Constitution and Canons of the ACNA
THE ANGLICAN CHURCH IN NORTH AMERICA CONSTITUTION AND CANONS
As ratified by the Inaugural Provincial Assembly, June 2009, amended by the sixth Provincial Assembly, June 2024, and including changes passed at Provincial Council 2025 not yet ratified by Provincial Assembly
Digitally signed
by Dr. Joan A. Deeks
July 23, 2025
THE CONSTITUTION OF THE ANGLICAN CHURCH IN NORTH AMERICA
PREAMBLE
In the Name of God, the Father, the Son and the Holy Spirit, Amen.
We are Anglicans in North America united by our faith in the Lord Jesus Christ and the
trustworthiness of the Holy Scriptures and presently members of the Common Cause Partnership.
We know ourselves to be members of the One, Holy, Catholic, and Apostolic Church.
We are grieved by the current state of brokenness within the Anglican Communion prompted by
those who have embraced erroneous teaching and who have rejected a repeated call to repentance.
We repent ourselves of things done and left undone that have contributed to or tolerated the rise
of false teaching, and we humbly embrace the forgiveness that comes through Christ's atoning
sacrifice.
We are grateful for the encouragement of Primates of the worldwide Anglican Communion who
gathered at Jerusalem in June 2008 and called on us to establish a new Province in North
America. We affirm the Global Anglican Future Conference (GAFCON) Statement and
Jerusalem Declaration issued 29 June 2008.
We believe that this Constitution is faithful to that call and consistent with the Historic Faith and
Order of the Church, and we invite the prayers of all faithful Anglicans as we seek to be obedient
disciples of Jesus Christ our One Lord and Savior.
ARTICLE I: FUNDAMENTAL DECLARATIONS OF THE PROVINCE
As the Anglican Church in North America (the Province), being a part of the One, Holy,
Catholic, and Apostolic Church of Christ, we believe and confess Jesus Christ to be the Way, the
Truth, and the Life: no one comes to the Father but by Him. Therefore, we identify the following
seven elements as characteristic of the Anglican Way, and essential for membership:
1. We confess the canonical books of the Old and New Testaments to be the inspired Word of
God, containing all things necessary for salvation, and to be the final authority and
unchangeable standard for Christian faith and life.
2. We confess Baptism and the Supper of the Lord to be Sacraments ordained by Christ Himself
in the Gospel, and thus to be ministered with unfailing use of His words of institution and of
the elements ordained by Him.
3. We confess the godly historic Episcopate as an inherent part of the apostolic faith and
practice, and therefore as integral to the fullness and unity of the Body of Christ.
4. We confess as proved by most certain warrants of Holy Scripture the historic faith of the
undivided church as declared in the three Catholic Creeds: the Apostles', the Nicene, and the
Athanasian.
5. Concerning the seven Councils of the undivided Church, we affirm the teaching of the first
four Councils and the Christological clarifications of the fifth, sixth and seventh Councils, in
so far as they are agreeable to the Holy Scriptures.
6. We receive The Book of Common Prayer as set forth by the Church of England in 1662,
together with the Ordinal attached to the same, as a standard for Anglican doctrine and
discipline, and, with the Books which preceded it, as the standard for the Anglican tradition
of worship.
7. We receive the Thirty-Nine Articles of Religion of 1571, taken in their literal and grammatical
sense, as expressing the Anglican response to certain doctrinal issues controverted at that
time, and as expressing fundamental principles of authentic Anglican belief.
In all these things, the Anglican Church in North America is determined by the help of God to
hold and maintain, as the Anglican Way has received them, the doctrine, discipline and worship
of Christ and to transmit the same, unimpaired, to our posterity.
We seek to be and remain in full communion with all Anglican Churches, Dioceses and
Provinces that hold and maintain the Historic Faith, Doctrine, Sacraments and Discipline of the
One, Holy, Catholic, and Apostolic Church.
ARTICLE II: THE MEMBERSHIP OF THE PROVINCE
1. The founding entities of the Anglican Church in North America are the members of the
Common Cause Partnership namely:
The Anglican Coalition in Canada
The Anglican Communion Network
The Anglican Mission in the Americas
The Anglican Network in Canada
The Convocation of Anglicans in North America
Forward in Faith – North America
The Missionary Convocation of Kenya
The Missionary Convocation of the Southern Cone
The Missionary Convocation of Uganda
2. New dioceses or networks (whether regional or affinity-based) may be added to the Province
by the Provincial Council, pursuant to the process outlined by canon.
3. Member dioceses (or groups of dioceses organized into distinct jurisdictions) are free to
withdraw from the Province by action of their own governing bodies at any time.
ARTICLE III: THE MISSION OF THE PROVINCE
1. The mission of the Province is to extend the Kingdom of God by so presenting Jesus Christ
in the power of the Holy Spirit that people everywhere will come to put their trust in God
through Him, know Him as Savior and serve Him as Lord in the fellowship of the Church.
The chief agents of this mission to extend the Kingdom of God are the people of God.
2. The work of the Province is to equip each member of the Province so that they may reconcile
the world to Christ, plant new congregations, and make disciples of all nations; baptizing
them in the Name of the Father, and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to
obey everything commanded by Jesus Christ.
3. The Province will seek to represent orthodox North American Anglicans in the councils of
the Anglican Communion.
ARTICLE IV: THE STRUCTURE OF THE PROVINCE
1. The fundamental agency of mission in the Province is the local congregation.
2. Congregations and clergy are related together in a diocese or network (whether regional or
affinity-based), united by a bishop.
3. Each diocese or network (whether regional or affinity-based) shall be represented in the
Provincial Assembly.
4. Dioceses or networks (whether regional or affinity-based) may band together for common
mission, or as distinct jurisdictions at the sub-Provincial level.
5. Each bishop in active episcopal ministry shall be included in a Provincial College of Bishops
as provided by canon.
6. There shall be a Provincial Council as provided by Article VII and by Canon.
7. This Constitution recognizes the right of each diocese or network (whether regional or
affinity-based) to establish and maintain its own governance, constitution and canons not
inconsistent with the provisions of the Constitution and Canons of this Province.
ARTICLE V: AREAS OF PROVINCIAL RESPONSIBILITY
The Provincial Council, subject to ratification by the Provincial Assembly, has power to make
canons ordering our common life in respect to the following matters:
1. Safeguarding the Faith and Order of the Province
2. Supporting the mission of the Province
3. Common Worship
4. Standards for ordination
5. Clergy support and discipline
6. Ecumenical and international relations
7. Norms for Holy Matrimony
8. Providing for the proper administration of the Province
ARTICLE VI: THE PROVINCIAL ASSEMBLY
1. The chief work of the Provincial Assembly shall be strengthening the mission of the Province.
2. The Provincial Assembly shall ratify Constitutional amendments and Canons adopted by the
Provincial Council. The process of ratification is set forth by canon.
3. The Provincial Assembly shall be composed of representatives of all the dioceses and
networks (whether regional or affinity-based) in balance and in number from the laity,
bishops and other clergy as from time-to-time determined by canon.
4. The Provincial Assembly may meet as often as annually, but shall meet not less than every
five years. Meetings shall be called as provided for by canon.
ARTICLE VII: THE PROVINCIAL COUNCIL
1. The Provincial Council is the governing body for the Anglican Church in North America and
shall have the authority to adopt canons and constitutional amendments for ratification by the
Provincial Assembly and to establish the program and budget of the Province.
2. The membership of Provincial Council shall be composed as provided for by Canon.
Initially, the Provincial Council shall be composed of the members of the Common Cause
Leadership council, as constituted under the Common Cause Articles.
3. Provincial Council members hold office for five years. However, initially, each diocese shall
take steps to implement a system of staggered terms.
4. A retiring member of the Provincial Council is eligible for re-election for one additional
term, but not for a third.
5. The Provincial Council may appoint up to six persons as full members.
6. The Provincial Council may appoint a deputy chair, a secretary, a treasurer and such other
office bearers as it deems necessary.
7. The Provincial Council will meet at least once in each calendar year.
8. Special meetings of the Provincial Council may be called as provided for by canon.
9. The Chair with the assistance of the Executive Committee and other office bearers will be
responsible for the agenda of each Provincial Council meeting.
10. The Provincial Council shall have an Executive Committee, whose membership and duties
may be established by canon. Initially the Executive Committee shall be composed of the
members of the Common Cause Executive Committee, as constituted under the Common
Cause Articles.
ARTICLE VIII: THE LIMITS OF PROVINCIAL AUTHORITY
1. The member dioceses or networks (whether regional or affinity-based) and those dioceses
banded together as jurisdictions shall each retain all authority they do not yield to the
Province by their own consent. The powers not delegated to the Province by this constitution
nor prohibited by this Constitution to these dioceses or jurisdictions, are reserved to these
dioceses or jurisdictions respectively.
2. The Province shall make no canon abridging the authority of any member dioceses or networks
(whether regional or affinity-based) and those dioceses banded together as jurisdictions with
respect to its practice regarding the ordination of women to the diaconate or presbyterate.
ARTICLE IX: THE ARCHBISHOP
1. The Archbishop will be known as the Archbishop and Primate of the Anglican Church in
North America. The Archbishop will be elected by the College of Bishops.
2. The person elected as Archbishop will hold office for a term of five years concluding at the
end of the meeting of the Assembly following the meeting of the College of Bishops which
elects the next Archbishop unless such election takes place in accordance with the provisions
of Canon I.3.3. An Archbishop who has served one term of office may be elected for a
second term of office but not a third.
3. The Archbishop convenes the meetings of the Provincial Assembly, Provincial Council and
College of Bishops, represents the Province in the Councils of the Church and carries out
such other duties and responsibilities as may be provided by canon.
ARTICLE X: COLLEGE OF BISHOPS
1. The chief work of the College of Bishops shall be the propagation and defense of the Faith and
Order of the Church, and in service as the visible sign and expression of the Unity of the
Church.
2. Each bishop in active episcopal ministry shall be included in the College of Bishops as
provided by canon.
3. The College of Bishops shall elect the Archbishop from among its members.
4. The College of Bishops will meet with such frequency as best serves its chief work, and at
the call of the Archbishop or one quarter of the episcopal members of the Provincial Council.
5. The College of Bishops shall have authority in the election of bishops of the Province which
may be: a) consent to an election from a diocese or network (whether regional or affinitybased), or b) the actual choice and consent from among two or more nominees put forward by
a diocese or network (whether regional or affinity-based), in the manner set forward by canon.
ARTICLE XI: PROVINCIAL TRIBUNAL AND OTHER COURTS
1. There shall be an ecclesiastical court of final decision to be known as the Provincial Tribunal
consisting of seven members, both lay and clergy, who shall be appointed by the Provincial
Council on such terms and conditions as determined by canon. The jurisdiction of the
Provincial Tribunal shall be to determine matters in dispute arising from the Constitution and
Canons of the Province and such other matters as may be authorized by canon.
2. There shall be a Court for the Trial of a Bishop to function as provided by canon.
3. The Provincial Council may, by canon, create such additional courts, inferior to the Provincial
Tribunal, as may be necessary or appropriate to determine matters of church discipline.
4. Each Diocese shall, by canon, establish its own ecclesiastical Trial Court for the trial of a
deacon or presbyter.
ARTICLE XII: OWNERSHIP OF PROPERTY
All church property, both real and personal, owned by each member congregation now and in the
future is and shall be solely and exclusively owned by each member congregation and shall not
be subject to any trust interest in favor of the Province or any other claim of ownership arising
out of the canon law of this Province. Where property is held in a different manner by any
diocese or grouping, such ownership shall be preserved.
ARTICLE XIII: FINANCES
Each member diocese or network (whether regional or affinity-based) or any group of dioceses
organized into a distinct jurisdiction agrees to share the cost of operating the Province as provided
by canon.
ARTICLE XIV: REMOVAL FROM MEMBERSHIP
As may be provided by canon, a member diocese or network (whether regional or affinity-based)
or any group of dioceses organized into a distinct jurisdiction may be removed from membership
in the Province, after due warning from the Executive Committee, if agreed to by two-thirds of the
members present and voting and at least a majority in two of the three orders of bishops, clergy
and laity within the Provincial Council.
ARTICLE XV: ADOPTION AND AMENDMENT OF THIS CONSTITUTION
1. This Constitution has been adopted by the Leadership Council of the Common Cause
Partnership serving as initial Provincial Council. It shall be submitted to the Provincial
Assembly for ratification at a meeting to be called by the Provincial Council not later than 31
August 2009 and shall become effective immediately upon such ratification.
2. This Constitution may be amended by the Provincial Assembly by two-thirds of the members
present and voting at any regular or special meeting called for that purpose. Any changes or
amendments to the Constitution shall not become effective in less than ninety days following
that meeting.
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We certify that the foregoing is the text of the Constitution of the Anglican Church in
North America adopted by the Common Cause Leadership Council functioning as the
Provincial Council and ratified with amendments by the Provincial Assembly at its meeting
at Saint Vincent’s Cathedral, Bedford, Texas, on the 22nd day of June in the Year of our
Lord 2009.
The Right Reverend Robert W. Duncan The Venerable Charlie Masters
Archbishop of the Anglican Church in Acting Deputy Chair and Bishop-Elect
North America
I certify that the text of the Constitution set out above is the text of the Constitution of the
Anglican Church in North America ratified by the Provincial Assembly at its meeting at
Saint Vincent’s Cathedral, Bedford, Texas, on the 22nd day of June in the Year of Our Lord
2009.
The Rev. Travis S. Boline
Acting Secretary
THE CANONS OF THE ANGLICAN CHURCH IN NORTH AMERICA
TITLE I - Organization and Administration of the Church
Definition of Certain Terms
ASA - “ASA” means the Average Sunday Attendance of a congregation or Diocese for the
previous calendar year. ASA may include regular Saturday worship.
Assembly - “Assembly” means the Provincial Assembly of the Church.
Bishop with Authority to Act– A “Bishop with authority to act” is normally the Diocesan
bishop. In his absence, a duly elected Bishop Co-adjutor would have such authority, or other
bishop as expressly designated by the canons of the diocese.
Church - The term “Church” means the Anglican Church in North America. The terms
“Church” and “Province” are synonymous herein.
Council - The term “Council” means the Provincial Council of the Church.
Day - Unless otherwise specified, the term “day” means calendar day, which shall include
weekends and holidays. If “business day” is specified, the term “day” shall exclude weekends
and holidays recognized by the Anglican Church in North America.
Diocese - The term “Diocese” includes a diocese or network (whether regional or affinity-based).
Ecclesiastical Authority - The diocesan Bishop or, in the absence of a Bishop with authority to
act, the Standing Committee or its equivalent.
The Faith - “The Faith” is the faith once for all delivered to the saints of the One, Holy,
Catholic, and Apostolic church, as set forth in Article I of the Constitution.
Presbyter - The terms “Presbyter” and “Priest” are synonymous herein.
