The church trial of Bishop Stewart Ruch, a prominent leader in the Anglican Church in North America (ACNA), concluded last month with his acquittal on all charges. The decision followed years of scrutiny over Ruch’s handling of sexual abuse allegations involving lay leader Mark Rivera, who was later convicted of child sexual assault. Ruch, who had admitted to delays in reporting the accusations, was tried for alleged negligence, abuse of power, and violations of church law. The court found no clear and convincing evidence of wrongdoing, calling the charges a result of institutional failures rather than personal misconduct.
Court Criticizes Process, Not the Person
The court’s 71-page order emphasized that the case against Ruch was shaped more by public pressure and online narratives than direct evidence. It gave significant weight only to a report from Telios Law, whose author testified there was no culpability on Ruch’s part. Other investigations, such as one by Husch Blackwell, were largely disregarded. Supporters of the decision say it affirms due process and the presumption of innocence, but critics argue that the court ignored troubling patterns and survivor testimony. The court also faulted the presentment process, which it said relied on hearsay and lacked firsthand accounts from witnesses.
Mixed Reactions From Clergy and Advocates
The verdict drew swift backlash. Over 200 people signed a letter demanding an audit of ACNA’s disciplinary practices. ACNAtoo, a survivor advocacy group, said the outcome confirms fears that bishops face little accountability. Others praised the court’s strict evidentiary standards. Some clergy expressed concern over procedural flaws and called for reforms to prevent similar mishandling in the future. Meanwhile, the resignations of two prosecutors during the trial highlighted ongoing internal tensions. A source close to the prosecution said the court minimized evidence and dismissed serious concerns about Ruch’s judgment, including his ordination of a pastor with a criminal record.
Systemic Reform on the Horizon
In response to these controversies, ACNA leaders are preparing to vote on overhauls to Title IV, the denomination’s disciplinary process. Proposed changes aim to clarify complaint procedures and ensure consistent oversight. The Provincial Council will vote on the reforms this summer, and a special Provincial Assembly may approve immediate implementation. However, the updates will not affect upcoming trials of two other bishops, including Archbishop Steve Wood, who are charged under existing rules. The revisions seek to avoid trials prompted solely by online pressure, while still empowering survivors and preventing institutional failures in responding to misconduct.
Safeguarding Office in Transition
Tiffany Butler, ACNA’s first director of safeguarding, will step down in February after nearly a year in the role. She helped establish a network of diocesan safeguarding leaders and new protocols for abuse prevention. Her departure comes amid efforts to rebuild trust in ACNA’s handling of misconduct cases. During her tenure, Butler worked to align diocesan and provincial policies and offered resources for pastoral care and training. Her exit, though voluntary, adds to the growing uncertainty within ACNA’s safeguarding efforts. As changes to Title IV near a vote, leadership transitions raise questions about implementation and accountability.
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After Stewart Ruch’s acquittal, ACNA grapples with trial implications and looks to reform
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