Episcopal Free Fellowship of America

a Tennessee Nonprofit Religious Corporation

Canons

As adopted by the Board of Directors of Episcopal Free Fellowship of America (previously known as “Anglican Free Fellowship of America”) (“EFFA” or “the Church”) on May 12, 2026, and ratified by its Executive Council on May 12, 2026.

PREAMBLE

(a) These Canons shall function as the Bylaws of the Church and replace all previously adopted bylaws and canons. For all purposes under state and federal law, the Archbishop Primus shall function as an Officer (President) of the Church, and the Executive Council shall function as its Board of Directors.

(b) The Church is a nonprofit religious corporation under Tennessee state law, organized and operated so as to qualify as a tax-exempt entity under section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code.

(c) These Canons provide a framework for the Church’s operation as a Christian denomination within the one holy catholic and apostolic church, modeled in the Anglican tradition.

(d) We believe that people of all genders are called to leadership in the church, including but not limited to the positions of Archbishop, bishop, priest, deacon, and lay positions of leadership. Masculine pronouns used herein are not meant to signify otherwise and should be read to include all genders.

CANON 1: LEADERSHIP AND GOVERNANCE

Section 1.01: General.

The leadership of the Church shall consist of the Archbishop Primus, bishops, the Executive Council, and the Advisory Council. As members of the Body of Christ, all clergy and lay persons in positions of leadership are called to work collaboratively to seek God’s will and serve God’s kingdom in the world.

Section 1.02: Archbishop Primus.

(a) The Archbishop Primus (referred to as “Archbishop”) is the executive, ecclesiastical, and spiritual leader of the Church. The Archbishop articulates the vision, mission, and purpose of the Church; presides over the Executive Council; oversees all bishops; and encourages unity, communication, and collaboration throughout the Church.

(b) The Archbishop serves for an initial term of ten years and may be re-elected for one additional term of ten years.

(c) To be elected Archbishop, a person must be at least 45 years of age, ordained a priest, and consecrated a bishop with valid apostolic succession. The Archbishop is subject to mandatory retirement from the position of Archbishop upon reaching the age of 75 (but may thereafter continue to serve the Church as a bishop).

(d) Upon the completion of an Archbishop’s term, or if an Archbishop leaves office due to death, resignation, retirement or removal, the next Archbishop is elected by a two-thirds majority vote of the Executive Council and a two-thirds majority vote of the Advisory Council. All members of the clergy can nominate candidates. If the Executive Council or the Advisory Council cannot reach a two-thirds majority after a third vote, then a simple majority will suffice on all votes going forward in both Councils.

(e) Should the Archbishop become incapacitated, fail to competently perform his duties, commit criminal behavior, violate his vows of ordination, or lose the confidence of the clergy, then he may be removed from office by a vote of all EFFA clergy. This process begins with an investigation by the Executive Council. If, following such investigation, a majority of the Executive Council believes that an all-clergy vote should be called, it will send a statement of its findings to the Chancellor, who will oversee the all-clergy vote. Clergy will be notified and will have two weeks to submit their votes to the Chancellor (by phone, in person or electronically). If two-thirds of the votes cast by clergy vote to remove the Archbishop, the removal will take effect immediately and the process to elect a new Archbishop Primus will begin.

(f) If the Archbishop is temporarily incapacitated or if the office of Archbishop is vacant, the Executive Council shall temporarily function as the ecclesiastical authority of the Church.

(g) The Archbishop, in his sole discretion, may create and appoint clergy to serve in positions that support the Archbishop in furthering the mission and ministry of the Church. Such positions include the Archbishop’s Canon to the Ordinary, a Director of Church Planting, a Director of Chaplaincy, a Director of Education, and other positions as the Archbishop may determine from time to time.

(h) The Archbishop may also create suffragan bishop positions, which will be filled in accordance with Section 3.03 of these Canons.

Section 1.03: Bishops.

(a) The bishops of EFFA consist of diocesan bishops (who oversee dioceses), abbot bishops (who oversee religious orders), and suffragan bishops (who are appointed for specific assignments or functions). The selection and consecration of bishops is addressed in Canon 3. The removal of bishops is addressed in Canon 7. Bishops other than the Archbishop are not subject to term-limits or mandatory retirement age.

