Our news page features abuse-related ACNA news and updates with commentary written by the ACNAtoo team.
Clarification regarding Todd Atkinson
While not focused on Atkinson himself, the letter contains this prescient reference in its single footnote: 'For example…some of us are troubled by the apparent claim to extra-biblical revelation by Bishop Todd. Others have raised concerns that the ‘unique discipleship method’ of VA may incline toward ‘Heavy Shepherding’ with its unaccountable reliance on one leader.' The priests’ important critique of the larger process remained unheeded, and these red flags about Atkinson were cast aside with it.
Statement on Todd Atkinson’s Deposition
It is commendable that the bishops have finally voted to depose Atkinson, but it is concerning that the proceedings leading up to this decision dragged on for years. It is also unacceptable that the ACNA admitted Atkinson into the province in the first place, given that Canadian Anglican priests warned Bp. Charlie Masters in 2018 about Atkinson’s prior misconduct and asked him not to hastily recommend Atkinson to the ACNA.
Board of Inquiry announces second ecclesiastical trial for Bishop Stewart Ruch
On November 6, 2023, the ACNA Province announced that a Board of Inquiry appointed by Archbishop Foley Beach found probable cause to present Bp. Stewart Ruch of the ACNA Diocese of the Upper Midwest (UMD) for an ecclesiastical trial for violation of Canons IV.2.4 and IV.2.10, as laid out in a presentment brought by three bishops on December 23, 2022.
BISHOP ATKINSON INHIBITED
Three bishops have signed a Presentment alleging Bishop Atkinson of the Via Apostolica Missionary District has violated Title IV Canon 2 of the Anglican Church in North America. Bishop Atkinson has been inhibited from ministry pending the outcome of the Title IV process.
BISHOP ATKINSON TAKES LEAVE OF ABSENCE
The expanded scope of the Provincial review has led to the Rt. Rev. Todd Atkinson taking a leave of absence amidst allegations of misconduct.