Canon 1
Of the Council
Section 1 - Concerning Governance
The Provincial Council is the governing body of the Church and has the authority to establish
the program and budget of the Church, including such organizational decisions as may facilitate
the work of the Church. The Council shall deliberate upon matters affecting the interests of the
Church and shall approve policies accordingly. The Council shall adopt changes to the
Constitution by a two-thirds majority vote of those present and voting, subject to ratification by
the Assembly by a two-thirds majority vote of those present and voting. The Council shall adopt
changes to the Canons by a simple majority vote of those present and voting, subject to for the
Assembly. The Council shall have power to affirm such covenants entered into by the
Archbishop or College of Bishops that define relationships with Anglicans internationally and
with other Christian jurisdictions. The Council shall consider and report, with reasonable
promptness, upon any matter that a Diocese or the Assembly or the Executive Committee may
refer to the Council.
Section 2 - Concerning Membership
Each Diocese (i.e., diocese or network, whether regional or affinity-based, hereafter called a
“Diocese”) shall select, by means not inconsistent with the Constitution and Canons of the
Church, one (1) Bishop, one (1) member of the Clergy, and two (2) lay persons to be members of
the Council. The Council may appoint up to six (6) persons of any order as full members. Any
member of the Executive Committee who is not otherwise a member of the Council shall be an
ex officio member. A diocese may select a replacement to serve for the unexpired term of any
member selected by that diocese who does not serve his or her full term of office. A retiring
member of the Council is eligible for reelection for one additional term. Notwithstanding the
foregoing, the initial Council shall be composed as provided in Article VII.2 of the Constitution.
The term of office of a member of the Council shall be five (5) years.
Section 3 - Concerning Meetings of the Council
The Council shall meet at least annually. Special meetings of the Council may be called by the
Archbishop or by a majority of the Executive Committee or by any fifteen members of the
Provincial Council. A minimum of thirty (30) days notice must be given for each meeting in
writing or by appropriate electronic means. Meetings of the Council shall be conducted under
rules approved by the Council.
Section 4 - Concerning the Executive Committee
The Council shall have an Executive Committee which shall be the Board of Directors of the
Anglican Church in North America, a non-profit corporation. The Executive Committee shall set
the agenda for meetings of the Provincial Council. Any ten members of the Council may have an
item of business placed on the agenda for consideration. The members of the Executive Committee
shall be the Archbishop, who shall be chairman, and twelve (12) other members, six (6) ordained
and six (6) lay, elected by the Council from among its members. The Executive Committee may
elect a replacement for any member of the Executive Committee who does not serve for his or her
full term of office. The Executive Committee shall have custody of documents and other property
of the Church not vested in any other body or person. Notwithstanding the foregoing, the initial
Executive Committee shall be as provided in Article VII.10 of the Constitution and shall continue
in office until its successors are elected. Members of the Executive Committee shall serve threeyear staggered terms and cannot serve more than two terms consecutively. Officers of the Province
shall serve as ex officio members with voice but no vote.
Section 5 - Concerning Officers of the Church
1. The Archbishop shall be the Presiding Officer of the Church, and the Presiding Officer of the
Council. The Council shall appoint a Deputy Chair, a chancellor, a secretary, a treasurer, and
such other officers of the Church as it deems necessary. The Council shall define the duties
of each officer of the Church. The Archbishop shall appoint a Provincial Dean in
consultation with the College of Bishops to serve at the pleasure of the Archbishop until his
successor is appointed and who may be authorized by the Archbishop to represent him in his
absence.
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2. The Terms of the Officers shall be as follows: The term of the Archbishop shall be as
provided in Article IX of the Constitution. The terms of the remaining officers shall be:
• The term of the Deputy Chair shall be at the pleasure of the Archbishop.
• The term of the Chancellor shall be at the pleasure of the Archbishop.
• The term of the Secretary shall be for three years.
• The term of the Treasurer shall be for three years.
A vacancy occurring in any office other than that of the Archbishop shall be filled by the
Executive Committee until the next meeting of the Provincial Council.
Canon 2
Of the Assembly
Section 1 - Concerning Mission
The chief work of the Assembly shall be strengthening the mission of the Church as defined in
Article III of the Constitution. The role of the Assembly is to deliberate on any matter
concerning the Faith and Mission of the Church and to make recommendations to the Provincial
Council concerning such matters.
Section 2 - Concerning Governance
The Assembly shall function as a unicameral body. The role of the Assembly in the governance
of the Church is to ratify the Constitution and Canons and any amendments adopted by the
Council. Matters not ratified shall be returned to the Council for further consideration. The
Assembly shall receive reports from the Council and make recommendations to strengthen the
mission of the Province.
Section 3 - Concerning Membership
The membership of the Assembly shall be composed of laity, Clergy and Bishops. Lay and
Clergy delegates shall continue in office until their successors are chosen and certified. Each
Diocese, at a minimum, shall be represented by its Bishop or Bishops and two (2) members of
the Clergy and two (2) lay persons. One (1) additional lay person and one (1) additional member
of the Clergy may be added for each additional full one thousand (1,000) ASA of the Diocese.
All active members of the College of Bishops shall be members of the Assembly. Each Diocese
shall make application to the Executive Committee of the Council for certification of the
allowable number of its delegates to the Assembly. A Diocese shall report the names and contact
information of its delegates, and such alternates as it deems prudent to name, not later than sixty
(60) days (thirty [30] days in the case of the initial Assembly) prior to a meeting of the
Assembly. The Council shall certify to each Diocese its allowable number of delegates within
fifteen (15) days of the receipt of such application. (After the initial meeting of the Assembly, the
Council may delegate this responsibility to the Executive Committee.) A Diocese-in-Formation
is entitled to membership in the Assembly under Canon I.5.6. Founding non-ecclesial
organizations shall have representation through one (1) Bishop, one (1) member of the Clergy
and one (1) lay person. The officers of the Church shall be ex officio members of the Assembly.
Section 4 - Concerning Youth Representation
Each Diocese may send one (1) youth representative to the Assembly for every one thousand
(1,000) ASA, in addition to its other representation in the Assembly. Youth representatives must
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be at least sixteen (16) years of age, but not older than twenty-six (26) years of age, at the time of
the convening of the Assembly. Youth representatives shall have both voice and vote.
Section 5 - Concerning Meetings
The Assembly may meet as often as annually and shall meet not less than once every five years.
An Assembly will always be held to mark the end of the five-year term of an Archbishop.
Special meetings of the Assembly may be called by the Archbishop or by two-thirds of the
Executive Committee upon not less than ninety (90) day notice to each member of the Assembly
by written or appropriate electronic means, or as provided in Title I, Canon 3, Section 4 below.
Meetings of the Assembly shall be conducted under rules adopted from time to time by the
Assembly. Rules for conducting the inaugural meeting of the Assembly shall be determined by
the Archbishop.
Section 6 - Concerning the Presiding Officer
The presiding officer of the Assembly shall be the Archbishop or such other persons as he may
designate from time to time.
Canon 3
Of the College of Bishops
Section 1 -
The membership and chief work of the College of Bishops is as provided in Article X of the
Constitution. The College of Bishops shall order its life and develop such rules and procedures as
it deems appropriate for its life and work.
Section 2 -
The College of Bishops shall meet in the week preceding the Provincial Assembly that marks the
end of an Archbishop’s term for the purpose of electing from the active members of the College
with jurisdiction a new Archbishop to serve a five-year term. The Archbishop whose term is
expiring shall convey the authority of the office to the newly elected Archbishop at the
conclusion of the Provincial Assembly following his election. This action shall mark the
beginning of his five-year term. The investiture of a new Archbishop shall be set for a time and
place suited to the interests of the Province and the diocese from which he has been elected.
Section 3. - Concerning Incapacity of the Archbishop
1. When a majority of the members of the Executive Committee have significant concern
regarding the physical or mental capacity of the Archbishop to carry out his duties, they
shall promptly notify the Dean of the Province who may appoint a pastoral representative to
assist the Executive Committee in addressing the concerns with the Archbishop and his
family. For purposes of this canon, in the absence of the Dean of the Province or if there is
no Dean, the senior active diocesan bishop by date of consecration shall assume the duties
of the Dean as provided in this canon.
2. If the matter is not resolved and a majority of the Executive Committee believe that the
Archbishop is no longer able to carry out his duties due to a physical or mental incapacity,
the Executive Committee shall notify the Dean of the Province and ask the Archbishop to
submit to examination by at least two licensed physicians or psychologists, who have a
specialty appropriate to the circumstance and who shall render their opinion to the Executive
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Committee and to the Archbishop and his family. One of the physicians or psychologists
shall be chosen by the Archbishop and one by the Dean.
3. If, after considering the report of the physicians or psychologists the Executive Committee
determines that the Archbishop is no longer able to carry out his duties due to a physical
or mental incapacity, the Executive Committee may, upon a two-thirds majority vote, ask
the Archbishop to resign or to take a medical leave of absence. The Executive Committee
shall report this matter to the Dean of the Province, who shall ensure that appropriate
pastoral care is provided to the Archbishop and his family.
4. The Archbishop shall have the right to appeal within 30 days of receiving written
notification of the determination of incapacity by the Executive Committee. The appeal
shall be to the Provincial Tribunal. The Tribunal shall review all evidence relevant to the
appeal, including testimony of witnesses. The Tribunal’s decision shall be based on the
preponderance of the evidence. A simple majority of the Tribunal shall be necessary to
render a decision and the decision shall be final. Pending the outcome of the appeal, the
Archbishop shall automatically be placed on paid administrative leave and the Dean of
the Province shall chair the Executive Committee.
5. If the Archbishop refuses to comply with any provision of this canon, the Dean of the
Province upon consultation with the College of Bishops may issue a Godly Admonition on
behalf of the College of Bishops with the approval of a two-thirds majority vote of those
Bishops present and voting. If the Archbishop refuses to comply with the Godly
Admonition, such refusal shall constitute a presentable offense under Canon IV.2.
6. If the Archbishop resigns, takes medical leave, or appeals to the Provincial Tribunal under
the provisions of this canon, the duties of the office of the Archbishop shall temporarily
be assumed by the Dean of the Province.
7. If the Archbishop takes medical leave, the Executive Committee shall have up to 90 days
to declare the Archbishop either competent to resume his duties or unable to do so due to
a permanent disability.
Section 4 –
In the event of the death, permanent disability, resignation, or removal of the Archbishop prior to
the completion of a five-year term, the Dean of the Province (or in his absence the senior active
diocesan bishop) shall promptly call a meeting of the College of Bishops for the purpose of
electing a new Archbishop for a five-year term.
Canon 4
Of Committees
Section 1.1 Concerning Initial Committees
At the time of the adoption of the Constitution the following Task Forces and Committees were
operating: the Prayer Book and Common Liturgy Task Force, the Governance Task Force, the
Admissions Committee, the Ecumenical Relations Task Force, the Education Committee, the
Episcopate Task Force, the Finance, Budget and Stewardship Committee, the Mediation Panel
and the Mission Committee. These Task Forces and Committees shall continue, as constituted, as
1
This new section heading was added by the 2025 Provincial Council.
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Committees of the Church until further action of the Council, which shall have authority to end
or alter the same and to appoint such other committees and task forces as deemed necessary.
Section 2. Concerning the Provincial Constitution and Canons Committee2
1. The Governance Task Force shall henceforth be known as the Provincial Constitution
and Canons Committee (hereafter in this Section the “Committee”).
2. Consistent with the procedures outlined in Title V of these Canons, it shall be the
responsibility of the Committee to oversee and guide the process by which Provincial
Council considers amendments to the Constitution and Canons of the Province and
the process by which Provincial Assembly ratifies any amendments proposed by
Provincial Council.
3. In the performance of their responsibilities, the Committee may
a. Consider amendments suggested by the Archbishop, the Executive
Committee, the Provincial and Diocesan Chancellors, the Members of the
Committee, clergy, or laity of the Province, and shall establish a process for
receipt, consideration, and response to such suggestions;
b. Share draft amendments with the College of Bishops and the Executive
Committee for comment prior to annual meetings of the Provincial Council;
c. Share draft amendments with Members of Provincial Council for comment
prior to Provincial Council;
d. Present amendments to Provincial Council for approval; and
e. Present amendments approved by Provincial Council to Provincial Assembly
for ratification.
4. Members of the Committee shall be appointed by the Archbishop with the consent by
majority vote of the Executive Committee. Members may be removed by the
Archbishop with the consent by majority vote of the Executive Committee.
5. The number of Members of the Committee shall be determined by the Archbishop
with the consent by majority vote of the Executive Committee. At least one (1)
Member shall be a currently active diocesan bishop.
6. Members shall serve six-year terms, with the initial members serving staggered terms
as determined by the Committee and may serve multiple terms if re-appointed in
accordance with paragraph 5. The Archbishop may, with the consent by majority vote
of the Executive Committee, select a replacement to serve the unexpired term of any
member who does not serve his or her full term of office.
7. Provincial Chancellors shall serve as ex-officio members of the Committee with
voice but no vote.
2
This new Section 2 and its subsections were added by the 2025 Provincial Council.
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8. The Archbishop may select a Chair from among the voting members of the
Committee or may allow the Committee to elect a chair from among its voting
membership.
9. The Committee may appoint subcommittees in its discretion and may invite nonCommittee members to serve on such subcommittees, provided that any amendment
submitted to the Province for consideration shall be adopted by majority vote of the
members of the Committee.
10. In furtherance of its responsibilities, the Committee shall present reports to the
College of Bishops and the Executive Committee at their regular meetings, to
Provincial Council, to Provincial Assembly, and at any other meetings as directed by
the Archbishop.
Canon 5
Of Dioceses
Section 1 - Concerning Structure
A Diocese is a grouping of congregations gathered for mission under the oversight of a Bishop (the
“Ecclesiastical Authority”). A Diocese is composed of a minimum of twelve (12) congregations
with an ASA of at least fifty (50) each and a collective ASA of at least one thousand (1,000). A
diocese shall demonstrate that there is sufficient financial support for the office of the Bishop and
shall provide financial support to the Province in the spirit of Canon I.9.
Section 2 - Concerning Governance
Each Diocese may establish and maintain its own governance, constitution and canons not
inconsistent with the Constitution and Canons of the Church, except as hereinafter set forth.
Dioceses may band together for common mission or as distinct jurisdictions within the Church.
The structures of pre-existing dioceses are recognized.
Section 3 - Concerning Standing Committees
The governing body of each Diocese shall establish a Standing Committee or its equivalent. This
committee shall be a council of advice to the Bishop and the Ecclesiastical Authority of the
Diocese in the absence of a Bishop authorized to act. The other rights and duties of the
committee shall be established by diocesan canon.
Section 4 - Concerning Oversight by Other Anglican Provinces
Dioceses gathered under the jurisdiction and oversight of another Province of the Anglican
Communion at the time of the organization of the Anglican Church in North America may
continue under the constitution and canons of the parent Province to the extent provided by
specific protocols between all of the parties, periodically reviewed.
Section 5 - Concerning Applying for Diocesan Status
A group of congregations that meet the minimum standards for diocesan status may apply to the
Council to be added to the Church as a Diocese. In exceptional cases, the Provincial Council may
modify these requirements on a case-by-case basis by two-thirds vote upon the affirmative
recommendation by the Executive Committee. The application form shall prescribe, at a
minimum, basic information concerning the history, mission and legal status of the group,
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current rules of governance, its individual and collective ASA and Anglican affiliation, and any
justification for a modification of applicable requirements. The application shall confirm that the
rector of each congregation has notified the current domestic Bishop or Bishops of the
congregation’s intention to be part of the group making application. The application shall contain
the name of the recommended nominee or nominees for Bishop and shall contain the present and
proposed group budget, including the intended financial support of a Bishop. (Such form and the
guidelines for such application are included herein as Appendix “A”)
Section 6 - Concerning Diocese-In-Formation Status
A grouping of congregations that do not meet the minimum standards for diocesan status may
apply to the Council for temporary Diocese-in-Formation status. With the majority vote of the
Council, the Archbishop (who is the Ecclesiastical Authority of a Diocese-in-Formation) may
appoint a Vicar General to assist the group toward final qualification as a Diocese of the Church.
