Current Canons

THE ANGLICAN CHURCH IN NORTH AMERICA
CONSTITUTION AND CANONS
As ratified by the Inaugural Provincial Assembly, June 2009

and amended by the fourth Provincial Assembly, June 2017
Digitally signed by The
The Rev. Rev. Dr. Travis S. Boline

DN: cn=The Rev. Dr. Travis
S. Boline, o=Anglican
Dr. Travis Church in North America,

ou=Provincial Secretary,
[email protected]
S. Boline m, c=US
Date: 2017.07.26 15:24:30
-04'00'
THE CONSTITUTION OF
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.
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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 American Anglican Council
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
The Reformed Episcopal Church
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.
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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.
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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
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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 affinity-
based), 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.
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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
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THE CANONS OF
Table of Contents
Title I
Organization and Administration of the Church
Definition of Terms ......................................................................................................page 1
Canon 1 - Of the Council.............................................................................................page 1-2
Section 1 - Concerning Governance
Section 2 - Concerning Membership
Section 3 - Concerning Meetings of the Council
Section 4 - Concerning the Executive Committee
Section 5 - Concerning Officers of the Church
Canon 2 - Of the Assembly ..........................................................................................page 3-4
Section 1 - Concerning Mission
Section 4 - Concerning Youth Representation
Section 5 - Concerning Meetings
Section 6 - Concerning the Presiding Officer
Canon 3 - Of the College of Bishops ...........................................................................page 4
Section 1
Section 2
Section 3
Canon 4 - Of Committees.............................................................................................page 4
Concerning Initial Committees
Canon 5 - Of Dioceses .................................................................................................page 4-5
Section 1 - Concerning Structure
Section 3 - Concerning Standing Committees
Section 4 - Concerning Oversight by Other Anglican Provinces
Section 5 - Concerning Applying for Diocesan Status
Section 6 - Concerning Diocese-In-Formation Status
Section 7 - Concerning Diocesan Sustainability
Canon 6 - Of Congregations........................................................................................page 6-7
Section 1 - Concerning Congregational Mission
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Section 2 - Concerning Congregations
Section 3 - Concerning Organization
Section 4 - Concerning Congregational Clergy and Lay Employees
Section 5 - Concerning Governing Boards
Section 6 - Concerning Property Ownership
Section 7 - Concerning Planting New Congregations
Section 8 - Concerning Annual Reports
Section 9 - Concerning Transfer or Withdrawal
Canon 7 - Of Ministry Partners, Affiliated Ministries, Religious Orders,
Other Christian Communities and Solitary Religious.......................................page 7-8
Section 1 - Concerning Cooperation
Section 2 - Concerning Ministry Partners
Section 3 - Concerning Affiliated Ministries
Section 4 - Concerning Religious Orders
Section 5 – Concerning Christian Communities or Societies
Section 6 – Concerning Solitary Religious
Canon 8 - Of Visitors ...................................................................................................page 8
Canon 9 - Of Finances.................................................................................................page 8-9
Section 1 - Concerning the Tithe
Section 2 - Concerning Finance and Budget
Section 3 - Concerning Financial Responsibility and Accountability
Canon 10 - Of the Laity ...............................................................................................page 9-10
Section 1 - Concerning Ministry
Section 2 - Concerning Duties of the Laity
Section 3 - Concerning Membership in the Church
Canon 11 - Of the Special Jurisdiction for the Armed Forces and Chaplaincy .......page 10-12
Section 1
Section 2
Section 3
Section 4
Section 5
Section 6
Section 7
Section 8
Section 9
Section 10
Section 11
Section 12
Section 13