(b) The role of all bishops is to shepherd and provide moral and spiritual support to the clergy, develop them in their ministry, and function as peacemakers and obstacle removers. Bishops ordain clergy, visit churches upon request, and celebrate Confirmations. All bishops are to lead by example in their words and actions.

(c) A diocesan bishop may designate a senior priest to hold the title of diocesan Canon to the Ordinary to assist in the performance of the bishop’s duties. Bishops may create other positions as needed to assist in the performance of their duties.

Section 1.04: Executive Council.

(a) The Executive Council is comprised of:

i. the Archbishop,

ii. each diocesan bishop who oversees a diocese of at least fifteen active, canonically resident clergy.

iii. the Archbishop’s Canon to the Ordinary,

iv. the Director of Church Planting, and

v. up to three other clergy may be appointed by the Archbishop.

The Executive Council shall have a minimum of five and no more than nine members at all times. Each member has one vote.

(b) The term of any diocesan bishop on the Executive Council shall continue until: (i) the termination of the bishop’s ministry with EFFA (due to death, incapacity, retirement, removal, or otherwise); (ii) such bishop’s resignation from the Executive Council; or (iii) removal of such bishop from the Executive Council pursuant to Section 1.04(c) of these Canons. The term of the Archbishop’s Canon to the Ordinary and the Director of Church Planting will continue for as long as they hold such positions or until they are removed pursuant to Section 1.04(c) of these Canons. The term of any other member of the Executive Council shall be at the Archbishop’s discretion, or until removed pursuant to Section 1.04(c) of these Canons. Executive Council members other than the Archbishop are not subject to term limits, or mandatory retirement age.

(c) Any member of the Executive Council (other than the Archbishop) may be removed from the Executive Council for Just Cause by either the Archbishop or by a majority vote of the remaining members of the Executive Council. “Just Cause” includes criminal behavior in/out of the church, disobedience, disruptive or negative behavior, actions that violate these Canons or one’s ordination vows, or failure to effectively perform duties including but not limited to gross negligence or incompetence; it does not include differences of opinion concerning theology, ministry, or church direction.

(d) The Executive Council advises the Archbishop on all affairs of the Church, and functions as EFFA’s Board of Directors pursuant to Tennessee Code § 48-58-101.

(e) The Executive Council shall meet no less than twice per year but can meet as frequently as needed. They shall keep a record of the minutes of their meetings.

(f) The first act of the Executive Council and Advisory Council if the office of Archbishop is vacant shall be to elect a new Archbishop, making best efforts to do so within 14 days.

Section 1.05: Advisory Council.

(a) The Advisory Council is comprised of: (i) one clergy representative (deacon or priest) from each EFFA diocese (“clergy representative”), and (ii) one lay representative from each parish led by EFFA clergy (“lay representative”). Clergy and lay representatives serve for a term of two years. Successive terms are permitted. Advisory Council members are not subject to term-limits or mandatory retirement age.

(b) Each diocese may determine its own process for selecting its clergy representative. If no process is specified, the diocesan bishop shall canvas the priests and deacons in the diocese to determine interest in serving on the Advisory Council. If more than one clergy person indicates interest, the diocesan bishop will select a clergy representative for the diocese by random drawing from the names of the interested clergy. A member of the Executive Council may not simultaneously serve as a member of the Advisory Council.

(c) Each parish led by an EFFA priest may determine its own process for selecting its lay representative. If no process is specified, the EFFA priest who leads the parish will select a lay representative. The lay representative must be a congregant of the parish in good standing.

(d) Any clergy representative or lay representative member of the Advisory Council may be removed from the Advisory Council for Just Cause by a majority vote of the Executive Council.

(e) The Advisory Council shall elect one of its members to serve as Chairperson of the Advisory Council, who shall serve for a term of two years. The Chairperson may serve successive terms.

(f) The Advisory Council’s role is to provide diocesan and parish level feedback from the clergy and laity, as well as making recommendations to the Executive Council for all levels of the EFFA. Recommendations shall be considered and voted upon at the next regularly scheduled Executive Council meeting.

(g) The Advisory Council also votes on the election of a new Archbishop Primus and on other matters as specified in these Canons.

(h) The Advisory Council shall meet a minimum of two times per year. They shall keep a record of the minutes of their meetings.