A Diocese-in-Formation shall be represented in the Assembly by its Vicar General and one (1)
member of the Clergy and one (1) lay person. No Diocese-in-Formation shall be continued under
this provision for more than five (5) years.
Section 7 – Concerning the Strengthening of Dioceses
The Executive Committee shall review the annual Diocesan Reports. In light of the standards for
a diocese as provided in Section 1 of this Canon, the Executive Committee may invite a dialogue
with any diocese with the objective of strengthening its mission and ministry.’
Section 8 – Concerning the Safeguarding Policies
It is the moral duty of the whole Church (the Province, the dioceses, and local congregations and
ministries) to see that the flock of Christ is protected from abuse. As a diocese is the primary
level at which the means to provide such protection can be implemented, it shall therefore be the
duty of the bishop of each diocese, rather than that of the Province, to ensure that safeguarding
policies and procedures both for children and for adults are adopted and implemented within the
congregations, ministries, and structures of the diocese and to monitor and ensure compliance
with such policies and procedures. Such policies shall be adopted no later than June 30, 2025,
and shall be made publicly available to the members of the diocese.
Section 9 – Concerning Reports of Misconduct
It is the moral duty of the whole Church (the Province, the dioceses, and local congregations and
ministries) to see that those entrusted with leadership are subject to godly discipline as needed.
As a diocese is the primary level at which discipline can be exercised, each diocese shall
therefore establish processes and procedures to respond to reports of misconduct by clergy and
laypersons and to facilitate care of those affected. It shall be the duty of the bishop of each
diocese, rather than that of the Province, to ensure that such processes and procedures are
implemented within the congregations, ministries, and structures of the dioceses, and to monitor
and ensure compliance with such processes and procedures.
In developing such processes and procedures, each diocese shall adopt the following minimum
standards by canon or policy on or before December 31, 2025, or else the bishop and Standing
Committee of the diocese must certify to the Executive Committee by December 31, 2024, that
the diocese has another disciplinary process for receiving and investigating reports that it regards
as of at least equal fairness, transparency, and integrity.
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1. Each diocese shall appoint at least two Diocesan Reports Receivers to receive reports of
misconduct. In no event shall any Chancellor of the Diocese serve as a Diocesan Reports
Receiver. Any report received regarding the abuse of a minor or vulnerable adult shall be
reported to the appropriate civil authorities consistent with applicable laws and subject to
constitutional and statutory exemptions and protections.
2. Subject to subsection 1 above, upon receipt of a report of misconduct by a presbyter or
deacon, the Diocesan Reports Receivers shall evaluate the report in a timely manner and
shall in their individual capacities recommend to the bishop whether the report discloses
reasonable grounds to believe an offense under Title IV has been committed. With the
advice of the Standing Committee (or its designated subcommittee), the bishop shall
determine whether a report of misconduct involving a presbyter or deacon should be
dismissed or if such report should proceed to investigation under subsection 6 below. If a
report is dismissed, the reporting party must be promptly notified of such dismissal.
3. Each Diocese shall facilitate provision of pastoral care for those making reports not
dismissed under subsection 2, as well as for the clergy who are the subject of such reports.
4. Subject to subsection 1 above, upon receipt of a report of misconduct by a layperson, the
Diocesan Reports Receivers shall inform the bishop. The Diocesan Reports Receivers shall
also, in consultation with the bishop, inform a Warden and/or the member of the clergy in
charge of the congregation such layperson attends or in which the alleged misconduct
occurred for the matter to be addressed at the level of the congregation with support, as
needed, from the diocese.
5. Subject to subsection 1 above, upon receipt of a report of misconduct by a bishop, the
Diocesan Reports Receivers shall refer the report in accordance with Title IV of these canons.
6. Each Diocese shall have a Diocesan Reports Investigation Committee to investigate all
reports of misconduct by a presbyter or deacon referred to it under this Canon. Such
Diocesan Reports Investigation Committee shall include at least one legally qualified person
(meaning a person who has a degree or license in canon law, was or is a judge in Canada,
Mexico, or the United States, or has been licensed to practice law for at least 5 years in any
part of Canada, Mexico, or the United States).
7. The details of a report and of any subsequent investigation shall be maintained in
appropriate confidence until the report is dismissed for lack of reasonable grounds or the
Diocesan Reports Investigation Committee takes further action under Title IV.
8. Any diocese may agree in writing with one or more other dioceses to develop and share
resources necessary to implement the requirements of this section 9, including Diocesan
Reports Receivers, members of Diocesan Reports Investigation Committees, as well as
pastoral care, administrative, and financial resources.
Canon 6
Of Congregations
Section 1 - Concerning Congregational Mission
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The fundamental agency of the mission of the Church to extend the Kingdom of God is the local
congregation. The chief agents of this mission are the people of God.
Section 2 - Concerning Congregations
A congregation in this Church is a gathered group of Christians who have organized and function
in accordance with the canons of this Church attached to a diocese and under the oversight of a
Bishop. Every congregation of the Church belongs to the Church by union with a Diocese of the
Church or through a Diocese-in-Formation. A congregation of this Church is a gathering where the
pure Word of God is preached and the sacraments are duly administered according to Christ’s
ordinance (Article XIX).
Section 3 - Concerning Organization
Every congregation shall be established in accordance with the laws of the State or jurisdiction
where situated, shall handle its own finances, and shall carry insurance coverage in amounts
specified by its Diocese, except in those Dioceses with constitutional or canonical provisions to
the contrary.
Section 4 - Concerning Congregational Clergy and Lay Employees
1. No Rector may be called to or dismissed from a congregation without the consent of the
Bishop. No other clergy may be called or dismissed from a congregation without consultation
with the Bishop. A diocese may adopt canons not in conflict with this section.
2. All assistant clergy and lay employees of the congregation shall serve under the direction of
and at the pleasure of the Rector except as may be otherwise provided under local law.
Section 5 - Concerning Governing Boards
There shall be a governing board of each congregation, often known as the vestry, which is
chosen and serves according to applicable laws, diocesan canons, and the congregational bylaws. The Presbyter in charge of the congregation shall always be a member of the governing
board and its presiding officer except as provided by diocesan canon. The governing board is
responsible for the temporalities of the congregation and, except where otherwise provided by
canon, supports the clergy in the spiritual leadership of the congregation.
Section 6 - Concerning Property Ownership
All congregational property, real and personal, owned by a member congregation is and shall be
solely and exclusively owned by the congregation and shall not be subject to any trust in favor of
the Province or other claim of ownership arising out of the canon law of the Church; neither may
any Diocese assert any such claim over the property of any of its congregations without the
express written consent of the congregation. Where property is held in a different manner by any
Diocese or grouping, such ownership shall be preserved.
Section 7 - Concerning Planting New Congregations
With the leadership and consent of the Bishop, a diocese and its congregations, clergy, and
people should, whenever possible, plant new congregations. The diocese shall ensure spiritual
covering and practical assistance to new plants consistent with its own missional strategies until
each is self-sustaining. A new plant is self-sustaining when it meets the criteria for sustainability
as determined by its diocese and Bishop.
Section 8 - Concerning Annual Reports
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On or before March 1 of each year every congregation shall prepare and forward to the Bishop
and to the Provincial Office a report, in a form specified from time to time by the Executive
Committee, reflecting the status and growth of the congregation in terms of ASA, tithes and
offerings, baptisms, confirmations and receptions, marriages, burials, and other important
categories of information concerning the preceding calendar year, including new initiatives for
mission and ministry. On or before March 1 of each year, the Bishop shall ensure that the diocese
forwards to the Executive Committee any changes to the Diocesan Constitution and Canons since
its last report. The Executive Committee shall cause to be prepared a report to the Archbishop on
the status and growth of the Province, with an appropriate summary also being made available on
the Provincial website.
Section 9 - Concerning Transfer or Disaffiliation
1. Congregations reserve the right to transfer from one Diocese to another with the permission
and blessing of both the sending and receiving Diocesan bishops.
2. Congregations wishing to transfer from one Diocese to another Diocese of the Church are
required first to notify their current Diocesan Bishop stating: (1) their desire to transfer, (2)
the Diocese to which they request to apply for such transfer, and (3) the reason for their
request to transfer.
3. If the congregation and their Diocesan bishop cannot reach agreement on such transfer, either
party may request the Archbishop to mediate and facilitate a transfer or other resolution.
4. A congregation transferring into a Diocese becomes subject to the Constitution and Canons
of that Diocese.
5. Congregations reserve the right to disaffiliate with the Church after consultation with their bishop.
Canon 7
Of Ministry Partners, Affiliated Ministries Religious Orders,
Other Christian Communities and Solitary Religious
Section 1 - Concerning Cooperation
Ministry Partners, Affiliated Ministries and Religious Orders work together with the Anglican
Church in North America to extend the Kingdom of God. Those desiring admittance in one of
these categories shall apply in writing to the Council to become associated with the Church.
Applicants must subscribe without reservation to the Fundamental Declarations of the Church
stated in Article I of the Constitution. The Council may admit an applicant upon terms deemed
appropriate. Ministry Partners, Affiliated Ministries and Religious Orders may have
representatives attend functions or gatherings of the Church upon invitation of the Archbishop.
Ministry Partners, Affiliated Ministries and Religious Orders may withdraw or have their status
ended with or without cause.
Section 2 – Concerning Ministry Partners
A Ministry Partner may be:
1. A founding entity of the Province as listed in Article II of the Constitution.
2. A jurisdiction or coalition which is deemed to have a special relationship with the Province.
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Delegates of Ministry Partners may have seat and voice at Provincial Assembly and Provincial
Council as determined by the Archbishop.
Section 3 - Concerning Affiliated Ministries
An affiliated ministry may be an entity such as a seminary, mission agency, ministry
organization, religious society or sodality. A diocese or other entity that is part of a jurisdiction
other than the Anglican Church in North America may also apply for affiliated ministry status, so
long as the requirements of Section 1 of this canon are met.
Section 4 - Concerning Religious Orders
A Religious Order of The Anglican Church in North America is defined as a society of Christians
who voluntarily commit themselves for life, or a term of years, to holding their possessions in
common or in trust to a celibate life in community; and obedience to their Rule and Constitution.
Other rules concerning Religious Orders are as established in the Rules of the College of Bishops.
Section 5 - Concerning Christian Communities or Societies
A Christian Community or Society of The Anglican Church in North America under this Canon
is defined as a society of Christians who voluntarily commit themselves for life or a term of
years, in obedience to their Rule and Constitution. Other rules concerning Christian
Communities or Societies are as established in the Rules of the College of Bishops.
Section 6 - Concerning Solitary Religious
Vows of any solitary religious may be received and recorded by any Diocesan Bishop having
jurisdiction over the congregation of which the vowed individual is a part, at the discretion of the
Bishop.
Canon 8
Of Visitors
The Archbishop may invite any person or group to observe functions of the Church, and such
visitors may be accorded seat and voice as determined by the Archbishop.
Canon 9
Of Finances
Section 1 - Concerning the Tithe
The biblical tithe is the minimum standard of giving to support the Mission of the Church, and
should be taught and encouraged at every level in the Church.
Section 2 - Concerning Finance and Budget
The Executive Committee, with the assistance of the Finance, Budget and Stewardship
Committee, shall develop the program and budget of the Church based on commitments of the
Dioceses and other monies raised. The program and budget shall be presented annually to the
Council for adoption. The Finance, Budget and Stewardship Committee shall consult with any
Diocese that is not able to meet the requested support of the Church.
Section 3 - Concerning Financial Responsibility and Accountability
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Financial responsibility and accountability are the obligations of the Church at every level. Every
Diocese shall provide for an annual independent audit or review of all its accounts. Every Diocese
shall provide standards for recordkeeping, financial accountability, insurance, investments and the
bonding of financial officers for both the Diocese and its congregations and missions. The
Executive Committee shall provide for an annual independent audit of all accounts of the Province.
Canon 10
Of the Laity
Section 1 - Concerning Ministry
The people of God are the chief agents of the Mission of the Church to extend the Kingdom of
God by so presenting Jesus Christ in the power of the Holy Spirit that people everywhere will
come to put their trust in God through Him, know Him as Savior and serve Him as Lord in the
fellowship of the Church. The effective ministry of the Church is the responsibility of the laity
no less than it is the responsibility of Bishops and other Clergy. It is incumbent for every lay
member of the Church to become an effective minister of the gospel of Jesus Christ, one who is
spiritually qualified, gifted, called, and mature in the faith. Each diocese may establish standards
for the ministry of the laity.
Section 2 - Concerning Duties of the Laity
With the help of God’s grace, it shall be the duty of every member of the Church:
1. To worship God, the Father, and the Son and the Holy Spirit, every Lord’s Day in a Church
unless reasonably prevented;
2. To engage regularly in the reading and study of Holy Scripture and the Doctrine of the
Church as found in Article I of the Constitution of this Church;
3. To pray regularly for their needs and those of others, for the Church and its mission, and for
the concerns of the world;
4. To observe their baptismal vows, to lead an upright and sober life, and not give scandal to the
Church;
5. To present their children and those they have led to the Lord for baptism and confirmation;
6. To give regular financial support to the Church, with the biblical tithe as the minimum
standard of giving;
7. To practice forgiveness daily according to our Lord’s teaching;
8. To receive worthily the Sacrament of Holy Communion as often as reasonable;
9. To observe the feasts and fasts of the Church set forth in the Anglican formularies;
10. To affirm and follow the biblical standards of sexual morality and ethics in Canon II.8;
11. To continue their instruction in the Faith so as to remain an effective minister for the Lord
Jesus Christ;
12. To serve their neighbor, sacrificially demonstrating the love of Christ to the poor, the sick
and those in need.
13. To devote themselves to the ministry of Christ and the proclamation of the Gospel among
those who do not know Him, utilizing the gifts that the Holy Spirit gives them, for the
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effective extension of Christ’s Kingdom.
Section 3 - Concerning Membership in the Church
Membership in the Church requires that a person has received the Sacrament of Baptism with water
in the Name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit, and that such a person be accepted
as a member of the Church by a congregation of this Church in compliance with the Constitution of
the Church. Such a person is a baptized member of the Church. A confirmed member is a baptized
member who has been confirmed or received by a Bishop of the Church. Dioceses and
congregations may establish the norm and standards for membership in good standing.