Canon 12 - Of Missionary Districts.............................................................................page 12
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Title II
Worship and the Administration of Sacraments
Canon 1 - Of Translations of the Bible .......................................................................page 13
Canon 2 - Of the Standard Book of Common Prayer ................................................page 13
Section 1
Section 2
Canon 3 - Of the Due Celebration of the Lord’s Day ................................................page 13
Canon 4 - Of the Administration of the Dominical Sacraments ................................page 13-14
Section 1 - General
Section 2 - Concerning Christian Formation
Section 3 - Concerning the Holy Communion
Canon 5 - Of the Music of the Church .......................................................................page 14
Canon 6 - Of Lay Worship Ministry............................................................................page 14
Canon 7 - Of Christian Marriage ................................................................................page 14-16
Section 1
Section 2
Section 3
Section 4
Section 5
Section 6
Section 7
Section 8
Canon 8 - Standards of Sexual Morality and Ethics ..................................................page 16-17
Section 1
Section 2
Section 3
Section 4
Title III
Of Ministers, Their Recruitment, Preparation, Ordination,
Office, Practice and Transfer
Canon 1 - Of Holy Orders in the Anglican Church in North America .....................page 18
Section 1 - Concerning the Historic Three-fold Pattern for Holy Orders
Section 2 - Concerning Canonical Obedience to Those in Authority
Section 3 – Concerning the Domicile, Transfer, and Permission to Function of
Presbyters and Deacons Generally
Section 34 - Concerning Norms for Ordination Generally
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Canon 2 - Of the Qualities of Those Who are to be Ordained Deacons and Presbyters
Section 1 - Concerning General Requirements .............................................................page 18-19
Section 2 - Concerning Requirements for Deacon According to Holy Scripture
Section 3 - Concerning Requirements for Presbyter According to Holy Scripture
Section 4 - Concerning Requirements for Married Candidates
With and Without Children
Section 5 - Concerning Upholding the Sanctity of Marriage Especially for
Those to be Ordained
Section 6 - Concerning Pastoral Exceptions to Section 5
Section 7 - Concerning Theological Training Requirements
Canon 3 - Of Deacons and Their Ordination .............................................................page 19-20
Section 1 - Concerning Prerequisites for Ordination
Section 2 - Concerning the Required Declaration of Ordinands
Section 3 - Concerning Length of Diaconate
Canon 4 - Of Presbyters and Their Ordination ..........................................................page 20-21
Section 1 - Concerning Ordination Following Period of Diaconate
Canon 5 - Of Ministers Ordained in Jurisdictions not in Communion .....................page 21-22
with this Church
Section 1 - Concerning Application for Holy Orders in this Church
Section 2 - Concerning Pre-Ordination Requirements
Section 3 - Concerning Ministers Ordained in Jurisdictions in the Historic
Succession but not in Communion with this Church
Section 4 - Concerning Receiving a Bishop from another Jurisdiction not in
Communion with this Church
Canon 6 - Of the Acceptance and Dismissal of Clergy in this Church .....................page 22-23
Section 1 - Concerning the Transfer of Clergy from Jurisdictions in
Section 2 - Concerning Transfers from one Diocese of this Church to Another
Section 3 - Concerning Transfer to Another Christian Denomination or Jurisdiction
Section 4 - Concerning Voluntary Resignation from the Ordained Ministry of this Church
Canon 7 - Of Rectors and Other Congregational Clergy ...........................................page 23
Canon 8 - Of Bishops ...................................................................................................page 23-25
Section 1 – Concerning Requirements for Bishop According to Holy Scripture
Section 2 – Concerning the Ministry of Bishops
Section 3 – Concerning Criteria for the Episcopate
Section 4 – Concerning the Election of Bishops
Section 5 – Concerning the Required Declarations at Consecration
Section 6 – Concerning Bishops for Special Mission
Section 7 – Concerning Incapacity of the Diocesan Bishop
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Section 8 – Concerning Bishops Coadjutor and Bishops Suffragan
TITLE IV
Ecclesiastical Discipline
Canon 1 - Of the Nature of Discipline in the Church ................................................page 26