Section 1.06: Officers.

(a) Officer Positions: The Officers of EFFA shall be Archbishop (President), Secretary, and Treasurer. Additional Officer positions may be created and filled by the Archbishop, with advice from the Executive Council.

(b) Office of Archbishop Primus (President): see Section 1.02.

i. The Archbishop shall appoint the secretary, Treasurer, and other officers.

ii. Officers other than Archbishop (President) are appointed for a 5-year term and may be reappointed for successive terms. Officers other than Archbishop (President) are not subject to term-limits or mandatory retirement age.

iii. Officers other than Archbishop (President) may be removed for Just Cause by either the Archbishop or by a majority vote of the Executive Council.

iv. An Officer may resign at any time by giving written notice to the Archbishop, and such resignation will take effect at the time specified in the notice.

v. The Secretary shall function as clerk and record keeper of the minutes of all meetings and proceedings; maintain the official roster of clergy, parishes, and ministries of EFFA; and in general, perform the duties usually incidental to the office of Secretary.

vi. The Treasurer shall oversee the keeping of full and accurate accounts of the Church’s receipts and disbursements and the deposit of monies and other valuable effects in banking and investment accounts in the name of the Church. The Treasurer shall oversee the disbursement of the funds of the organization, and in general perform the duties usually incidental to the office of Treasurer.

vii. The Archbishop may appoint officers to serve on the Executive Council but may not serve on the Advisory Council.

Section 1.07: Chancellor.

(a) The Archbishop may appoint an EFFA clergy or lay person with legal training or who is otherwise qualified to serve as Chancellor, which appointment must be ratified by the Executive Council. Serving as Chancellor is an advisory role and does not create an attorney-client relationship.

(b) The Chancellor will serve a term of three years. Successive terms are permitted.

(c) If the position of Chancellor is vacant, duties assigned to the Chancellor in these Canons will be performed by the Executive Council.

CANON 2: MEETINGS AND COMMUNICATION

Section 2.01: Procedures for Meetings.

(a) Rules of Order. Except as otherwise provided in these Canons, official meetings and proceedings of EFFA shall follow Robert’s Rules of Order Newly Revised (12th edition), with such modifications as may be approved by the Chancellor.

(b) Notice of Meetings. Notice of regular or special meetings of the Executive Council or Advisory Council must be received by each member (by mail, e-mail, or telephone) at least seven calendar days before the meeting. This requirement may be waived by Council members in writing before or after the meeting; attendance at a meeting is a deemed waiver of notice.

(c) Meeting by Electronic Means. Meetings may be held in person, by telephone conference call, video conference call, or any combination thereof, and all persons contemporaneously participating shall be considered present.

(d) Minutes. At each meeting of the Executive Council or Advisory Council, one person shall be chosen to keep the minutes of the meeting, who shall promptly submit the minutes to the Secretary following the meeting.

(e) Quorum. At a meeting of the Executive Council or Advisory Council, a quorum exists if three-fourths of the members immediately before the meeting begins are present.

(f) Voting. At a meeting of the Executive Council or Advisory Council at which a quorum is present, action may be taken by an affirmative vote of those present and voting at the meeting. For example, if an action calls for approval or ratification by “a two-thirds majority vote of the Executive Council,” an affirmative vote by two- thirds of the Executive Council members present and voting at the meeting will suffice. If no percentage is specified to approve or ratify an action, the affirmative vote of a simple majority of the members present and voting at the meeting will suffice. The Archbishop has an equal vote as a member of the Executive Council; provided, however, that the Archbishop will abstain from any vote to approve or ratify an action initiated or taken by the Archbishop.

(g) Action by Written Consent. Action may be taken by the Executive Council or Advisory Council without a meeting if unanimous written consent is received from all members (which may be by mail, fax, email, or electronic signature).

(h) Voting by Proxy. Voting by proxy shall not be allowed unless approved in advance by the Chancellor.

(i) Emergency Powers. In the event of an emergency of a type described in Tennessee Code § 48-51-201(19), a meeting of the Executive Council may be called by the Archbishop, any Officer, or any member of the Executive Council. Notice of such meeting may be given at such time and by such means as circumstances permit, as reasonably determined by the person calling the meeting, and those in attendance at the meeting shall constitute a quorum for purposes of any business that cannot be reasonably delayed until after emergency conditions have passed. These Canons may be amended, in whole or in part, by a majority vote of the Executive Committee members attending a meeting so called, provided such amendment shall only be effective for the duration of the emergency.