Canon 11
Of the Special Jurisdiction for the Armed Forces and Chaplaincy
Section 1 –
There shall be a Special Jurisdiction to oversee the Church’s ministry of clergy serving in
Endorsed Chaplaincies to include Governmental agencies, such as the Armed Forces of the
United States, Veteran’s Administration, and Department of Justice, and non-governmental
agencies which require formal ecclesiastical endorsement. Provision for armed forces or
governmental chaplaincy in Canada is not covered by this canon. The ministry shall be under the
oversight of the Bishop of the Armed Forces and Chaplaincy, who shall be elected by the
College of Bishops and, at his request, may be assisted by a Bishop Coadjutor or Suffragan(s) as
needed and approved by the Archbishop and the College of Bishops. This Bishop of the Special
Jurisdiction shall have the rights and authority of a diocesan bishop. The ministry shall be called
the Special Jurisdiction for the Armed Forces and Chaplaincy and shall function under the
oversight of the Archbishop. The Bishop of the Armed Forces and Chaplaincy is the
ecclesiastical endorser for chaplains in this Church as may be needed to meet the professional
requirements of governmental and institutional chaplaincies.
Section 2 –
The ministry shall be conducted by chaplains duly ordained in this Church. It is normative for
full-time or active duty chaplains endorsed for U.S. Governmental service to be domiciled in the
Special Jurisdiction. Chaplains serving other institutions and agencies may be domiciled or
licensed in the Special Jurisdiction.
Section 3 –
Clergy domiciled in a diocese of the Anglican Church in North America may be received into the
Special Jurisdiction by transfer from the Bishop of that diocese or may be ordained into the Special
Jurisdiction by its Bishop following the requirements, standards and procedures of Title III of the
Provincial Canons. Chaplains previously ordained in jurisdictions in the historic succession but not
in Communion with this Church may be received into the Church in accordance with Provincial
Canon III.5.3. Chaplains previously ordained in jurisdictions that are not ordered in the historic
succession must be ordained in accordance with Provincial Canon III.5.1-2.
Section 4 –
Military chaplains are commissioned officers of the Armed Forces of the United States and, as
such, are subject to military discipline and order. All chaplains domiciled in the Special Jurisdiction
of the Armed Forces and Chaplaincy are subject to the discipline of the Anglican Church in North
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America and to any canons established by the Special Jurisdiction. The Special Jurisdiction may
establish a Trial Court by canon not inconsistent with Title IV of the Provincial Canons.
Section 5 –
A chaplain of the Special Jurisdiction who functions in local church ministry or other ministry
outside of the institution for which the chaplain is endorsed shall exercise that ministry under
license from the Bishop of the local diocese.
Section 6 –
All baptisms, confirmations, marriages and burials performed in the Special Jurisdiction shall be
recorded in the official records of the Special Jurisdiction and reported in accordance with
Provincial Canon I.6.8. Those baptized or confirmed shall be transferred to a local congregation
of a diocese of this Church as soon as is practicable.
Section 7 -
Financial support of the ministry shall be conducted under a plan submitted by the Bishop of the
Armed Forces and Chaplaincy, approved by the Special Jurisdiction’s Standing Committee or its
equivalent, and reported to the Archbishop. Annual budgets and audits shall be submitted to the
Special Jurisdiction’s Standing Committee or its equivalent and the Executive Committee of the
Province. Solicitations of funds in support of the ministries of the Special Jurisdiction shall be
the responsibility of the Special Jurisdiction.
Section 8 -
Chaplains of the Special Jurisdiction shall gather as a Convocation annually as the Bishop of the
Armed Forces and Chaplaincy directs. The Convocation shall make annual written reports on the
mission and ministries of the Special Jurisdiction to the College of Bishops, Provincial Executive
Committee, and Provincial Council.
Section 9 -
The Bishop of the Armed Forces and Chaplaincy and two delegates chosen by the Special
Jurisdiction shall be members with seat, voice, and vote in the Provincial Council and Provincial
Assembly.
Section 10 –
Whenever possible, chaplains shall use the liturgies of this Church. Chaplains of the Special
Jurisdiction may conduct ecumenical services with the consent of, or at the direction of, the
Bishop of the Armed Forces and Chaplaincy.
Section 11 -
Provincial oversight of the Special Jurisdiction rests with the Archbishop. The Archbishop, in
consultation with the College of Bishops, may appoint a committee of Bishops to serve, along
with the Provincial Chancellor, as a council of advice to the Bishop of the Armed Forces and
Chaplaincy.
Section 12 -
The Special Jurisdiction may incorporate in any state of the United States and shall adopt
Constitution and Canons not inconsistent with the Constitution and Canons of the Province. The
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Constitution and Canons of the Special Jurisdiction and any changes thereto shall be subject to
review and approval by the Executive Committee of the Province.
Section 13 –
Endorsement of Chaplains by the Reformed Episcopal Church shall continue in practice
until an effective method of unified endorsement can be established.
Canon 12
Of Missionary Districts
1. On the recommendation of the College of Bishops and the Executive Committee, the
Provincial Council may establish one or more Missionary Districts.
2. Missionary Districts are intended to advance the ministry of the Province in extending the
Kingdom of God into new areas of the Province or beyond consistent with the Fundamental
Declarations and Mission of the Church.
3. A missionary district may be the initiative of one or more dioceses or may be the initiative of
the Provincial Council on behalf of the Province.
4. Where the initiative is of one or more dioceses, they shall provide episcopal oversight and
financial support. Clergy and congregations shall be domiciled in the diocese or dioceses to
which the Missionary District belongs.
5. Where the initiative is of the Provincial Council, the College of Bishops may elect a Bishop
for Special Mission, who shall be domiciled in an existing diocese of the Province. Financial
support of the Missionary District shall be the responsibility of the District and of the
Province, not of the Bishop for Special Mission’s diocese of domicile. Clergy and
congregations shall be domiciled in the Diocese in which the Bishop for Special Mission is
domiciled. The Bishop for Special Mission shall owe canonical obedience to the Archbishop
and College of Bishops, and the clergy of the Missionary District shall owe canonical
obedience to the Bishop for Special Mission.
6. In establishing Missionary Districts care shall be taken not to intrude or conflict with the
ministries of existing dioceses, congregations or other missions within the Anglican Church
in North America, or within any national or regional Church in communion with the
Anglican Church in North America.
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TITLE II
Worship and the Administration of Sacraments
Canon 1
Of Translations of the Bible
The Lessons used in services of public worship shall be read from translations of the Holy
Scriptures as authorized by the Bishop with jurisdiction.
Canon 2
Of the Standard Book of Common Prayer
Section 1 -
The Book of Common Prayer as set forth by the Church of England in 1662, together with the
Ordinal attached to the same, are received as a standard for Anglican doctrine and discipline,
and, with the Books which preceded it, as the standard for the Anglican tradition of worship. The
Book of Common Prayer of the Province shall be the one adopted by the Anglican Church in
North America. All authorized Books of Common Prayer of the originating jurisdictions shall be
permitted for use in this Church.
Section 2 -
It is understood that there is a diversity of uses in the Province. In order to use these rich liturgies
most advantageously, it is the responsibility of the Bishop with jurisdiction to ensure that the
forms used in Public Worship and the Administration of the Sacraments be in accordance with
Anglican Faith and Order and that nothing be established that is contrary to the Word of God as
revealed in the Holy Scriptures.
Canon 3
Of the Due Celebration of the Lord’s Day
All members of this Church are called to celebrate and keep the Lord’s Day by regular
participation in the public worship of the Church, by hearing the Word of God read and taught,
by partaking of the Sacrament of Holy Communion and by other acts of devotion and deeds of
charity, according to God’s holy will and pleasure.
Canon 4
Of the Administration of the Dominical Sacraments
Section 1 - General
1. The Sacraments of Baptism and Holy Communion shall be administered by the duly
ordained Clergy of this Church in accordance with their order of ministry. This provision
shall not preclude the administration of emergency baptism by any baptized person.
2. It is normative that baptized children and adults be presented to the Bishop for Confirmation.
Section 2 - Concerning Christian Formation
All Clergy shall take care that all within their cures are instructed in the doctrine, sacraments,
and discipline of Christ, as the Lord has commanded and as they are set forth in the Holy
Scriptures, in the Book of Common Prayer, and in the Church Catechism.
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Section 3 - Concerning the Holy Communion
1. Presiding at the Celebration of the Holy Communion is reserved to Bishops and Presbyters;
2. No one shall receive the Sacrament of Holy Communion except they be baptized, with water,
in the Name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit;
3. It is the duty of all who have been confirmed to receive the Holy Communion regularly, and
especially at the festivals of Christmas, Easter and Whitsun or Pentecost;
4. The admission of baptized young children to the Holy Communion is permitted in this Province;
5. Members in good standing of other branches of Christ’s Church, who have been baptized,
with water, in the Name of the Father, and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, are welcomed to
receive the Sacrament of Holy Communion. The qualifications concerning rightly and
worthily receiving the Supper of the Lord with faith are provided in Article XXVIII of the
Thirty-Nine Articles of Religion.
Canon 5
Of the Music of the Church
It shall be the duty of every member of the Clergy in charge of a congregation to appoint for use
psalms, hymns and spiritual songs which are appropriate for worship. The member of the Clergy
in charge is the final authority in the administration of matters pertaining to music in the
congregation.
Canon 6
Of Lay Worship Ministry
Lay persons may be appointed to assist the Clergy in various tasks of worship to further the
ministry of the Word and Sacrament.
Canon 7
Of Christian Marriage
Section 1 -
The Anglican Church in North America affirms our Lord’s teaching that Holy Matrimony,
commonly called a Sacrament (Article 25 and ACNA Catechism 124-125), is a lifelong covenant
between one man and one woman, binding both to self-giving love and exclusive fidelity. Jesus
Christ teaches that God is the author of marriage from the beginning of time. “So God created man
in his own image, in the image of God he created him, male and female he created them” (Genesis
1:27; cf. Matthew 19:4-6). God’s design for marriage has always involved one man and one
woman (Genesis 2:24). Marriage is established by God for the procreation of children and their
nurture in the knowledge and love of the Lord; for mutual joy, and for the help and comfort given
one another in prosperity and adversity; to maintain purity, so that husbands and wives, with all the
household of God, might serve as holy and undefiled members of the Body of Christ; and for the
upbuilding of Christ’s kingdom in family, church, and society, to the praise of his holy Name.
Section 2 -
It shall be within the discretion of any member of the Clergy to decline to solemnize any
marriage.
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Section 3 -
Members of the Clergy of this Church shall conform to the Canons of this Church governing the
solemnization of Holy Matrimony.
1. Both parties shall be baptized. Any exception to this requires the permission of the Bishop;
2. There shall be thirty (30) days notice of intention to marry unless waived for weighty
reasons, in which case the Bishop shall be notified immediately and in writing;
3. The Clergy shall provide counsel to both parties on Holy Matrimony with respect to
theological and social implications and responsibilities;
4. The Clergy shall ascertain that the man and woman, parties to the marriage, have a valid
marriage license.
Section 4 -
As marriage is a lifelong covenant between a man and a woman in which the two become one
flesh, it is both an ordinance of Creation, affirmed as such by our Lord, and commended by Saint
Paul as a sign of the mystical union between Christ and His Church (Matthew 19:3-9; Ephesians
5:22-32). Therefore, the failure of a marriage is always a tragedy. Scripture acknowledges our
fallen nature and does provide guidance to know when a marriage may be declared a nullity or
dissolved and allows the possibility of a subsequent marriage in certain circumstances (Matthew
19 and 1 Corinthians 7).
1. Couples who request to be married by a member of the Clergy of this Church must have
approval from their Bishop if either party has ever been divorced;
2. When a divorced person seeks permission to remarry, the Clergy must ascertain the pertinent
facts concerning a declaration of nullity or termination of marriage; and in the absence of a
declaration of nullity, forward such information to the Bishop in writing for his godly advice
and consent;
3. The Diocese is responsible to create a process by which this discernment may be made with
reasonable promptness.
Section 5 -
1. No Clergy knowingly, after due inquiry, shall solemnize any marriage if they have
unresolved concerns regarding any of the following impediments:
(a) Consanguinity and affinity as defined in the 1662 Book of Common Prayer;
(b) Mistaken identity;
(c) Absence of the capacity for free and intelligent choice;
(d) Bigamy, evidence of sexual perversion or conviction of a sexually related crime;
(e) Fraud, coercion, abuse or duress.
(f) Failure to conform to the teaching of this Church regarding man, woman, and marriage as
set forth in the Holy Scriptures and in these Canons.
2. Any declarations of nullity may only be granted by a Bishop with jurisdiction and shall be
based upon Scriptural principles including the foregoing impediments to marriage.
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Section 6 -
The Clergy shall require the parties to sign the following declaration:
“We, N.N. and N.N., desiring to receive the blessing of Holy Matrimony in the
Church, do solemnly declare that we hold marriage to be a lifelong union of husband
and wife as it is set forth in the Book of Common Prayer. We believe it is established
by God for the procreation of children and their nurture in the knowledge and love
of the Lord; for mutual joy, and for the help and comfort given one another in
prosperity and adversity; to maintain purity, so that husbands and wives, with all
the household of God, might serve as holy and undefiled members of the Body of
Christ; and for the upbuilding of Christ’s kingdom in family, church, and society, to
the praise of his holy Name. We do engage ourselves, so far as in us lies, to make
our utmost effort to establish this relationship and to seek God’s help thereto.
Section 7 -
In all cases marriages shall be solemnized according to the forms contained in an authorized
Book of Common Prayer, or other rite authorized by this Church and permitted by the Bishop.
Section 8 -
The Clergy shall cause to be recorded in the permanent records of the congregation the name, age,
and residence of each party. Such record shall be signed by the member of the Clergy, the married
parties, and at least two witnesses.
Canon 8
Of Standards of Sexual Morality and Ethics
Section 1 -
Clergy and lay leaders of this Church are called to be exemplary in all spheres of morality as a
condition of being appointed or remaining in office.
Section 2 -
In view of the teaching of Holy Scripture, the Lambeth Conference of 1998 and the Jerusalem
Declaration, this Church upholds faithfulness in marriage between a man and a woman in
lifelong union, and believes that abstinence is right for those who are not called to marriage, and
cannot legitimize or bless same sex unions or ordain persons who engage in homosexual
behavior. Sexual intercourse should take place only between a man and a woman who are
married to each other.
Section 3 -
God, and not man, is the creator of human life. The unjustified taking of life is sinful. Therefore,
all members and clergy are called to promote and respect the sanctity of every human life from
conception to natural death.
Section 4 -
The Church is called upon to show Christ-like compassion to those who have fallen into sin,
encouraging them to repent and receive forgiveness, and offering the ministry of healing to all
who suffer physically or emotionally as a result of such sin.
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20
TITLE III
Of Ministers, Their Recruitment, Preparation, Ordination,
Office, Practice and Transfer
Canon 1
Of Holy Orders in the Anglican Church in North America
Section 1 - Concerning the Historic Three-fold Pattern for Holy Orders
The Anglican Church in North America affirms what Anglicanism has always held, namely the
normality of the threefold pastoral ministry of Bishop, Presbyter and Deacon. Persons shall be
admitted to the office of Bishop, Presbyter or Deacon in this Church, and allowed to exercise any of
these offices, who have been called, examined, and ordained according to an authorized ordinal of
this Church, or ordained in some church whose orders are recognized and accepted by this Church.
Section 2 - Concerning Canonical Obedience to Those in Authority
Any person who has received authority to be a Presbyter or a Deacon in any Diocese of this
Church owes canonical obedience in all things lawful and honest to the Bishop of the Diocese,
and the Bishop of each Diocese owes canonical obedience in all things lawful and honest to the
Archbishop of this Church. In the absence of a Bishop, a Presbyter or a Deacon owes such
obedience to the Ecclesiastical Authority of the Diocese or to the Ecclesiastical Authority of a
Diocese-in-Formation.
