Ecclesiastical Discipline
Explore the guidelines and process of Title IV Canons for Ecclesiastical Discipline, providing an overview of the Episcopal Church’s framework for addressing misconduct and promoting accountability among clergy members.
Title IV Canons for Ecclesiastical Discipline
“By virtue of Baptism, all members of the Church are called to holiness of life and accountability to one another. The Church and each Diocese shall support their members in their life in Christ and seek to resolve conflicts by promoting healing, repentance, forgiveness, restitution, justice, amendment of life, and reconciliation among all involved or affected. This Title applies to Members of the Clergy, who have by their vows at ordination accepted additional responsibilities and accountabilities for doctrine, discipline, worship and obedience.”
It is a church-wide structure to address claims that Bishops, Priests, or Deacons may have engaged in conduct constituting an offense under the Canons.
It encourages accountability, justice, reconciliation, restoration, and pastoral responses.
To make a complaint or report an offense, please call the Office of the Bishop, 757-213-3381. Any report of material and substantial misconduct will be assigned to an Intake Officer.