Canon 2 - Of Charges against Bishops, Presbyters, or Deacons ...............................page 26
Canon 3 - Of Presentments of Presbyters and Deacons .............................................page 27-28
Section 1 - Concerning Accusations
Section 2 - Concerning Voluntary Submission to Discipline
Section 3 - Concerning Canonical Investigation
Section 4 - Concerning Requirements for Presentment
Canon 4 - Of Presentments of Bishops .......................................................................page 28
Section 2 - Concerning Response to Rumors
Section 3 - Concerning the Board of Inquiry
Section 4 - Concerning the Process of Inquiry
Section 5 - Concerning Testimony and Confidentiality
Section 6 - Concerning the Findings of the Board of Inquiry
Canon 5 - Of Courts, Membership and Procedures ...................................................page 29-30
Section 1 - Concerning Courts for the Trial of a Presbyter or Deacon
Section 2 - Concerning Courts for the Trial of a Bishop
Section 3 - Concerning Court of Extraordinary Jurisdiction
Section 4 - Concerning the Provincial Tribunal
Section 5 - Concerning Appeal
Section 6 - Concerning the Process of the Appeal
Section 7 - Concerning Procedures
Canon 6 - Of a Member of the Clergy in Any Diocese Chargeable ...........................page 31
with Offense in Another
Canon 7 - Of Renunciation of Ministry ......................................................................page 31
Canon 8 - Of Sentences ...............................................................................................page 31-32
Section 1 - Concerning the Role of the Bishop in Sentencing
Section 2 - Concerning Pronouncement of Sentence
Section 3 - Concerning Range of Sentencing
Section 4 - Concerning Length of Sentences
Canon 9 - Of Inhibitions..............................................................................................page 32
Section 1 - Concerning Inhibition of a Presbyter or Deacon
Section 2 - Concerning Inhibition of a Bishop
Canon 10 - Of Notification of Disciplinary Action Taken .........................................page 32
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TITLE V
Enactment, Amendment, and Repeal of Canons
Canon 1 - Of Enactment, Amendment, and Repeal ...................................................page 33
Section 1 - Concerning New Canons
Section 2 - Concerning the Repealing of Canons
Section 3 - Concerning the Form of Amendment
Section 4 - Concerning the Form of Repeal
Section 5 - Concerning Effective Dates
APPENDIX A
Recognition as a New Diocese/Network or as a Diocese/Network
“In Formation”
Guidelines .....................................................................................................................page 35
Application Information ..............................................................................................page 36-39
Application Form .........................................................................................................page 40
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TITLE I
THE CANONS OF
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.
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.
Diocese - The term “Diocese” includes a diocese or network (whether regional or affinity-based).
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
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, shall approve policy, and shall adopt changes to the constitution and canons for
ratification by majority vote of 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.
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
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TITLE I
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 three year 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
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 may 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.
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.
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This section was amended by the Provincial Council and ratified by the Assembly at its meeting on June 29, 2017.
It becomes effective on September 27, 2017.
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TITLE I
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.
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.
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
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.
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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 –
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
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
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
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.
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
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with an ASA of at least fifty (50) each and a collective ASA of at least one thousand (1,000). 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.
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. The application form shall prescribe, at a
minimum, basic information concerning the history, mission and legal status of the group,
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 Diocesan Sustainability
The Executive Committee shall review the annual Diocesan Reports with the objective of
determining the sustainability of the several dioceses. The Executive Committee may open a
dialogue with any diocese it feels is in need of assistance with the objective of strengthening its
sustainability.
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Canon 6
Of Congregations
Section 1 - Concerning Congregational Mission
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 by-
laws. 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
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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
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. The Bishop shall be responsible for preparing a composite report of all such
reports received and forward the same to the Executive Committee of the Province no later than
May 1 of each year. The Executive Committee shall cause to be prepared a report to the
Archbishop on the status and growth of the Province.
Section 9 - Concerning Transfer or Withdrawal
Congregations reserve the right to seek transfer between Dioceses of the Church with the
permission of the Bishops involved. Congregations also reserve the right to disaffiliate from the
Church after consultation with their Bishop. A congregation joining or transferring into a
Diocese becomes subject to the constitution and canons of the Diocese.
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.
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
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TITLE I
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 2
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
2
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TITLE I
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 3
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 his or her instruction in the Faith so as to remain an effective minister for the
Lord Jesus Christ;
12. To devote themselves to the ministry of Christ among those who do not know Him, utilizing
the gifts that the Holy Spirit gives them, for the effective extension of Christ’s Kingdom.
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Section 3 - Concerning Membership in the Church 4