Section 3 - Concerning the Domicile, Transfer, and Permission to Function of Presbyters and
Deacons Generally
In order to function as a Presbyter or a Deacon one must be under the episcopal authority of the
Bishop of a Diocese (that Diocese being one’s “Domicile”). No member of the Clergy shall
function in any Diocese other than the one in which the member of the Clergy is domiciled within
the meaning of this section without written permission from the Ecclesiastical Authority of the
Diocese in which the member of the Clergy desires to officiate. Permission to function as a
Presbyter or a Deacon in a Diocese other than one’s Domicile may be granted by the Bishop of such
other Diocese. Transfer of one’s Domicile to a different Diocese may be granted by the Bishop of
such other Diocese upon consent of the Bishop of one’s own Diocese. A Diocese may adopt
canonical provisions not in conflict with these Canons concerning such Transfers or Permissions.
Section 4 - Concerning Norms for Ordination Generally
Except as hereinafter provided, the norms for ordination shall be determined by the Bishop
having jurisdiction.
Canon 2
Of the Qualities of Those Who are to Be Ordained Deacons or Presbyters
Section 1 - Concerning General Requirements
Every Bishop shall take care that he admit no person into Holy Orders but such as he knows
either by himself, or by sufficient testimony, to have been baptized and confirmed, to be
sufficiently instructed in Holy Scripture and in the doctrine, discipline and worship of this
Church, as defined by this Province, to be empowered by the Holy Spirit and to be a wholesome
example and pattern to the entire flock of Christ.
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21
Section 2 - Concerning Requirements for Deacon According to Holy Scripture
In accordance with Holy Scripture, a Deacon must be worthy of respect, sincere, not indulging in
much wine, not pursuing dishonest gain, and one who holds the deep truths of the faith with a
clear conscience. They must first be tested, and then if there is nothing against them, let them
serve as Deacons (1 Timothy 3:8-13).
Section 3 - Concerning Requirements for Presbyter According to Holy Scripture
In addition to the qualifications above, and in accordance with Holy Scripture, a Presbyter must
be above reproach, not self-pleasing but self-controlled, upright, holy, disciplined, temperate,
hospitable, not given to drunkenness, not violent but gentle, not quarrelsome, not a lover of
money, not a recent convert, one who loves what is good and one who has a good reputation with
outsiders. A Presbyter must be able to preach and teach, holding firmly to the trustworthy
message as it has been taught, in order to encourage others by sound doctrine and to refute those
who oppose it (1 Timothy 3:1-7; 5:17; Titus 1:6-9).
Section 4 - Concerning Requirements for Married Candidates With and Without Children
In the case of persons who are or have been married, and/or have children, every Bishop shall
take care that such persons manage their own family well, for as Holy Scripture attests, “If
anyone does not know how to manage his own family, how can he take care of God’s church?”
(1Timothy 3:4-5, 12; Titus 1:6).
Section 5 - Concerning Upholding the Sanctity of Marriage Especially for Those to Be Ordained
Marriage as a lifelong covenant between a man and a woman, where the two become one flesh,
is both an ordinance of Creation, affirmed as such by our Lord, and commended by Saint Paul as
a sign of the mystical union between Christ and his Church (Matthew 19:3-9; Ephesians 5:22-
32). As wholesome examples and patterns to the entire flock of Christ, all married persons to be
admitted to Holy Orders shall remain married to their spouse for life, and in accordance with the
vows they exchanged in Holy Matrimony. Subject to Section 6 of this Canon, no person shall be
admitted into Holy Orders who has divorced and remarried.
Section 6 - Concerning Pastoral Exceptions to Section 5
The Archbishop of this Church, on an application made to him by the Bishop sponsoring a
person who by reason of Section 5 of this Canon could not otherwise be admitted into Holy
Orders may, upon a showing of good cause and particularly in light of the exceptions in Matthew
19 and 1 Corinthians 7, remove the impediment imposed by that section to the admission of the
person into Holy Orders. Pastoral exceptions may be made in accordance with the directions
given from time to time by the Archbishop acting in consultation with the College of Bishops.
Section 7 - Concerning Theological Training Requirements
No person shall be admitted into Holy Orders who has not been properly trained in Holy
Scripture, and the Doctrine, Discipline and Worship of this Church.
Canon 3
Of Deacons and Their Ordination
Section 1 - Concerning Prerequisites for Ordination
No person shall be ordained a Deacon in this Church until that person shall have passed a
satisfactory examination conducted by those appointed by the Bishop for this purpose, and shall
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22
have demonstrated sufficient knowledge of Holy Scripture, the Doctrine, Discipline and Worship
of this Church, and any other topics the Bishop shall deem necessary for the office and ministry
of Deacons.
Section 2 - Concerning the Required Declaration of Ordinands
No persons shall be ordained a Deacon in the Church until such person shall have subscribed
without reservation the following declaration:
“I do believe the Holy Scriptures of the Old and New Testaments to be the Word
of God and to contain all things necessary to salvation, and I consequently hold
myself bound to conform my life and ministry thereto, and therefore I do solemnly
engage to conform to the Doctrine, Discipline and Worship of Christ as this
Church has received them. And I do promise, here in the presence of Almighty
God and of the Church, that I will pay true and canonical obedience in all things
lawful and honest to the Bishop of _____, and his successors, so help me God.”
Section 3 - Concerning Length of Diaconate
1. We recognize the importance of the Vocational Diaconate as an essential and historic
ministry of the Church.
2. A Transitional Deacon shall not be ordained to the office of Presbyter for at least one year,
unless the Bishop having jurisdiction shall find good cause for the contrary, so that the
Deacon’s manner of life and ministry may be tested and observed before admission to the
order of Presbyter.
Canon 4
Of Presbyters and Their Ordination
Section 1 - Concerning Ordination Following Period of Diaconate
No person shall be ordained a Presbyter in this Church until that person shall have been ordained
a Deacon.
Section 2 - Concerning Prerequisites for Ordination
No person shall be ordained a Presbyter in this Church until that person shall have passed a
satisfactory examination conducted by those appointed by the Bishop for this purpose, and shall
have demonstrated sufficient knowledge of Holy Scripture and the Doctrine, Discipline and
Worship of this Church by examination in the following subjects, and any other qualities that the
Bishop deems necessary for the office of Presbyter:
1. Holy Scripture: The Bible, its contents and historical background and interpretive methods;
2. Church History;
3. Anglican Church History;
4. Doctrine: The Church’s teaching set forth in the Creeds and the Offices of Instruction;
5. Liturgics: The contents and use of the Book of Common Prayer, and knowledge of the proper
use of church music;
6. Moral Theology and Ethics;
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23
7. Ascetical Theology: With an emphasis on the prayer life and spirituality of the minister,
including the use of the Daily Office;
8. Practical Theology: The office and work of a Presbyter; the conduct of public worship;
principles of sermon composition and delivery; principles and methods of Christian
education in the parish; Constitution and Canons of this Church and the Diocese to which the
candidate belongs; and the use of the voice in reading and speaking;
9. The Missionary Work of the Church: How the Gospel has been passed from one language,
tribe and nation to another; basic principles of cross-cultural communication; mission
strategies; and personal relational evangelism and apologetics.
Section 3 - Concerning the Required Declaration of Ordinands
No Deacon shall be ordained a Presbyter in the Church until the Deacon shall have subscribed
the following declaration:
“I do believe the Holy Scriptures of the Old and New Testaments to be the Word
of God and to contain all things necessary to salvation, and I consequently hold
myself bound to conform my life and ministry thereto, and therefore I do solemnly
engage to conform to the Doctrine, Discipline and Worship of Christ as this
Church has received them. And I do promise, here in the presence of Almighty
God and of the Church, that I will pay true and canonical obedience in all things
lawful and honest to the Bishop of _____, and his successors, so help me God.”
Canon 5
Of Ministers Ordained in Jurisdictions not in Communion with this Church
Section 1 - Concerning Application for Holy Orders in this Church
When Ministers ordained in a Jurisdiction not ordered in the Historic Succession nor in
communion with this Church desire to be a Deacon or Presbyter in this Church, they shall apply
to a Bishop of this Church for ordination to the diaconate and presbyterate.
Section 2 - Concerning Pre-Ordination Requirements
If such ministers furnish evidence satisfactory to the Bishop for eligibility for ordination
pursuant to Canons 2 through 4 of this Title, they shall be examined on the points of Doctrine,
Discipline, Polity and Worship in which the Jurisdiction from which they have come differs from
this Church, and any other subject which the Bishop deems necessary and appropriate.
Section 3 - Concerning Ministers Ordained in Jurisdictions in the Historic Succession but not in
Communion with this Church
When a Minister ordained in a Jurisdiction by a Bishop of the Historic Succession but not in
communion with this Church desires to be received as a member of the Clergy of this Church,
the person shall comply with Sections 1 and 2 of this Canon. Thereafter, being satisfied of the
person’s theological qualifications and successful completion of the examination specified in
Canon III.3.1 and soundness in the faith, the Bishop may, with the advice and consent of the
Standing Committee or its equivalent:
1. Receive the person into this Church in the Orders to which already ordained by a Bishop in
the Historic Succession; or
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24
2. If the person was ordained by a Bishop whose authority to convey such orders has not been
recognized by this Church, ordain the person as a Deacon conditionally, and, in accordance
with Canon III.3.3.2, ordain the person a Presbyter conditionally (if previously ordained a
Presbyter), having previously baptized and confirmed the person conditionally if necessary.
Section 4 - Concerning Receiving a Bishop from another Jurisdiction not in Communion with
this Church
No Bishop from another jurisdiction not in Communion with this Church shall be received as a
Bishop of this Church except by the consent of the College of Bishops and in accordance with the
Canons of this Church.
Canon 6
Of the Acceptance and Dismissal of Clergy in this Church
Section 1 - Concerning the Transfer of Clergy from Jurisdictions in Communion with this Church
A Bishop may accept by Letter of Transfer a Deacon or Presbyter in good standing from any
Jurisdiction in communion with this Church. The accepting Bishop shall inquire of the
transferring Bishop concerning any past or existing disciplinary matter or other impediment
affecting the ministry of the transferring member of the Clergy.
Section 2 - Concerning Transfers from One Diocese of this Church to Another
1. Any Deacon or Presbyter of this Church transferring into a Diocese or other Jurisdiction of
this Church shall, in order to become a member of that Jurisdiction, present to the Bishop and
Diocese, a testimonial from the Bishop or other Ecclesiastical Authority of the Jurisdiction in
which he last had membership, setting forth the Deacon or Presbyter’s true standing and
character. The Testimonial, known as Letter of Transfer, which must be presented within six
months from the date of issue, may be in the following words:
“We hereby certify that the Reverend A. B., who has signified desire to be
transferred to the Ecclesiastical Authority of (name of Diocese Network or other
Jurisdiction) is a Presbyter (or Deacon) of (name of Diocese Network or other
Jurisdiction) in good standing.” (Signed)
2. The transferring Bishop shall disclose to the accepting Bishop any past or existing
disciplinary matter or other impediment affecting the ministry of the transferring member of
the Clergy.
Section 3 - Concerning Voluntary Resignation from the Ordained Ministry of this Church
1. Any Deacon or Presbyter in good standing may resign from the Ordained Ministry of this
Church by sending a resignation in writing to the Bishop with jurisdiction. The Bishop or
other Ecclesiastical Authority shall record the declaration and request so made, and shall
determine that the Deacon or Presbyter is not under discipline as defined in Title IV of these
canons, and that the resignation is not occasioned by misconduct or irregularity, but is
voluntary and for causes which do not affect the moral character of the Deacon or Presbyter.
Upon making this determination, the Bishop or other Ecclesiastical Authority shall defer
formal action upon the declaration for two months, and meanwhile shall lay the matter before
the Standing Committee or its equivalent for advice and consent. With its advice and consent,
the Bishop or other Ecclesiastical Authority may pronounce that such resignation is accepted
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25
and that the Deacon or Presbyter is released from the obligations of the Ministerial office,
and that the Deacon or Presbyter relinquishes the right to exercise in this Church the gifts and
spiritual authority as a Minister of God’s Word and Sacraments conferred in ordination.
2. The Bishop’s declaration shall state that the resignation was for causes which do not affect
the Deacon or Presbyter’s moral character, and shall, if requested, give a certificate to this
effect to the person so removed from the ministry of this Church. In all other cases of
resignation or renunciation of the ordained ministry, where there may be a question of
misconduct or irregularity, the Bishop shall follow the procedures outlined in Canon IV.7.
3. Any Deacon or Presbyter whose resignation has been accepted under this canon may request
that the Bishop write a commendatory letter to another Christian denomination or
jurisdiction.
4. A Deacon or Presbyter having voluntarily resigned from the ordained ministry of this Church
and not under the discipline of any ecclesial body may petition the Bishop having jurisdiction
in the diocese from which the Deacon or Presbyter resigned to restore the right to exercise in
this Church the gifts and spiritual authority as a Minister of God’s Word and Sacraments
conferred in ordination. The terms and conditions of such restoration shall be entirely within
the discretion of the Bishop having jurisdiction in the diocese from which the Deacon or
Presbyter resigned, with the advice and consent of the Standing Committee or its equivalent.
Canon 7
Of Rectors and Other Congregational Clergy
Norms for the calling, duties and support of Rectors and other Clergy, and the dissolution of a
pastoral relation shall be provided by each Diocese. Rectors shall be domiciled in the diocese to
which their congregation belongs.
Canon 8
Of Bishops
Section 1 - Concerning Requirements for Bishop According to Holy Scripture
A Bishop is called by God and the Church to be a shepherd who feeds the flock entrusted to his
care. A Bishop is an overseer of the flock and as such is called to propagate, to teach, and to
uphold and defend the faith and order of the Church willingly and as God wants him to – not
greedy for money, but eager to serve; not lording it over those entrusted to his care, but being a
wholesome example to the entire flock of Christ (1 Peter 5:2-3). These requirements are in
addition to the requirements set forth in Canon 2 for Deacon (1 Timothy 3:8-13) and for
Presbyter (1 Timothy 3:1-7; 5:17; Titus 1:6-9).
Section 2 - Concerning the Ministry of Bishops
By the tradition of Christ’s One, Holy, Catholic, and Apostolic Church, Bishops are consecrated
for the whole Church and are successors of the Apostles through the grace of the Holy Spirit
given to them. They are chief missionaries and chief pastors, guardians and teachers of doctrine,
and administrators of godly discipline and governance.
Section 3 - Concerning Criteria for the Episcopate
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26
To be a suitable candidate for the episcopate, a person must:
1. Be a person of prayer and strong faith;
2. Be pious, have good morals and exhibit Godly character;
3. Have a zeal for souls;
4. Have demonstrated evidence of the fruit of the Holy Spirit;
5. Possess the knowledge and gifts which equip him to fulfill the office;
6. Be held in good esteem by the faithful;
7. Be a male Presbyter at least 35 years old;
8. Have demonstrated the ability to lead and grow the Church.
Section 4 - Concerning the Election of Bishops
1. With the consent of the College of Bishops, a diocese may commence the process of
election of a Bishop. This consent to commence the process may be by electronic or
telephonic meeting of the College of Bishops. Such election will be subject to the approval
of the College of Bishops as described in this section.
