(CP) A former bishop of the Anglican Church in North America has been faraway from ministry after being found guilty in a church court of multiple charges, including “inappropriate relationships with women.”
ACNA announced Monday that Todd Atkinson, formerly the bishop of the Via Apostolica Missionary District based in Alberta, Canada, was “faraway from ordained ministry following the conclusion of his ecclesiastical trial.”
The announcement got here after ACNA’s Court for the Trial of a Bishop found Atkinson guilty in April of 4 charges related to “conduct giving just cause for scandal or offense, including the abuse of ecclesiastical power.”
These 4 charges included “Inappropriate Relationships with Women,” “Interfering in Marriage and Family Relationships,” “Inappropriate Interactions with Minor Females” and “Abuse of Ecclesiastical Power Through Patterns of Manipulation and Control.”
ACNA Archbishop Foley Beach said in an announcement that he’s thankful for “those that courageously got here forward.”
“Working for justice often entails risk, and scores of individuals willingly took that risk once they participated within the investigation and judicial process. As a Church, we’re indebted to you,” stated Beach.
“Dear Church, please join me in praying for all involved. Pray that the victims and the congregational community will find restoration and healing. Pray that the guilty will select true repentance. Pray that the teachings from these events will contribute to the constructing of safer churches and communities.”
The Anglican Diocese of the Upper Midwest, where Atkinson served as acting assistant bishop, released a statement Monday in response to the choice.
“We wish to remind you that in 2019, Todd and a few of his leaders participated in several events and services in our diocese. He preached on the Cathedral and assisted in confirmations. Todd and a few of his team members participated in Holy Week and Fully Alive on the Cathedral as guests,” stated the diocese.
“At that point the Diocese was unaware of any inappropriate behavior or concerns regarding Todd. If you had any concerning interactions with Todd Atkinson, or, if you happen to would really like to speak with a pastor for any reason, we encourage you to hunt pastors and caregivers inside your congregation.”
In November 2021, ACNA announced the launch of an investigation into allegations of misconduct against Atkins, including abuse of ecclesiastical power.
Atkinson was placed on leave. Bishop Quigg Lawrence, bishop suffragan of the Anglican Diocese of Christ Our Hope, was appointed to work with Via Apostolica through the investigation.
