation as unlawful.
This turmoil highlights deep structural tensions within the young church body, challenging its unity and governance.