Section 2.02: Synods.

(a) Synods will be held no less than every five years but may be held more frequently at the discretion of the Archbishop. All EFFA clergy may attend Synods.

(b) Each diocese is welcome to hold its own separate events.

Section 2.03: Clergy Meetings and Oversight.

(a) The Archbishop (or a designee) will hold quarterly clergy meetings to discuss topics of importance, receive feedback and suggestions, and keep everyone informed. It is highly recommended that all clergy attend.

(b) All EFFA clergy are subject to the episcopal oversight of an EFFA bishop or Archbishop. Clergy are expected to maintain regular contact with their bishop.

Section 2.04: Communication: Internal and External

(a) The Archbishop may, in his discretion, appoint one or more Deans to facilitate communication between EFFA leadership and clergy, including the dissemination of information from leadership, and for the collection of data and feedback from clergy and ministries.

(b) External communication such as official statements, can only be released by the Archbishop or other bishops after review by the Executive Council.

CANON 3: ORDINATIONS AND INCARDINATION

Section 3.01: Three Degrees of Ordained Ministry.

(a) Ordained Ministries. The ordained ministry of EFFA is conferred and exercised in three degrees: the diaconate (deacons), the presbyterate (priests), and the episcopate (bishops).

(b) Deacons: The ministry of a deacon is to represent Christ and his church, particularly as servant to those in need. Deacons assist bishops and priests in the proclamation of the Gospel and may perform the Sacraments of Baptism and Holy Matrimony. The duties of a deacon will be determined by the local priest under whom they serve. Deacons may also perform anointing of the sick.

(c) Priests: The ministry of a priest is to represent Christ and his church, particularly as a pastor to the people in local parishes, chaplaincies, and other ministries. Priests may perform the duties of deacon as well as the Sacraments of Reconciliation, Holy Eucharist and Anointing of the Sick. The duties of a priest will be determined by the diocesan bishop under whom they serve.

(d) Bishops: The ministry of a bishop is to represent Christ and his church, as overseer/shepherd of a diocese (diocesan bishop), leader of a religious order (abbot bishop), or in the service of special functions identified by the Archbishop (suffragan bishop). Bishops may perform the duties of deacon and priest, as well as the Sacraments of Confirmation and Holy Orders. Bishops shall serve as servant leaders, developing and supporting EFFA clergy in their ministries and functioning as counselor, encourager, and mentor.

(e) Nondiscrimination: No person shall be denied access to ordination, consecration, or incardination on the basis of race, ethnicity, gender, sexual orientation, marital or family status, disability, or age (except as provided by these Canons). No right to ordination, consecration or incardination is hereby established.

(f) Special Appointments: In a new diocese that is without a bishop or in an existing diocese where the bishop’s post is vacant, the Archbishop may appoint a priest to act with a bishop’s authority temporarily with the title of Archdeacon, with the exclusion of performing ordinations.

(g) Clergy Transfers: Any deacon, priest or bishop of the Church who is in good standing may, at their own request, be given a commendatory letter signed by the Archbishop and released from the EFFA in order to be received into the ministry of another Christian denomination.

(h) Commission on Ministry: The Executive Council, in its discretion, may direct the formation of a Commission on Ministry to develop standardized requirements and processes for the identification, qualification, education, ordination or incardination, and ongoing formation of candidates for ordained ministry. Members of the Commission on Ministry, if formed, shall include at least one bishop, one priest and one deacon.

Section 3.02: Ordination of Deacons and Priests.

(a) Ordination to the diaconate and priesthood are at each diocesan bishops’ discretion. (Ordinations to the diaconate or priesthood may be performed by bishops other than a diocesan bishop with the approval of the Archbishop or the relevant diocesan bishop.) Diocesan bishops are to assess whether a candidate’s calling is sincere, that they have no criminal background or serious mental health conditions, and that they receive appropriate education, formation, and mentorship. Exceptions to these requirements must be approved by the Archbishop.