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 – 5
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.
4
5
Idem.
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TITLE I
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
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.
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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
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
On the recommendation of the College of Bishops and the Executive Committee, the Provincial
Council may establish one or more Missionary Districts. 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. 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. Where the initiative is of
one or more dioceses, they shall provide episcopal oversight and financial support. Where the
initiative is of the Provincial Council, the College of Bishops may elect a Bishop for Special
Mission and the Province shall provide financial support. In establishing Missionary Districts
care shall be taken not to intrude or conflict with the ministries of existing dioceses,
congregations or other missions.
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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 - 6
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.
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TITLE II
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.
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 - 7
The Anglican Church in North America affirms our Lord’s teaching that the Sacrament of Holy
Matrimony 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
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TITLE II
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.
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 - 8
1. No Clergy knowingly, after due inquiry, shall solemnize any marriage if they have
unresolved concerns regarding any of the following impediments:
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TITLE II
(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.
Section 6 - 9
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 - 10
In all cases marriages shall be solemnized according to the forms contained in an authorized
Book of Common Prayer, or other rite authorized this Church and permitted by the Bishop.
Section 8 - 11
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.
9
10
Idem.
11
Idem.
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TITLE II
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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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 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 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 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 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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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
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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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.
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 I do solemnly engage to conform
to the Doctrine, Discipline and Worship of Christ as this Church has received
them.”
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.
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;
7. Ascetical Theology: with an emphasis on the prayer life and spirituality of the minister,
including the use of the Daily Office;
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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.
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 I do solemnly engage to conform to the
Doctrine, Discipline and Worship of Christ as this Church has received them.”
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
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
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.
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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 Transfer to Another Christian Denomination or Jurisdiction
Any Deacon or Presbyter of this Church in good standing may, at their own request, be released
from the obligations of the ministry of this Church to unite with any other Christian
denomination or jurisdiction by a commendatory letter, signed by the Bishop, and attested by one
other person having ecclesiastical standing within the Diocese or other Jurisdiction of which the
Deacon or Presbyter is a member. Upon the approval of the Standing Committee, the Bishop
may remove the Deacon or Presbyter from the roll of clergy of the diocese.
Section 4 - Concerning Voluntary Resignation from the Ordained Ministry of this Church 12
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
12
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TITLE III
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
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.
Canon 7
Of Rectors and Other Congregational Clergy 13
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
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;
13
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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. Such election is 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. The latter practice is commended to all Dioceses in this
Church.
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 shall require the affirmative vote of two-thirds of the membership of the
College of Bishops present and voting, which consent must be given within 60 days of
certification and in writing. 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.”
“And I do swear by Almighty God that I will pay true and canonical obedience in all things
lawful and honest to the Archbishop of this Church, and to 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
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qualified by these Canons may be elected as a Bishop for Special Mission by the College of
Bishops. The College of Bishops may certify two or three candidates, from whom one may be
elected by the affirmative vote of two-thirds of the College.
Section 7 - Concerning Incapacity of the Diocesan Bishop 14
a. When no less than half 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.
b. 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 medical doctors, psychologists or psychiatrists, who shall render their
opinion to the Standing Committee, the Bishop and his family.
c. If after considering the report of the doctors, psychologists or psychiatrists 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.
d. 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.
e. If the Bishop resigns, or takes medical leave under the provisions of this canon, the
Ecclesiastical Authority shall be the Bishop Coadjutor, if there be one, or the Standing
Committee.
f. While the Bishop is on medical leave, the Bishop Coadjutor, if there be one, or the Standing
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 seek the consent of the College of Bishops for the election of a new
Bishop pursuant to Canon III.8.4.1.
14
This section was added by the Provincial Council and ratified by the Assembly at its meeting on June 29, 2017. It
becomes effective on September 27, 2017.
25
TITLE IV
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 Bishops, Presbyters, or Deacons
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, or willful contravention of the Canons of this Church or of the constitution
or canons of the Diocese in which he holds office;
10. Habitual neglect of the duties of his 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.
A Godly Admonition is a written directive from a Bishop with jurisdiction to a member of the
Clergy under his jurisdiction. Such admonition shall not be issued until the Bishop shall have met
personally with the member of the Clergy – unless for valid reason the Bishop shall have delegated
such meeting to another Bishop – 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 the required action to be taken.
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TITLE IV
Canon 3
Of Presentments of Presbyters and Deacons
Section 1 - Concerning Accusations
An accusation of conduct believed by the accuser(s) to be in violation of Canon IV.2 may be
brought against a Presbyter or Deacon. 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. If the Bishop deems the accusation(s) not to be frivolous, he shall
cause an investigation to be made by a canonical investigator. 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
1. Each Diocese shall appoint a canonical investigator to ascertain the merit of the accusations
and make a recommendation to the diocesan authority as to whether further juridical process
should be pursued.
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 five 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.
The accused shall be entitled to notice of an ongoing investigation and to have the aid of counsel
or an agent and may submit his defense in writing. The presenters also may be aided by counsel,
and be represented by any agent they may appoint.
If it is determined by the diocesan authority that a trial should occur, then a presentment shall be
prepared and procedures followed according to the norms of ecclesiastical law.
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.
Each Diocese shall appoint an advisor to assist the Presbyter or Deacon who is the subject of an
accusation and his or her counsel or agent. The advisor shall be knowledgeable in canon law and
shall be available to advise the Presbyter or Deacon and his or her counsel or agent on issues
relating thereto. All such advice as shall be given shall be confidential to the accused and his or
her counsel or agent.
1. When, after investigation of an accusation, the diocesan authority has determined that the
matter should proceed forward, Articles of Presentment shall be prepared and personally
served upon the Presbyter or Deacon against whom the accusation has been made.
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TITLE IV
2. 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
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.
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 is ground 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 private; 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.
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TITLE IV
Canon 5
Of Courts, Membership and Procedures
Section 1 - Concerning Courts for the Trial of a Presbyter or 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 arising under these Canons.
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 a
vacancy on the Court or the recusal of a member of the Court. The term of each member of
the Court shall be three years or until a successor is elected and qualified.
3. The senior Bishop in date of consecration shall be the President 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.
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.
29
TITLE IV
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 determine
matters in dispute arising from the Constitution and Canons of the Province; (b) to hear and
decide disputes between Dioceses; and (c) 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 appointed by the
Provincial Council. At least two members shall be Bishops; the senior Bishop in date of
consecration shall 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.
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 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 and the right to representation by counsel, 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.
30
TITLE IV
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
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 Role of the Bishop in Sentencing
The Bishop alone has the authority to pronounce sentence on a Presbyter or Deacon convicted as
indicated in these canons. If there is no Bishop, the Archbishop or another Bishop designated by
the Archbishop shall pronounce sentence.
Section 2 - Concerning Pronouncement of Sentence
The College of Bishops, speaking through the Archbishop or his designate, has the sole
responsibility and authority to pronounce sentence on a Bishop.
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.
31
TITLE IV
Section 4 - Concerning Length of Sentences