2. Bishops shall be chosen by a Diocese in conformance with the constitution and canons of the
Diocese and consistent with the Constitution and Canons of this Church.
3. An electing body from the Diocese shall certify the election of a Bishop for consent by the
College of Bishops, or may certify two or three nominees from which the College of Bishops
may select one for the Diocese.
4. Where the originating body is newly formed, that body shall normally nominate two or three
candidates, from whom the College of Bishops may select one.
5. Consent or choice by the College of Bishops shall be based upon the canons for Holy Orders
as provided in Title III, Canon 2.4-6 and Canon 8. Consent or choice shall require the
affirmative vote of two-thirds of the membership of the College of Bishops present and
voting, which consent shall normally be given by the next regular meeting of the College of
Bishops and in writing to the originating body. For purposes of the election of Bishops at a
meeting of the College, a quorum shall be a majority of the active members of the College.
6. Upon the consent or choice of a Bishop-elect by the College of Bishops, the Archbishop shall
take order for the consecration and/or installation of such Bishop.
7. In the event the Bishop-elect or the nominees are rejected by the College of Bishops, the
College shall so inform the originating body in writing.
Section 5 - Concerning the Required Declarations at Consecration
No Presbyter shall be consecrated a Bishop in the Church until he shall have subscribed the
following declaration:
“I do believe the Holy Scriptures of the Old and New Testaments to be the Word of God
and to contain all things necessary to salvation, and therefore, I consequently hold myself
bound to conform my life and ministry thereto, and I do solemnly engage to conform to the
Doctrine, Discipline and Worship of Christ as this Church has received them.”
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27
“And I do promise, here in the presence of by Almighty God and of the Church, that I will
pay true and canonical obedience in all things lawful and honest to the Archbishop of the
Anglican Church in North America, and his successors; so help me God.”
Section 6 - Concerning Bishops for Special Mission
Bishops for Special Mission are Bishops elected by and serving directly under the College of
Bishops for a specific missionary purpose. The office of any Bishop for Special Mission shall be
created in consultation with the Executive Committee. Any male Presbyter of this Church
qualified by these Canons may be elected as a Bishop for Special Mission by the College of
Bishops.
Section 7 - Concerning Incapacity of the Diocesan Bishop
1. When a majority of the members of the Standing Committee or its equivalent have
significant concern regarding the physical or mental capacity of the diocesan bishop to
carry out his duties, they shall promptly notify the Archbishop who may appoint a pastoral
representative to assist the Standing Committee in addressing the concerns with the bishop
and his family.
2. If the matter is not resolved and a majority of the Standing Committee believe that the
Bishop is no longer able to carry out his duties due to a physical or mental incapacity, the
Standing Committee shall notify the Archbishop and ask the Bishop to submit to
examination by at least two licensed physicians or psychologists who have a specialty
appropriate to the circumstance and who shall render their opinion to the Standing
Committee and to the Bishop and his family. One of the physicians or psychologists shall be
chosen by the Bishop and one by the Standing Committee.
3. If, after considering the report of the physicians or psychologists the Standing Committee
determines that the Bishop is no longer able to carry out his duties due to a physical or
mental incapacity, the Standing Committee may, upon a two-thirds majority vote, ask the
bishop to resign or to take a medical leave of absence. The Standing Committee shall report
this matter to the Archbishop, who shall ensure that appropriate pastoral care is provided to
the Bishop and his family.
4. The Bishop shall have the right to appeal within 30 days of receiving written notification
of the determination of incapacity by the Standing Committee. The appeal shall be to the
Provincial Tribunal. The Tribunal shall review all evidence relevant to the appeal,
including testimony of witnesses. The Tribunal’s decision shall be based on the
preponderance of the evidence. A simple majority of the Tribunal shall be necessary to
render a decision and the decision shall be final. Pending the outcome of the appeal, the
Bishop shall automatically be placed on paid administrative leave.
5. If the Bishop refuses to comply with any provision of this canon, the Archbishop may issue a
Godly Admonition. If the Bishop refuses to comply with the Archbishop’s Godly
Admonition, such refusal shall constitute a presentable offense under Canon IV.2.
6. If the Bishop resigns, takes medical leave, or appeals to the Provincial Tribunal under the
provisions of this canon, the Ecclesiastical Authority shall be the Bishop Coadjutor, if there
be one, or the Standing Committee.
7. While the Bishop is on medical leave, the Bishop Coadjutor, if there be one, or the Standing
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28
Committee shall be the Ecclesiastical Authority until the Archbishop declares either the
Bishop competent to resume his duties or unable to do so. If the Archbishop declares the
Bishop unable to resume his duties, the Standing Committee may declare the office vacant
and the Diocese may proceed to seek the consent of the College of Bishops for the election
of a new Bishop pursuant to Canon III.8.4.1.
Section 8 – Procedure When the Episcopal Relationship is Imperiled or Hindered
1. Whenever the Bishop or a majority of the Standing Committee of the diocese (or its
equivalent) believe the pastoral relationship between the Bishop and the Diocese to be
imperiled or hindered by reason of dissension, either or both shall present the matter to
the Archbishop.
2. Upon notification of such imperilment or hindrance, the Archbishop shall promptly seek
reconciliation by whatever means he believes appropriate that is not inconsistent with
Holy Scripture. Both the Bishop and the Standing Committee of the diocese (or its
equivalent) shall participate cooperatively in the process. The Archbishop may issue
interim directives appropriate to the matter.
3. After good faith participation in this process, the Bishop or a two-thirds majority of the
Standing Committee may appeal to the Archbishop to issue a final judgment. Prior to issuing
a final judgment, the Archbishop shall consult with the Executive Committee and the
Chancellor of the Province. The Executive Committee may schedule a conference with the
Bishop and Standing Committee of the diocese before rendering its advice to the
Archbishop. At such conference, the parties may be heard and may be represented by a
person or persons of their choice.
4. The judgment of the Archbishop may include a leave of absence with pay for the Bishop,
a refusal to dissolve the episcopal relationship or a judgment of dissolution.
5. If the relationship is to be dissolved, the judgment may include terms and conditions for
compliance by both parties and must include a financial settlement to be determined at the
discretion of the Archbishop. The Archbishop shall in all cases render pastoral support to the
Bishop. Upon issuing such judgment, the Archbishop shall report the judgment to the
College of Bishops.
Section 9 – Concerning Voluntary Resignation by a Bishop from the Ordained Ministry of this Church
1. Any Bishop in good standing may resign from the Ordained Ministry of this Church by
sending a resignation in writing to the Archbishop. The Archbishop shall record the
declaration and request so made, and shall determine that the Bishop is not under discipline
as defined in Title IV of these canons, and that the resignation is not occasioned by
misconduct or irregularity, but is voluntary and for causes which do not affect the moral
character of the Bishop.
Upon making this determination, the Archbishop shall defer formal action upon the
declaration for sixty days, and meanwhile shall lay the matter before the College of Bishops
for advice and consent. With its advice and consent, the Archbishop may pronounce that such
resignation is accepted and that the Bishop is released from the obligations of the Ministerial
office, and that the Bishop relinquishes the right to exercise in this Church the gifts and
spiritual authority of a shepherd of the flock.
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29
2. The Archbishop’s declaration shall state that the resignation was for causes which do not
affect the Bishop’s moral character, and shall, if requested, give a certificate to this effect to
the person so released from the ministry of this Church. In all other cases of resignation or
renunciation of the Ordained Ministry of a Bishop, where there may be a question of
misconduct or irregularity, the Archbishop shall follow the procedures outlined in Canon
IV.7 and IV.4. Any Bishop who is released under this canon is also released from his
ministry as a Presbyter and Deacon within this Province.
3. Any Bishop whose resignation has been accepted under this canon may request that the
Archbishop write a commendatory letter to another Christian denomination or jurisdiction.
The Archbishop has sole discretion as to whether to grant such a request.
4. A Bishop having voluntarily resigned from the Ordained Ministry of this Church and not
under the discipline of any ecclesial body may petition the Archbishop to restore the right to
exercise in this Church the gifts and spiritual authority as a Bishop conferred in ordination.
The terms and conditions of such restoration shall be entirely within the discretion of the
Archbishop, with the advice of the Standing Committee of the Bishop’s previous diocese and
with the advice and consent of the College of Bishops.
30
TITLE IV
Ecclesiastical Discipline
Canon 1
Of the Nature of Discipline in the Church
The Church has its own inherent right to discipline the faithful who commit offenses. Penalties
are established only insofar as they are essential for repentance, reformation, and ecclesiastical
discipline and order.
Canon 2
Of Charges against and Godly Admonitions to Bishops, Presbyters, or Deacons
Section 1 - Concerning Charges
The following are the charges or accusations on which the Archbishop, a Bishop, a Presbyter, or
a Deacon in this Church may be presented:
1. Apostasy from the Christian Faith;
2. Heresy, false doctrine, or schism;
3. Violation of ordination vows;
4. Conduct giving just cause for scandal or offense, including the abuse of ecclesiastical power;
5. A conviction by a court of competent jurisdiction for felony or other serious offenses;
6. Sexual immorality;
7. Acceptance of membership in a religious jurisdiction with purpose contrary to that of this Church;
8. Violation of any provision of the Constitution of this Church;
9. Disobedience to, or willful contravention of the Canons of this Church or the constitution or
canons of the Diocese in which the charged or accused member of the clergy holds office;
10. Habitual neglect of the duties of the charged or accused member of the clergy’s office;
11. Habitual neglect of public worship, and the Holy Communion, according to the order and
use of this Church;
12. Willful refusal to follow a lawful Godly Admonition.
Section 2 - Concerning Godly Admonitions
A Godly Admonition is a written directive from (a) a Bishop with jurisdiction to a member of the
Clergy under his jurisdiction, (b) the Archbishop to a Bishop, or (c) the Dean of the Province to
the Archbishop. No Admonition shall be issued until the Bishop, Archbishop, or Dean of the
Province (or such person to whom authority has been validly delegated under these canons) shall
have met personally with the one receiving the Admonition and the issues have been clearly and
fairly discussed. The written Admonition shall be specific concerning the matter complained of
and the canonical or theological basis for the complaint, and shall provide a reasonable time for
any required action to be taken. A temporary suspension from the exercise of ministry requires
an Inhibition pursuant to Canon IV.9.
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In the case of an Admonition to a Bishop, the Archbishop must first obtain the written consent of
three of the five senior active diocesan members of the College of Bishops by date of admission
(exclusive of the Archbishop, any bishop who is the subject of the Admonition, and any Bishop
who may recuse himself) to the contents of the Admonition before its issuance.
In the case of an Admonition to the Archbishop, the Dean of the Province must first obtain the
written consent of three of the five senior active diocesan members of the College of Bishops by
date of admission (exclusive of the Dean of the Province and the Archbishop, and any Bishop
who may recuse himself) to the contents of the Admonition before its issuance.
Canon 3
Of Presentments of Presbyters and Deacons
Section 1 - Concerning Accusations
1. An accusation or accusations of conduct believed by the accuser(s) to be in violation of
Canon IV.2 may be brought against a Presbyter or a Deacon. Whenever possible the Bishop
shall meet with the accuser(s) in person to assess their credibility and the credibility of the
accusation(s).
2. The accusation(s) shall be in a writing that contains the facts supporting the allegations of
wrongdoing and shall be signed and sworn to by the accuser(s) and delivered to the Bishop.
3. If the Bishop deems the accuser(s) or the accusation(s) to be credible, he shall cause an
investigation to be made by a canonical investigator. If the Bishop deems the accuser(s) not
to be credible or the accusation(s) to be without any merit, or both, he shall inform the
accuser(s) of his determination in writing and the accuser(s) shall have the right, within 30
days of such determination by the Bishop to appeal his decision to the Standing Committee.
The Standing Committee shall then have 30 days to determine whether the accuser(s) and the
accusation(s) are credible, or to affirm the bishop’s decision. If they reverse the bishop’s
determination, in whole or in part, they shall cause an investigation to be made by a
canonical investigator.
4. Whenever the bishop believes he cannot fairly assess the credibility of the accuser(s), the
accusation(s), or the accused, or fairly impose sentence, he shall recuse himself and delegate
the investigation, presentment, and/or sentencing to another bishop having jurisdiction, or to a
bishop formerly having had jurisdiction who is still an active member of the College of Bishops.
5. During the pendency of the investigation, the details of the accusation(s) and the
investigation shall be maintained in appropriate confidence.
Section 2 - Concerning Voluntary Submission to Discipline
At any time after the receipt of an accusation(s), the accused may confess to the truth of the
allegation(s) and submit to the discipline of the Church.
Section 3 - Concerning Canonical Investigation, Presentment and Trial
1. Each Diocese shall appoint a canonical investigator to ascertain the merit of the accusations
and make a recommendation to the Ecclesiastical authority as to whether further juridical
process should be pursued.
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2. (a) No presentment shall be made or conviction had for any offense under Canon IV.2 unless
the offense shall have been committed within ten years immediately preceding the time of the
presentment. Such time may be extended by written permission of the Archbishop.
(b) For any offense covered by Canon IV.2.5, a presentment may also be made at any time
within one year after such conviction.
3. The accused shall be entitled to notice of an ongoing investigation. The accused has the right
to retain legal counsel or another representative and may submit his or her defense in writing.
The presenters also have the right to retain legal counsel or another representative.
4. The canonical investigator shall report the findings and make a recommendation to the
Diocesan authority within a reasonable time.
5. If it is determined by the Ecclesiastical authority that a trial should occur, then a presentment
shall be prepared and procedures followed according to the norms of ecclesiastical law. Such
procedures shall acknowledge the presumption of innocence of the accused, the right to
representation by counsel, the right to confront and examine witnesses and shall be consistent
with principles of fairness, due process and natural justice and shall require expeditious
handling consistent with those principles. No new rule of procedure shall be made while a
matter is pending that would be affected by that rule.
6. The Presbyter or Deacon accused in the presentment has the right to a trial within a
reasonable time, unless personally waived.
Section 4 - Concerning Requirements for a Presentment
1. When, after investigation of an accusation, the Ecclesiastical authority has determined that
the matter should proceed forward, Articles of Presentment shall be prepared and personally
served within a reasonable time upon the Presbyter or Deacon against whom the accusation
has been made.
2. Each Diocese shall have a person (lay or ordained) appointed by the Bishop for the drafting
of presentments and the presentation of the same before the Diocesan Trial Court.
3. The Articles of Presentment shall be made in a writing signed by a representative of the
diocesan authority, wherein shall be specified all particulars of time, place, and
circumstances alleged.
Canon 4
Of Presentments of Bishops
Section 1 - Concerning Requirements for Presentment
A Bishop may be charged under Canon IV.2 by three Bishops of this Church with jurisdiction, or
by not fewer than ten Presbyters, Deacons, or adult baptized members of this Church in good
standing, of whom at least two shall be Presbyters. One Presbyter and not fewer than six lay
persons shall belong either to the Diocese in which the alleged offense was committed or to the
Diocese in which the Bishop is canonically resident. Such charges shall be in writing, signed and
sworn to by all the accusers and shall be presented to the Archbishop, the Archbishop’s delegate,
or the College of Bishops. The grounds of accusation must be set forth with reasonable certainty
of time, place and circumstance. The charges shall be referred to the Board of Inquiry.