(b) Candidates for the diaconate or priesthood must go through a discernment process consisting of a written application, three interviews, a background investigation and psychological evaluation at the candidate’s expense, documentation of their education, and recommendations (written or verbal).

(c) Candidates for the diaconate must be 22 years or older and must demonstrate maturity and responsibility to serve in this capacity.

(d) Candidates for priesthood must be 25 years or older and must demonstrate maturity and responsibility to serve in this capacity. A person may be ordained a transitional deacon while preparing to become a priest.

Section 3.03: Consecration of Bishops.

(a) The selection of candidates for consecration as bishop are at the Archbishop’s discretion, in consultation with his fellow bishops and with feedback from all clergy. The consecration of bishops must be ratified by a majority vote of the Executive Council.

(b) Candidates for bishop must be age 40 or older, must demonstrate dedication to servant leadership in the Church with proven fruits of ministry, must be ordained a priest for at least 5 years, and have valid apostolic succession.

(c) A minimum of two (and preferably three or more) bishops with valid apostolic succession must be present and participate in the consecration of a bishop. No consecration may occur without the approval of the Archbishop.

Section 3.04: Incardination of Clergy from other Christian Denominations.

(a) The incardination of deacons and priests ordained by other Christian denominations is at the discretion of the diocesan bishop. Candidates for incardination must have valid apostolic succession, must provide documentation of their prior ordination(s), and must satisfy the requirements for ordination set forth in Section 3.02 of these Canons. Exceptions to these requirements must be approved by the Archbishop.

(b) The incardination of a bishop is at the Archbishop’s discretion, provided that the incardination must be ratified by a majority vote of the Executive Council. Bishop candidates for incardination must have valid apostolic succession and otherwise satisfy the requirements set forth in Section 3.03 of these Canons and shall go through a process consisting of no less than three interviews, a background investigation, a psychological evaluation at the candidate’s expense, a written application, and documentation of their education and prior ordinations.

CANON 4: DOCTRINE, WORSHIP AND SACRAMENTS

Section 4.01: Doctrine.

The doctrines of the Church are set forth in the “Statement of Beliefs” in Exhibit A to the EFFA’s Amended and Restated Articles of Incorporation.

Section 4.02: Worship.

(a) As a denomination in the Anglican tradition, the Book of Common Prayer provides the form and substance for liturgy in the Church. Any Book of Common Prayer is acceptable in personal use. EFFA synods and public services will use the 1979 Book of Common Prayer. Individual parishes and ministries may decide which Book of Common Prayer to use.

(b) The Calendar of the Christian Year is that in the 1979 Book of Common Prayer.Clergy may use the Revised Common Lectionary.

(c) Any translation of the Bible is acceptable for personal use. All Provincial events will utilize the New Revised Standard Version Updated Edition. Churches may use alternate Bibles, subject to Bishop’s approval.

(d) Individual parishes and ministries may choose to have low, broad, or high church services. In general, vestments for a “low church” service would be a clergy shirt and stole; “broad church” vestments would be a clergy shirt, alb and stole; and “high church” vestments would be a clergy shirt, alb, stole and chasuble.

Section 4.03: Administration of Holy Sacraments.

(a) The Dominical Sacraments – Baptism and Holy Eucharist – as commanded by Christ are the bare minimum for Christian practice. The form, matter and intent are all necessary elements that must be present for the Sacrament to be valid. Baptism may be conferred by immersion, pouring or sprinkling of water.

(b) There are five other covenantal rites mentioned in Holy Scripture and practiced by the Apostles that historically have been termed Sacraments or sacramental rites: Confirmation, Anointing of the Sick, Reconciliation, Holy Matrimony, and Holy Orders.

(c) Consistent with Anglican tradition, EFFA holds the seal of confession in the Sacrament of Reconciliation to be inviolable.

Section 4.04: Concerning the Holy Eucharist.

(a) Presiding at the Celebration of the Holy Eucharist is reserved to bishops and priests.

(b) No one shall receive the Sacrament of Holy Eucharist except they be baptized, with water, in the Name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit. It is the duty of all who have been baptized to receive the Holy Eucharist regularly, and especially at the festivals of Christmas, Easter, and Pentecost.

(d) Members in good standing of other branches of Christ’s church who have been baptized are welcomed to receive the Sacrament of Holy Communion.

