Anglican Ink published a parish email from former Archbishop Beach and Roy Acord announcing the resignation of Dean Michael Guernsey of Holy Cross Anglican Church in Loganville, Georgia. Holy Cross is the home parish for both Archbishop Beach and Bishop Frank Lyons. Dean Guernsey is the son of prominent first-generation ACNA Bishop John Guernsey.
The email uses pastoral language to describe an outcome that was clearly the result of a disciplinary or investigative process.
Obfuscated Phrase: “concerns… were brought to the attention of Diocesan Leadership and the Cathedral Chapter regarding various aspects of parish leadership, communication, and Fr. Michael’s overall health and wellbeing.”
Fact: Multiple parties (staff, parishioners, and former parishioners) formally lodged complaints against Dean Guernsey related to his management style and personal conduct/condition.
Obfuscated Phrase: “he was placed on a leave of absence… to allow time for both the ACNA’s normal process to examine the concerns raised and for a period of prayerful evaluation, conversation, and discernment.”
Fact: The Diocese initiated a mandatory investigation/review into the complaints under the ACNA’s disciplinary canons (often referred to as Title IV proceedings, which cover misconduct or violations of ordination vows). Being placed on a leave of absence is a typical first step in such a formal review.
Obfuscated Phrase: “he believes it is best for both his family and the Cathedral to bring his ministry to a close and to allow all involved to move forward.”
Fact: Dean Guernsey resigned before the conclusion of the formal review/discernment process. While he may have provided a personal reason, this is often a mechanism to conclude an ecclesiastical investigation. The resignation was the final result of the “concerns” and the ensuing “leave of absence.”
Timeline:
- Prior to August 26: Concerns were raised.
- August 26: Dean Guernsey was placed on a leave of absence.
- December 2, 2025 (Date of Email): Resignation is formally announced.
- December 14, 2025: A Farewell Reception is scheduled.
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