A former bishop of the Anglican Church in North America has been faraway from ministry after being discovered responsible of a number of expenses, together with “inappropriate relationships with women.”
ACNA introduced Monday that Todd Atkinson, previously the bishop of the Through Apostolica Missionary District based mostly in Alberta, Canada, was “removed from ordained ministry following the conclusion of his ecclesiastical trial.”
The announcement got here after ACNA’s Courtroom for the Trial of a Bishop discovered Atkinson responsible in April of 4 expenses associated to “conduct giving just cause for scandal or offense, including the abuse of ecclesiastical power.”
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These 4 expenses 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 Seashore mentioned in an announcement that he’s grateful for “those who courageously came forward.”
“Working for justice often entails risk, and scores of people willingly took that risk when they participated in the investigation and judicial process. As a Church, we are indebted to you,” said Seashore.
“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 choose true repentance. Pray that the lessons from these events will contribute to the building of safer churches and communities.”
The Anglican Diocese of the Higher Midwest, the place Atkinson served as appearing assistant bishop, launched a assertion Monday in response to the choice.
“We want to remind you that in 2019, Todd and some of his leaders participated in several events and services in our diocese. He preached at the Cathedral and assisted in confirmations. Todd and some of his team members participated in Holy Week and Fully Alive at the Cathedral as guests,” said the diocese.
“At that time the Diocese was unaware of any inappropriate behavior or concerns regarding Todd. If you had any concerning interactions with Todd Atkinson, or, if you would like to talk with a pastor for any reason, we encourage you to seek pastors and caregivers within your congregation.”
In November 2021, ACNA introduced the launch of an investigation into allegations of misconduct in opposition to Atkins, together with abuse of ecclesiastical energy.
Atkinson was placed on go away. Bishop Quigg Lawrence, bishop suffragan of the Anglican Diocese of Christ Our Hope, was appointed to work with Through Apostolica throughout the investigation.
“Well bless their hearts.”