(e) Eucharistic services led by EFFA clergy should generally include these elements: (i) two parts to the service, the Ministry of the Word and the Holy Communion; (ii) the liturgical reading of the Gospel; (iii) the exchange of the Peace; (iv) the elements of the Eucharistic Prayer; (v) The unfailing use of bread and wine as ordained by Christ. Grape Juice may be added for use in appropriate contexts, or in instances where wine is not allowed.

Section 4.05: Ministerial Freedom.

(a) EFFA respects differences in theological beliefs among the clergy. EFFA believes a “via media” approach allows for disagreement on non-essential matters without breaking the collective bonds of affection. The acceptance of the Apostles and Nicene Creeds are considered sufficient to be in agreement.

(b) The Church does not expect any clergy member to do anything that violates their conscience, but the Church does expect all clergy to honor and respect one other regardless of their differences and to work together in a collegial and civil manner.

(c) EFFA gives its clergy freedom to practice ministry as one pleases so long as no harm is done to others or to the church, and one is not engaging in illegal, immoral, or unethical behavior. Criminal activity by clergy will be immediately reported to law enforcement. Problematic behavior that does not rise to the level of criminality will be dealt with under Canon 7.

(d) The structure of the Church is meant to facilitate ministerial freedom with bishops acting as servant leaders rather than as traditional “overseers.” Priests and deacons are expected to follow the direction of their bishops so long as they are not being asked to do anything immoral, unethical, illegal, or in violation of their conscience.

(e) Clergy are free to express their individual opinions on matters of social justice, faith, morality, and ethics. but should clarify that they are speaking in a personal capacity and not as a representative of the EFFA. Clergy can also work for the promotion of social justice and participate in protests and other related activities.

CANON 5: MINISTRIES AND AFFILIATIONS

Section 5.01: Structure of Ministries.

(a) The Archbishop shall organize the ministry of the Church into dioceses, missions, religious orders, and other ministries as necessary to effectively execute the vision and mission of the Church.

(b) Any diocese wishing to incorporate as a separate legal entity under state law (for purposes of governance, property ownership, or otherwise) must obtain prior approval from the Archbishop.

(c) Parishes and ministries led by EFFA clergy shall be organized and operated autonomously, with their own separate governance and property and in compliance with all applicable laws.

(d) If a parish or ministry wishes to formally affiliate with EFFA, it may do so by making the request in writing. Once the diocesan bishop has had discussions with the ministry to make sure it is a good fit, there will be a meeting of the Executive Council to review and approve the membership request. After the parish or ministry approves the affiliation on their end, membership will become effective immediately.

(e) A parish or ministry may terminate its affiliation with EFFA by giving a 30-day written notice. During that time there will be discernment process with weekly meetings to address any concerns before finalizing disaffiliation. The parish or ministry shall retain its separate assets and liabilities.

Section 5.02: Affiliation and Intercommunion Agreements.

(a) EFFA may enter into affiliation or intercommunion agreements with other Christian bodies when such alignment is consistent with, and beneficial to, the theological beliefs and the mission and ministry of EFFA, and when entering into such agreements does not jeopardize the Church’s tax-exempt status. Entering into or terminating such agreements requires a majority vote of the Executive Council.

(b) Arrangements that constitute a combination of legal entities (by merger or by the acquisition of EFFA by another legal entity) or full communion (characterized by full integration of ministry and reciprocity of Holy Orders) require a three-fourths vote of the Executive Council.

CANON 6: SAFE CHURCH

Section 6.01: Safe Church Requirements.

(a) All clergy must complete comprehensive Safe Church training for the protection of children and vulnerable adults and provide a criminal background check no less than every three years.

(b) Laity working in an official capacity must also be Safe Church certified.

(c) All persons are morally and ethically bound, and in most states required by law, to report suspected cases of abuse and/or neglect of children or vulnerable adults to the appropriate authorities.

(d) Priests must confer with, and follow the direction of, their bishop regarding the disclosure of information obtained under the seal of the Sacrament of Reconciliation (Confession). In instances where there is a threat of bodily injury or loss of life, it is permissible to release information to law enforcement.

Section 6.02: Safe Church Oversight.