Upon a showing of good cause:
1. A sentence of suspension of a Presbyter or 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 Inhibition of a Presbyter or Deacon
A Bishop may temporarily inhibit a Presbyter or Deacon from the exercise of ministry when the
Bishop believes, upon reasonable grounds, that the Presbyter or Deacon has engaged in conduct
upon which a Presbyter or Deacon in this Church may be presented. With the advice and consent
of the Standing Committee or its equivalent, such inhibition may be extended until such charge is
dropped or action taken by a Trial Court. Upon application by a Presbyter or a Deacon who has
been temporarily inhibited under this Canon and upon a showing of good cause, the Archbishop
or his designate may modify or revoke the temporary inhibition. Such decision shall be rendered
within thirty (30) days.
Section 2 - Concerning Inhibition of a Bishop
In the case of the presentment of a Bishop of this Church (including the Archbishop), three of the
five senior members of the College of Bishops by date of consecration (exclusive of any bishop
involved in the presentment or trial) may, by their affirmative vote, temporarily inhibit the
Bishop from the exercise of ministry. Such inhibition shall be in writing, signed by those
consenting to it.
Canon 10
Of Notification of Disciplinary Action Taken 15
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. Such notice shall
be limited to the sentence pronounced. 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 of and record the amendment or
termination in the permanent record.
15
32
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.
33
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
34
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.
35
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.
36
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.
37
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
38
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.
39
PROVINCE OF THE ANGLICAN CHURCH IN NORTH AMERICA (ACNA)
APPLICATION TO THE PROVINCIAL COUNCIL FOR RECOGNITION AS A
NEW DIOCESE/CLUSTER/NETWORK
OR
DIOCESE/CLUSTER/NETWORK “IN FORMATION”
APPLICANT INFORMATION
1. Recognition being sought -- Diocese/Cluster/Network or Diocese/Cluster/Network “In Formation”:
2. Existing or proposed name for the Diocese/Cluster/Network (an alternative name may also be proposed):
3. a. Existing bishop(s) :
b. Recommended nominee(s) for Bishop or for Vicar General (details on each nominee are attached):
4. Name/Phone/Email Address of Primary Contact if further information is needed:
PROVIDE THE FOLLOWING INFORMATION (AS APPLICABLE) ON PAGES ATTACHED TO THIS FORM
Founding dioceses should complete only #7 below
5. Describe in summary the history and mission of the group making application, including information regarding joint
mission efforts, fruits of those efforts, anticipated growth and other related information.
6. Provide basic information regarding the –
a. legal status of the group making application, including incorporation, 501(c)(3) status, insurance, etc.; and
b. current rules of governance of the group and their intentions to develop a Constitution and Canons.
7. With regard to the group making application and each of the Congregations in the group:
a. List the names and total number of congregations with an ASA (average Sunday attendance for all Sundays) of 50 or
above and their current Anglican affiliation.
b. List every other congregation, including its ASA, and its current Anglican affiliation.
c. Provide the collective ASA for the group.
8. If the group making application does not meet the requirements of Provisional Canon 1 for recognition as a
Diocese/Cluster/Network (twelve Congregations with ASA of at least 50 and collective ASA of 1000) but, requests that the
requirements be modified —please provide additional information to justify the modification.
9. With regard to each listed Congregation, verify that the Vestry of the Congregation –
a. has subscribed to the Constitution and Canons of the Anglican Church in North America; and
b. has notified their current domestic bishop of their intention to be part of the group making application.
10. Provide details of the current and proposed group budget, including support of the Bishop and his office.
11. Describe how the decision to make this application was made, including the involvement of each congregation.
12. Provide any other information you believe is relevant for consideration by the Provincial Council.
SIGNATURES OF THE GROUP’S GOVERNING COMMITTEE OR COUNCIL

