Dear Brothers and Sisters of the Upper Midwest,

Customarily, my pastoral letters to our diocese pertain to matters within our diocesan work. But some recent news coverage regarding a provincial (ACNA) matter is one of great seriousness, and one that I want to address with you clearly and directly. Understandably, many emotions and concerns can arise when we hear news of this magnitude.

You may be aware that Anglican Ink and The Washington Post (in addition to other news sources) have published articles this week regarding a formal complaint filed against Archbishop Steve Wood. While not the focus, my trial is also mentioned briefly in various articles. (Last week I sent this trial update.)

I also want to alert you to an additional impending story – expected in the very near term – coming from the same reporter at The Washington Post. This story will center around me, my trial, and various aspects of our diocese and staff. In order to preserve the integrity of the canonical process and uphold pastoral standards, the Court has ordered all parties to refrain from making any comments on the trial proceedings during this period. I am seeking to honor that instruction, and therefore am not engaging with any reporters.

While we wait and pray, here are a few pastoral considerations, as you process this information:

First, we truly have a God who is always “a very present help in trouble” (Psalm 46:1). As a diocese, we learned this during the pandemic, and we have held to this over the last challenging four years. This biblical principle is utterly true today.

Second, regarding Archbishop Steve Wood, I want to emphasize that the College of Bishops is treating these allegations with the seriousness that they deserve. This process is still in its beginning stages, and a canonical process will now ensue that includes inquiry and fact finding.

Third, as this course unfolds, I want to call us as a diocesan family to exercise patience and constancy in prayer. These biblical disciplines will be far more effective than speculation. Together, let’s wait on the Lord, and let’s pray. Please join me in praying for all the complainants, Archbishop Wood and his family, and those who are leading the canonical process.

If you are able, please come to Revive Night this Friday, 7-9:30pm. We had already planned to spend a significant portion of our time together praying for our congregations, our diocese, and our province – as now, more than ever, we find strength in our connection together in the Lord’s presence.

I am grateful for each of you and how you are serving the Lord as together we seek to plant a revival of Word and Sacrament infused by the Holy Spirit.

Love,

+Stewart

Bishop Stewart Ruch III

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