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33
Section 2 - Concerning Response to Rumors
Whenever a Bishop shall have reason to believe that there are in circulation rumors, reports, or
allegations affecting his personal or official character, he may, with the consent of two other members
of the College of Bishops, demand in writing of the Archbishop, the Archbishop’s delegate, or the
College of Bishops, that investigation of such rumors, reports and allegations be made.
Section 3 - Concerning the Board of Inquiry
The Archbishop upon receipt of a presentment under Section 1 or of a demand under Section 2
shall select a Board of Inquiry of five Presbyters and five adult baptized members in good
standing, none of whom shall belong to the Diocese of the accused, of whom eight shall form a
quorum, and refer the matter to it.
Section 4 - Concerning the Process of Inquiry
The Board of Inquiry shall investigate such rumors, reports, or charges, as the case may be. In
conducting the investigation, the Board shall hear the accusations and such proof as the accusers
may produce, and shall determine whether, upon matters of law and fact, as presented to them,
there are reasonable grounds to put the accused to trial.
Section 5 - Concerning Testimony and Confidentiality
The testimony to the Board of Inquiry shall be recorded and transcribed and shall be preserved in
the archives of the College of Bishops. The proceedings of the Board as to the investigation of
rumors shall be confidential; provided however that if the Board determines that the rumor is
unfounded it shall issue to the requesting Bishop a written statement to that effect.
Section 6 - Concerning the Findings of the Board of Inquiry
If in the judgment of two-thirds of the Board of Inquiry there is probable cause to present the
accused Bishop for trial for violation of Canon 2 of this Title, it shall make a public declaration
to that effect.
Canon 5
Of Courts, Membership and Procedures
Section 1 - Concerning Courts for the Trial of a Presbyter or a Deacon
1. In each Diocese there shall be an ecclesiastical Trial Court for the trial of any Presbyter or
Deacon subject to the jurisdiction of that Diocese.
2. It shall be the duty of each Diocese to provide by canon for the establishment of such court
and the mode of conducting trials in the same.
3. In case of conviction by the Trial Court, the Bishop shall not proceed to sentence the accused
before the expiration of thirty days after he shall have been served with notice of the decision
of the court, nor in case an appeal is taken shall sentence be pronounced pending the hearing
and determination thereof.
Section 2 - Concerning Courts for the Trial of a Bishop
1. There shall be a Court for the Trial of a Bishop, whose jurisdiction shall be limited to proceedings
against a Bishop of this Church, including the Archbishop, arising under these Canons.
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34
2. The members of this Court shall be three Bishops who are members of the College of
Bishops, two Presbyters, and two adult confirmed members in good standing. The members
of this Court shall be elected by the Provincial Council, each Order electing its
representatives by majority vote of that Order. An equal number of alternate members of this
Court shall be elected in the same manner, and such alternate(s) shall serve in the event of
any vacancies on the Court or the recusal of a member of the Court. In the event the list of
alternates is exhausted for an Order, the Archbishop shall fill those vacancies in consultation
with the Executive Committee until the Provincial Council meets to elect members of the
court or alternates. The term of each member of the Court shall be three years or until a
successor is elected and qualified.
3. The senior diocesan member of the College of Bishops in date of consecration shall be the
President of the Court (exclusive of the Bishop under trial and any Bishop who may recuse
himself). The Archbishop, or, in the case of a proceeding against the Archbishop, the Dean of
the Province, shall also appoint a legal advisor to the Court who shall be trained in canon
law, and a prosecutor, also trained in canon law, to bring and prosecute presentments when
necessary.
Section 3 - Concerning the Court of Extraordinary Jurisdiction
1. There shall be a Court of Extraordinary Jurisdiction, whose jurisdiction shall be limited to
proceedings either:
(a) referred by Bishops of this Church who have oversight of Clergy canonically attached to
other Anglican Provinces or Dioceses in those cases where such Provinces or Dioceses
have waived their jurisdiction in favor of the Court of Extraordinary Jurisdiction; or
(b) in which a member of the Clergy who is amenable to presentment under these canons is
attached to a Diocese not possessed of a trial court. Cases may be referred to the Court of
Extraordinary Jurisdiction by the Bishop under whose authority the accused serves.
2. The members of this Court shall be three Presbyters, three adult confirmed members in good
standing, and one Bishop, appointed by the Archbishop. The President of the Court shall be
elected by the members of the Court. The Archbishop shall also appoint a legal advisor to the
Court who shall be trained in canon law, and a prosecutor, also trained in canon law, to bring
and prosecute presentments when necessary. The term of each member of the Court shall be
three years or until a successor is elected and qualified.
Section 4 - Concerning the Provincial Tribunal
1. There shall be a Provincial Tribunal as provided in the Constitution of the Church. The
Provincial Tribunal shall serve: (1) as a court of review in the case of a conviction after trial of
a Bishop, Presbyter, or Deacon; and (2) as a court of original jurisdiction: (a) to hear and
decide matters in dispute arising from the Constitution and Canons of the Province, except in
Title IV prior to the role assigned to it in clause (1) above, (b) to hear and decide disputes
between Dioceses, (c) to hear and decide appeals by a bishop pursuant to Canons I.3.3(d) and
III.8.7(d) and (d) to issue nonbinding advisory opinions on issues submitted by the College of
Bishops, the Provincial Council, or the Provincial Assembly.
2. The Provincial Tribunal shall consist of seven members who shall be elected by the Provincial
Council. At least two members shall be Bishops; the senior Bishop in date of admission shall
Title IV
35
serve as the President of the Court. At least two members shall be lawyers, knowledgeable in
canon and ecclesiastical law. The term of each member of the Court shall be three years or until
a successor is elected and qualified. An equal number of alternate members of this Tribunal
shall be elected in the same manner, and such alternate(s) shall serve in the event of any
vacancies on the Tribunal or the recusal of a member of the Tribunal.
Section 5 - Concerning Appeal
1. An appeal may be made within thirty days of the decision of a Court for the Trial of a
Presbyter or a Deacon, the Court for the Trial of a Bishop, or the Court of Extraordinary
Jurisdiction. The appeal shall be made in writing to the Bishop who is the Presiding Officer
of the Provincial Tribunal, stating the nature of the case and the reason(s) for the appeal.
2. The Provincial Tribunal shall, within thirty days, request the entire transcript of the trial and
upon receipt of the transcript shall notify promptly all parties of the time and place for the
hearing of the appeal which shall be within three months but not fewer than two months from
the date of notification, unless agreed otherwise by all the parties.
3. The Provincial Tribunal shall render its decision on the appeal within thirty days of the
hearing. The expenses of the appeal shall be paid by the appellant, unless the appellant is
successful or the Provincial Tribunal orders otherwise.
Section 6 - Concerning the Process of the Appeal
1. The Provincial Tribunal shall hear the appeal based solely upon the record in the trial court.
The parties may submit written briefs and may request oral argument. The Provincial
Tribunal may reverse or affirm, in whole or in part, the appealed decision, or, if in its opinion
justice shall require, may grant a new trial.
2. Should the appellant fail to appear for the hearing, the Provincial Tribunal shall, at its
discretion, dismiss the appeal, or proceed to hear and determine the appeal.
Section 7 - Concerning Procedures
The Provincial Tribunal, the Court for Trial of a Bishop, the Court of Extraordinary Jurisdiction,
and the Trial Courts of the several Dioceses shall establish their own procedures, to include the
appointment of a recorder of proceedings. Such procedures shall acknowledge the presumption
of innocence of the accused, the right to representation by counsel, the right to confront and
examine witnesses and shall be consistent with principles of fairness, due process and natural
justice and shall require expeditious handling consistent with those principles. No new rule of
procedure shall be made while a matter is pending that would be affected by that rule. In all
courts of original jurisdiction, the standard of proof shall be by clear and convincing evidence.
Unless a higher standard is required by diocesan Canon for a Diocesan Trial Court, the
affirmative vote of not fewer than a majority of the members of a Court shall be required for any
determination by that Court.
Canon 6
Of a Member of the Clergy in Any Diocese Chargeable with Offense in Another
If a member of the Clergy belonging to any Diocese shall have conducted himself in another
Diocese in such a manner as to be liable to presentment under the provisions of Canon 2, the
Ecclesiastical Authority thereof shall give notice of the same to the Ecclesiastical Authority where
Title IV
36
the member of the Clergy is canonically resident, exhibiting, with the information given,
reasonable ground for proceeding. If the Ecclesiastical Authority of the alleged offender, after due
notice given, shall omit, for the space of three months, to proceed against the offending member
of the Clergy, or shall request the Ecclesiastical Authority of the Diocese in which the offense or
offenses are alleged to have been committed to proceed against him, it shall be within the power
of the Ecclesiastical Authority of the Diocese within which the offense or offenses are alleged to
have been committed to institute proceedings as provided by the canons of that Diocese.
Canon 7
Of Renunciation of Ministry
If a member of the Clergy making a declaration of resignation or renunciation of the ministry
under Canon III.6.4, be under accusation or presentment for any canonical offense, or if they
shall have been placed on trial for the same, the Ecclesiastical Authority to whom such
declaration is made, shall not consider or act upon such declaration until after the accusation or
presentment shall have been dismissed, or the trial shall have been concluded and sentence, if
any, pronounced. If the Ecclesiastical Authority to whom such declaration is made shall have
ground to suppose that the member of the Clergy making the same is liable to presentment for
any canonical offense, such member of the Clergy may, in the discretion of the Ecclesiastical
Authority, be placed on trial for such offense, notwithstanding such declaration of resignation or
renunciation of the ministry.
Canon 8
Of Sentences
Section 1 - Concerning the Sentencing of a Presbyter or a Deacon
The Bishop alone has the authority to pronounce sentence on a Presbyter or a Deacon convicted,
whether by trial or voluntary submission to the discipline of the Church, as indicated in these
canons. The Bishop may, upon recusing himself, delegate the sentencing to another Bishop
having jurisdiction or to a bishop formerly having had jurisdiction who is still an active member
of the College of Bishops. If there is no Bishop, the Archbishop or another Bishop designated by
the Archbishop shall pronounce sentence.
Section 2 - Concerning the Sentencing of a Bishop
The College of Bishops, speaking through the Archbishop or his designate, has the sole
responsibility and authority to pronounce sentence on a Bishop convicted, whether by trial or
voluntary submission to the discipline of the Church, as indicated in these canons.
Section 3 - Concerning Range of Sentencing
Sentence shall be:
1. Censure and/or admonishment;
2. Suspension, for a definite period, not to exceed five years;
3. Suspension for life; or
4. Deposition from the sacred ministry.
In addition, other measures for restoration of the accused may be required.
Section 4 - Concerning Length of Sentences
Upon a showing of good cause:
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1. A sentence of suspension of a Presbyter or a Deacon may be terminated or shortened by the
Bishop of the Diocese in which the Presbyter or Deacon was convicted with the advice and
consent of the Archbishop, in consultation with the Executive Committee;
2. A sentence of suspension of a Bishop may be terminated or shortened by the College of
Bishops with the consent of the Archbishop.
Canon 9
Of Inhibitions
Section 1 - Concerning Inhibitions
An Inhibition is a temporary suspension of a Bishop (including the Archbishop), a Presbyter, or a
Deacon from the exercise of ministry, in whole or in part, when one having authority under these
canons believes, upon reasonable grounds, that the accused has engaged in conduct upon which
the accused may be presented and that it is in the best interests of the Church to do so, pending
an accusation, canonical investigation, presentment, trial or voluntary submission to discipline
under these canons. An Inhibition may be used alone or in conjunction with a Godly Admonition
(ACNA IV.2.2). An inhibition shall be in writing, signed by one having authority under this
canon or one to whom authority has been validly delegated under these canons.
Section 2 - Concerning Inhibition of a Presbyter or a Deacon
1. A Bishop may temporarily Inhibit a Presbyter or a Deacon under this canon. Such temporary
Inhibition shall last no longer than sixty (60) days. With the advice and consent of the
Standing Committee or its equivalent, any Inhibition of a Presbyter or a Deacon may be
extended until such time as the Bishop lifts the Inhibition (with notice to the Standing
Committee or its equivalent), any charges arising from a presentment are dropped, action is
taken by a Trial Court, or the accused voluntarily submits to the discipline of the Church.
2. Upon application by a Presbyter or a Deacon who has been Inhibited under this Canon and
upon a showing of good cause, the Archbishop or his designate may modify or revoke the
Inhibition. Such decision shall be rendered within thirty (30) days of the application.
Section 3 - Concerning Inhibition of a Bishop
1. The Archbishop may temporarily Inhibit a Bishop under this canon. Prior to such temporary
Inhibition, the Archbishop must first obtain the written consent of the four of the five senior
active diocesan members of the College of Bishops by date of admission (exclusive of the
Archbishop, the Bishop who is the subject of the Inhibition, and any Bishop who may recuse
himself). Such temporary Inhibition shall last no longer than sixty (60) days.
2. With the written consent of four of the five senior active diocesan members of the College of
Bishops by date of admission (exclusive of the Archbishop, the Bishop who is the subject of
the Inhibition, and any Bishop who may recuse himself), any Inhibition of a Bishop may be
extended until the Archbishop lifts the Inhibition (with notice to the Standing Committee of the
Diocese of the Bishop inhibited and the panel of Bishops which authorized an extension of the
Inhibition), any charges arising from a presentment are dropped, action is taken by a Court for
the Trial of a Bishop, or the accused voluntarily submits to the discipline of the Church.
3. Upon application by a Bishop who has been Inhibited under this Canon and upon a showing
of good cause, the five senior active diocesan members of the College of Bishops by date of
Title IV
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admission (exclusive of the Bishop who is the subject of the Inhibition, any Bishop involved
in the original Inhibition, and any Bishop who may recuse himself) may by majority vote
modify or revoke the Inhibition in writing. Such decision shall be rendered within thirty (30)
days of the application.
Section 4 - Concerning Inhibition of the Archbishop
1. The Dean of the Province may temporarily Inhibit the Archbishop under this canon. Prior to
such Inhibition, the Dean of the Province must first obtain the written consent of four of the
five senior active diocesan members of the College of Bishops by date of admission
(exclusive of the Archbishop, the Dean of the Province, and any Bishop who may recuse
himself). Such temporary Inhibition shall last no longer than sixty (60) days. Notice shall be
given to the Standing Committee of the Diocese of the Archbishop within twenty-four (24)
hours of such Inhibition.
2. With the written consent of four of the five senior active diocesan members of the College of
Bishops by date of admission (exclusive of the Archbishop, the Dean of the Province, and
any Bishop who may recuse himself), any Inhibition of the Archbishop may be extended
until the Dean of the Province lifts the Inhibition (with the notice to the Standing Committee
of the Archbishop’s Diocese and the panel of Bishops who authorized an extension of the
Inhibition), any charges arising from a presentment are dropped, action is taken by a Court
for the Trial of a Bishop, or the accused voluntarily submits to the discipline of the Church.
