ACNA continues to struggle as new allegations emerge

The Anglican Church in North America (ACNA) is experiencing a deepening crisis, marked by internal disputes, legal action, and misconduct claims against senior leaders.

Escalating tensions and lawsuit

In late September 2025, the denomination faced simultaneous challenges: a $1 million lawsuit from its former chaplaincy jurisdiction, the Jurisdiction of the Armed Forces and Chaplaincy (JAFC), and public allegations of leadership misconduct.

Founded in 2009 after separating from the Episcopal Church over divisions on LGBTQ clergy, same-sex marriage, and women’s ordination, ACNA now finds its governance and accountability systems under growing stress.

Details of the legal action

On October 6, Bishop Derek Jones, head of the JAFC, filed a lawsuit in U.S. court against ACNA. The legal complaint accuses ACNA of trademark infringement and demands $1 million in damages.

“Credible complaints” of abuse of “ecclesiastical power,”

were the words used by Archbishop Steve Wood when he inhibited Bishop Jones from ministry on September 22, 2025.

Immediate fallout

In reaction to the suspension, the JAFC leadership announced its formal withdrawal from ACNA, asserting that the chaplaincy body is an independent nonprofit organization and that Wood’s investigation was improper.

Current implications

The situation has deepened divisions within the fledgling church and exposed weaknesses in its structures for oversight and conflict resolution.

Author’s summary: The Anglican Church in North America faces a leadership and legal crisis as its former chaplaincy body sues for $1 million and exits amid accusations of power abuse.

Baptist News Global — 2025-11-03