The Washington Post published a detailed investigation into the allegations of misconduct lodged against the Rt. Rev. Stewart Ruch III, Bishop of the Diocese of the Upper Midwest. The article can be read here.

Summary of the Article: “A Bishop’s Secret Church Trial and the U.S. Anglican Church in Turmoil” (The Washington Post, archived October 24, 2025)

The Anglican Church in North America (ACNA), a conservative denomination formed in 2009 by breakaway Episcopalians opposing the ordination of an openly gay bishop, is facing a major internal crisis due to misconduct allegations against two top leaders: Bishop Stewart Ruch III and Archbishop Stephen Wood.

Allegations Against Bishop Stewart Ruch III

Ruch, 58, who oversees the Upper Midwest Diocese (including 18 churches across six states) and is based at the Church of the Resurrection (Rez) in Wheaton, Illinois, is the subject of two formal church presentments (accusations) leading to an ecclesiastical trial that concluded testimony in mid-October 2025. A verdict from a seven-member panel is expected by December, potentially resulting in his defrocking.

Key accusations include:

•  Negligent Handling of Abuse Cases: Ruch is criticized for slow and inadequate responses to sexual abuse reports, notably a 2019 allegation by a 9-year-old girl against lay catechist Mark Rivera, who was convicted of assaulting her and another woman (Joanna Rudenborg). Ruch delayed diocese-wide notifications and third-party investigations, assuming the criminal process would suffice. He later apologized but distanced himself from direct oversight.

•  Allowing Individuals with Troubling Histories: Ruch allegedly permitted men with violent or sexual misconduct backgrounds to worship or hold roles without proper disclosure or safeguards:

•  John W. Hays: A convicted child sex offender (abused two boys between 2003–2013) attended Rez since 2019 with a chaperone but without public notification to families.

•  Nephtali Matta: Charged with attempted second-degree murder of his first wife in 2011 (pleaded guilty to felony menacing after choking and assaulting her); now serves as Rez’s part-time Alpha coordinator, leading faith discussions.

•  Joshua Moon: Ordained by Ruch in 2020 despite a 2013 misdemeanor conviction for soliciting a prostitute; later accused by female deacon J.A. of unwanted sexual contact in 2022. Moon was suspended for life, but J.A. faced a year-long suspension (extended by Ruch) and a gag order, which she appealed successfully.

•  Other cases: A former church-planting staffer accused of raping colleague A.D. (2017–2019); Ruch allegedly allowed him to continue working briefly without verifying therapy compliance.

•  Broader Failures: Accusations of ignoring child protection policies, inadequate vetting/training of leaders, and violating ordination vows. Over 40 clergy and parishioners co-authored one presentment, highlighting risks to the “flock.”

Ruch has denied the charges, citing his voluntary 2021–2023 leave for an independent investigation (which found errors in judgment). Supporters, like Rez’s interim pastor Matt Woodley, praise his humility. The trial has been tumultuous, with two prosecutors resigning over procedural disputes.

Allegations Against Archbishop Stephen Wood

Wood, 62, ACNA’s top official since June 2025, faces a new presentment (submitted October 2025) accusing him of attempting to kiss a former employee in his South Carolina church office in 2024, plagiarizing sermons, and demeaning staff. This could lead to his own trial and removal.

Broader Context and Impact

The scandals have sparked outrage, leading to the formation of advocacy group ACNAtoo (inspired by #MeToo) and a podcast (“Wall of Silence”) critiquing the diocese (halted under pressure). The article, based on interviews with over 40 sources, church records, and court documents, questions ACNA’s approach to redemption versus safety in family-oriented churches. Ruch’s defenders emphasize gospel transformation, but critics argue his leadership enabled risks. The crisis highlights governance “growing pains” in the young denomination, which emphasizes orthodox Anglicanism.