We hereby make application for the requested recognition pursuant to the Constitution and Canons of the Anglican Church in
North America and verify that the information provided is true and accurate. We also acknowledge and commit ourselves to the
statement of Principles For The Applications Process contained in the Application Guidelines.
Printed name, title and signature: Date:
40

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THE ANGLICAN CHURCH IN NORTH AMERICA

CONSTITUTION AND CANONS

As ratified by the Inaugural Provincial Assembly, June 2009

Digitally signed by The

The Rev. Rev. Dr. Travis S. Boline

Dr. Travis Church in North America,

The Right Reverend Robert W. Duncan The Venerable Charlie Masters

The Rev. Travis S. Boline

Canon 1 - Of the Nature of Discipline in the Church ................................................page 26

Section 3 - Concerning Membership in the Church 4

Section 2 - Concerning Christian Formation

Section 2 - Concerning Requirements for Deacon According to Holy Scripture

3. Have a zeal for souls;

2. The Articles of Presentment shall be made in a writing signed by a representative of the

Section 4 - Concerning the Provincial Tribunal

Section 4 - Concerning Length of Sentences

The Right Reverend Robert W. Duncan The Venerable Charlie Masters

The Rev. Travis S. Boline

Principles for the Application Process for New Diocese/Network:

1. Recognition Sought. Canon I.5.1 specifies that a diocese or network is a grouping

4. Name/Phone/Email Address of Primary Contact if further information is needed:

SIGNATURES OF THE GROUP’S GOVERNING COMMITTEE OR COUNCIL

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