3. Upon application by the Archbishop and upon a showing of good cause, the five senior active
diocesan members of the College of Bishops by date of admission (exclusive of the
Archbishop, any Bishop involved in the original Inhibition, and any Bishop who may recuse
himself) may by majority vote modify or revoke the Inhibition in writing. Such decision shall
be rendered within thirty (30) days of the application.
Canon 10
Of Notification of Disciplinary Action Taken
The Bishop or Archbishop pronouncing sentence shall within thirty (30) days after the sentence
becomes final and not subject to appeal, notify the Office of the Archbishop, who shall notify all
Bishops with jurisdiction and shall maintain a permanent record of the action. The sentencing
Bishop shall also notify all of the clergy in the diocese in which the deacon or presbyter has been
sentenced. Such required notice shall be limited to the offence under Canon IV.2 for which the
member of the clergy has been presented, tried, and convicted, or voluntarily submitted to the
discipline of the Church, and the sentence imposed under Canon IV.8. Should a sentence be
amended or terminated, notification of such amendment or termination shall also be reported to
the Office of the Archbishop who shall promptly give notice to all Bishops with jurisdiction and
record the amendment or termination in the permanent record.
Canon 11
The Provincial List
1. The Office of the Archbishop shall maintain a list of all those clergy who have been tried and
convicted, or who have voluntarily submitted to the discipline of the Church, for any offense
listed in Canon IV.2.
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2. The list shall include (a) the name of the clergyperson, (b) the offense under Canon IV.2 for
which they were presented, tried and convicted, or voluntarily submitted to the discipline of
the Church, (c) the sentence imposed under Canon IV.8 and any other measures required for
the restoration of the clergyperson and the victims, (d) the date of the sentence, and (e) the
name of the Bishop who imposed the sentence.
3. It is the responsibility of each Bishop with jurisdiction to ensure that the diocesan records are
complete and accurate and that the information required under this canon has been provided
to the Office of the Archbishop pursuant to Canon IV.10.
4. Those marked on the list will be informed of its entry and its content by the Office of the
Archbishop.
5. The Provincial List may be accessed only by the Archbishop, Bishops having jurisdiction,
Provincial Chancellors and Diocesan Chancellors, provided however that the Archbishop and
Bishops having jurisdiction may designate in writing such persons on their respective staffs
who shall have access to the Provincial List for the limited purposes of administration of the
list or screening candidates for deployment.
6. Where a sentence has been shortened or terminated for a clergyperson under these canons,
the Office of the Archbishop shall note the date and name of the Bishop who shortened or
terminated the sentence in the entry for that clergyperson.
40
TITLE V
Enactment, Amendment, and Repeal of Canons
Canon 1
Of Enactment, Amendment, and Repeal
Section 1 - Concerning New Canons
No new canon shall be enacted or existing canon amended or repealed, except by majority vote
of the Provincial Council and ratification of such action by majority vote of the Provincial
Assembly.
Section 2 - Concerning the Repealing of Canons
Whenever a canon which repeals another canon, or part thereof, shall itself be repealed, such
previous canon or part thereof shall not thereby be revived or re-enacted without express
provision to that effect.
Section 3 - Concerning the Form of Amendment
The following form shall be used in all cases of enactment or amendment of existing canons:
“Title ___, Canon ___, Section___ is hereby [enacted] [amended] to read as follows: [Here
insert the new reading].”
In the event of the insertion of a new canon, or of a new section or clause in a canon, the
numbering of the canons or divisions of a canon which follow shall be changed accordingly.
Section 4 - Concerning the Form of Repeal
The following form shall be used in all cases for the repeal of a canon:
“Title ___, Canon ___, Section___ [or Canon ___ in its entirety] is hereby repealed.”
In the event of the repeal of a canon, or of a section or clause in a canon, the numbering of the
canons or divisions of a canon which follow shall be changed accordingly.
Section 5 - Concerning Effective Dates
Any amendment to these canons, or repeal thereof, shall not become effective until ninety (90)
days following ratification by the Provincial Assembly. In the case of the adoption of the initial
set of canons by the inaugural Assembly, such canons shall become effective immediately upon
their ratification by majority vote of the Assembly.
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41
We certify that the foregoing is the text is the text of the Canons of the Anglican Church in
North America adopted by the Common Cause Leadership Council functioning as the
Provincial Council and ratified with amendments by the Provincial Assembly at its meeting
at Saint Vincent’s Cathedral, Bedford, Texas, on the 22nd day of June in the Year of our
Lord 2009.
The Right Reverend Robert W. Duncan The Venerable Charlie Masters
Archbishop of the Anglican Church in Acting Deputy Chair and Bishop-Elect
North America
I certify that the text of the Canons set out above is the text of the Canons of the Anglican
Church in North America ratified by the Provincial Assembly at its meeting at Saint
Vincent’s Cathedral, Bedford, Texas, on the 22nd day of June in the Year of Our Lord
2009.
The Rev. Travis S. Boline
Acting Secretary
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42
APPENDIX A
Guidelines for Submitting an Application Form to the Provincial Council for
Recognition as a New Diocese/Network or as a
Diocese/Network “In Formation”
Step one is to obtain an application form and application guidelines, which can be downloaded at
the ACNA website (www.anglicanchurch-na.org). Please bear in mind the following principles
as you pray over your application.
Principles for the Application Process for New Diocese/Network:
We ask each group applying for recognition as a diocese or network of the Anglican Church in
North America to commit to the following principles:
1. The new province is committed to organizing itself around the historic principle that parishes
form around a bishop. Simultaneously, it recognizes that either geographic proximity or affinities
because of relationship are equally valid ways of practicing that principle. The additional
principles that follow are designed to respect the choice of each congregation for either affinity
or geography as its organizing principle.
2. The application process will be open to the whole of the province of ACNA from the start of
each application. The purpose of this principle of openness is so that each congregation and
church-start in the area of the group may be invited to participate and so that the whole
Provincial Council will be informed of all congregations being invited to consider participation
in a new grouping.
3. The leadership of each group applying will practice the principles of invitation and blessing.
The principle of invitation refers to the attitude and practice of inviting every congregation and
church-start to come and participate fully in the organizing of the proposed new diocese or
network. The principle of blessing means that we are all committed to bless any congregation
choosing to remain in its existing jurisdiction rather than participate in a new group.
4. Each congregation commits to openness with its existing bishop/jurisdiction concerning its
participation in the formation of the diocese/ network that, if accomplished, might have the effect
of removing that congregation from its present affiliation with that bishop/jurisdiction.
5. In the early work of the Province it is anticipated that some congregations are making a
preliminary affiliation, subject to subsequent realignment for emerging new missionary reasons
as new congregations and new dioceses/networks emerge.
6. Bishops and priests who are leading groups that are considering application to form new
dioceses/networks will promptly notify other bishops with churches in the area considered after
determining which congregations will be invited to participate in organizing a new grouping.
7. Bishops and priests who are leading existing or potential dioceses/ networks should take
geographical considerations into account so that regional ministry is encouraged.
Step two is to consider the counsel provided in these guidelines to assist you in filling out the
application form. The guidelines are keyed to each item on the application form.
Title V
43
APPLICANT INFORMATION
1. Recognition Sought. Canon I.5.1 specifies that a diocese or network is a grouping
gathered for mission under the oversight of a bishop consisting of a minimum of twelve
congregations with an ASA of at least 50 each and a collective ASA of at least 1,000.
Canon I.5.1 notes, however, that a grouping not meeting these minimum specifications may
be recognized on a case-by-case basis at the discretion of the Provincial Council.
Therefore, each potential grouping must decide whether it meets the normal minimal
standards as stated above, or whether it might qualify as an exception to policy based on
other considerations (See 8 below), or if it might more appropriately apply as a grouping
“In Formation.” Note also that Article II of the Constitution specifies that new groupings
(dioceses or networks) can be either regional or affinity based.
2. Rationale for Becoming a Diocese/Network or Diocese/Network “In Formation”.
Answers to the following five questions must be submitted along with the completed
application.
(1) Is there a compelling missional reason for not becoming a part of an existing ACNA
diocese in your geographic area?
(2) How will your application support the development of ACNA as one, united Biblical
and missionary church reaching North America with the transforming love of Jesus
Christ?
(3) What other reasons do you have for forming a new diocese or diocese-in-formation?
(4) Are all of the diocesan bishops and vicar-generals of existing ACNA dioceses or
dioceses-in-formation which have churches in the geographic area where you are
forming in agreement with your application?
(5) If not, what efforts have you made to address their concerns?
3. Proposed Name. For the sake of consistency, the form of the name shall be “The Diocese
of ____________” or “The ____________ Network.” Names may be geographical such as
“Pittsburgh” or “the Mid West,” symbolic such as “Forward in Faith” or “Living Waters,”
or for a saint such as “St. Stephen” or “St. James.” Proposing an alternative name is
suggested in the event that Provincial Council is aware that the first proposed name is
already taken by another ACNA entity or is deemed inappropriate for other good reason.
4. Recommended Nominees. All groupings are to be united by a bishop (Article IV) except
those “In Formation,” which may be led by a Vicar General at the discretion of the
Archbishop (Canon I.5.6). The College of Bishops has authority in the election of bishops
as set out in Article X.5. Canon I.5.5 states that the application shall contain the name of
the recommended nominee or nominees for Bishop. In the case of a newly formed
originating body, Canon III.8.4.3 states that that body shall normally nominate two or three
candidates. In the case of a single nominee the College may grant consent for his
consecration, or in the case of multiple nominees the College may choose one and grant
consent for his consecration (Article X). Canon III.8.3 provides further criteria for the
episcopate, to include the stipulation that an eligible candidate for bishop will be a duly
ordained male presbyter of at least 35 years of age.
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5. Name/Phone/Email Address of Primary Contact. This individual will serve as the
primary point of contact if the Provincial Council needs further information or clarification.
Note that the information requested in Items 5-12 should be provided on attached pages.
6. Summary History and Mission. This section provides an opportunity for groupings to
give a brief summary of how and when they came together and how they’ve progressed
over time with regard to local mission, ministry, governance, fellowship, discipleship, and
common worship. It will be most helpful to include evidence of ministry that is bearing
fruit in terms of souls coming to know Christ, congregations being planted, aspirants for
Holy Orders being raised up, discipleship going deeper, and future plans. Again, this
section need not be lengthy.
7. Legal Status. Each grouping of congregations should obtain 501(c)(3) status at the group
level even if constituent congregations have their own non-profit status. Each congregation
will want to have non-profit status if it intends to own property. Information on the status
of group and constituent congregation insurance programs will be helpful. Also useful will
be information on grouping and constituent congregation constitution and canons, by-laws,
or other governing documents. It is not necessary to attach such documents to this
application. Article IV recognized the right of each grouping to establish and maintain its
own governance, constitution and canons not inconsistent with the provisions of the
Constitution and Canons of the Province. While not required at this time, future canons
may require each grouping to write a constitution and canons in support of the Provincial
Constitution and Canons.
8. Group and Constituent Congregations ASA (average Sunday attendance for all
Sundays).
a. Give the total number of congregations with an ASA of 50 or more, and their current
Anglican affiliations. Also, provide the name, location, and name of rector for each of
these congregations.
b. Identify every other congregation in the grouping by name, location, name of rector,
ASA, and current Anglican affiliation.
c. Only the total ASA for the entire grouping is required here. Count all congregations to
include both those over and under an ASA of 50.
9. Request for Waiver of Canon I.5.1 Standards. As stated in 1 above, Canon I.5.1
provides for a possible exception to standards for those groupings that may fall short of the
numerical standards and yet by virtue of other factors believe that they should not be placed
in the temporary “In Formation” status. This section provides the opportunity to describe
other factors that the Provincial Council might consider in granting full status as an
exception to numerical standards. Such factors could include such matters as falling a bit
short of twelve congregations with an ASA of 50 but having a collective ASA well above
1,000 or perhaps falling a bit short in both categories but demonstrating outstanding fruit in
areas of evangelism, church planting and congregational growth.
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10. Vestry Verification.
a. This is a simple certification statement that the vestry or comparable governing board
of each congregation in the grouping has officially subscribed to the Constitution and
Canons of the Anglican Church in North America.
b. This too is a certification statement that each constituent congregation has notified its
domestic bishop, or overseas bishop if that congregation does not have a domestic
bishop, of intention to change jurisdiction by becoming part of a new grouping that will
receive its own bishop. By endorsing the Constitution and Canons, the ACNA bishops
have already granted permission for their congregations to enter into new groupings.
Therefore, while only notification rather than permission is required, it is only prudent,
godly, and gracious for each congregation to discuss this matter with its bishop prior to
a decision to become part of a new grouping. Note however, that approval of an
application for recognition as a new ACNA grouping would not in and of itself
constitute actual release and transfer from an overseas jurisdiction. Such actual release
and transfer can come only when the appropriate overseas jurisdictional bishops have in
fact granted said release and transfer. Note that as stated in Principle 2 above, no
congregation is required to join a new grouping to be a member of the ACNA. A
congregation may remain in its existing jurisdiction. Congregations that choose to
remain under the overseas jurisdictions of Kenya, Uganda, and the Southern Cone are
considered members of the Province by virtue of belonging to the Missionary
Convocations of Kenya, Uganda, and the Southern Cone as stated in Article II.
However, it should be noted that overseas jurisdiction has always been intended to be
temporary, and the time may be approaching when overseas bishops will release their
congregations to the jurisdiction of the ACNA and those congregations will then need
to transfer to some grouping (diocese or network) within the ACNA.
11. Budget. Article XIII states that each grouping agrees to share in the cost of operating the
Province as provided by canon. Canon I.9 states that the biblical principles of tithing shall
be taught and encouraged at every level within the Province. While acknowledging the
tithe as the underlying principle of the new province, it is accepted that some ACNA
jurisdictions already have a giving procedure in place that cannot be immediately altered
easily. Permission is therefore given to continue those current systems of giving that it is
understood must stay in place for now, but with intentional steps and designs in place to
move into the uniformity of the tithe as the standard for all the province. Congregations
moving into new groupings are encouraged to give ten percent of local income to the new
grouping, while each new grouping is encouraged to give ten percent of group income to
the support of the cost of operating the Province. Each grouping therefore should describe
in this section its current and proposed budget and the procedures and levels for
congregational financial support of the grouping. A key concern should be to demonstrate
plans for the support of the office of the local bishop, who will need minimal staffing,
compensation, and operational funds even if part of his support comes from his position as
rector of a parish. Although the tithe is encouraged at all levels, giving levels are voluntary.
There will be some as yet undetermined time of transition with regard to giving to overseas
provinces. Their fellowship, godly oversight, and mutual ministry are some of the greatest
gifts we have received during these last few years. All ACNA groupings and congregations
are expected to further develop the depth of Mission Partnerships with our overseas
brothers and sisters. Financial support to them will need to transition from the tithe portion
of budgets to the world missions/outreach portion of budgets.
12. Application Decision. Describe briefly how the grouping and its constituent congregations
decided to band together in submitting this application to include a description of the
process used to recommend nominees for Bishop or Vicar General as appropriate.
13. Other Relevant Information. Use this section as needed to describe any other information
pertinent to this application but not provided for above.
14. Signatures. The application needs to be signed by the governing committee or council of
the grouping. These signatures constitute verification that the information provided is true
and accurate. It is also an acknowledgement of and commitment to the Principles for the
Application Process set out above.