(a) The Archbishop shall appoint a member of the clergy to oversee the Safe Church program. The Safe Church overseer is responsible for keeping records of training, background checks and any complaints or concerns received, and will immediately report suspected misconduct to the Executive Council.

(b) Diocesan bishops are responsible for compliance with the Safe Church training and reporting requirements within their diocese and shall communicate any potential violations that come to their attention to the EFFA Safe Church overseer.

Section 6.03: Accusations Against Clergy.

(a) If any member of the clergy is accused of sexual misconduct with any person (child or adult, whether or not in a ministry context), he or she will be immediately suspended from ministry or placed on sabbatical and reported to law enforcement. If the accused person is brought to criminal trial and convicted, they will be deposed from ordained ministry. If there is no criminal trial or if a criminal trial does not result in conviction, the accused person may still be subject to ecclesiastical disciple under Canon 7.

(b) Diocesan bishops are responsible for arranging pastoral care for those affected by the misconduct or inappropriate behavior of clergy or laity acting in a Church-related role.

CANON 7: DISCIPLINE OF CLERGY

Section 7.01: Accountability.

(a) By virtue of Baptism, all Christians are called to holiness of life and accountability to one another. The Church seeks to support its people in their life together through pastoral response that promotes healing, reconciliation, and amendment of life.

(b) In the case of known or suspected misbehavior or incompetence by a member of the clergy that cannot be resolved through pastoral counsel and/or godly admonition by the Archbishop (in the case of a bishop) or diocesan bishop (in the case of deacons or priests), the provisions of this Canon 7 regarding clergy discipline will apply.

Section 7.02: Discipline of Bishops.

(a) The Archbishop (or their designee) will, in consultation with the Chancellor, conduct an impartial and confidential investigation of all credible allegations of misbehavior or incompetence by a bishop.

(b) If the Archbishop determines that there is Just Cause against the bishop, the Archbishop may impose discipline which may include (but is not limited to) censure, suspension from ministry (as a bishop or all ordained ministry) for a stated period, permanent suspension from ministry (as a bishop or all ordained ministry), or deposition from ordained ministry.

(c) If the accused bishop does not voluntarily submit to the Archbishop’s determination and discipline, the bishop will have 30 days to petition the Executive Council for an ecclesiastical trial. If no timely petition is made, the discipline will become final.

Section 7.03: Discipline of Priests and Deacons.

(a) The diocesan bishop (or their designee) will, in consultation with the Chancellor, conduct an impartial and confidential investigation of all credible allegations of misbehavior or incompetence by a priest or deacon canonically resident in their diocese.

(b) If the diocesan bishop determines that there is Just Cause against the priest or deacon, the diocesan bishop may impose discipline which may include (but is not limited to) censure, suspension from ministry for a stated period, permanent suspension from ministry, or deposition from ordained ministry.

(c) If the accused priest or deacon does not voluntarily submit to the diocesan bishop’s determination and discipline, the priest or deacon will have 30 days to petition the Archbishop for reconsideration. If no timely petition is made, the discipline will become final.

(d) If the accused priest or deacon is not satisfied with outcome of the Archbishop’s reconsideration, the priest or deacon will have 30 days to petition the Executive Council for an ecclesiastical trial. If no timely petition is made, the discipline will become final.

Section 7.04: Ecclesiastical Trials.

(a) In the case of any ecclesiastical trial under Section 7.02(c) or Section 7.03(d) of these Canons, the Chancellor will adjudicate questions of process and procedure in accordance with general principles of ecclesiastical law.

(b) An ecclesiastical court shall consist of those members of the Executive Council who are not conflicted in the matter (as determined by the Chancellor). If multiple members of the Executive Council are conflicted, the Chancellor may request that the Chairperson of the Advisory Council designate persons from the Advisory Council to serve on the ecclesiastical court.

(c) The judgement of the ecclesiastical court, which shall be determined by majority vote, shall be final. In the case of a tie, the Chancellor will cast the deciding vote.

CANON 8: FINANCES & TRANSACTIONS

Section 8.01: EFFA Finances.

(a) The fiscal year of EFFA ends on December 31.

(b) The Officers of EFFA will prepare a yearly budget for the Church and submit it to the Executive Council for review. Such budget will include provision for ordinary operating expenses and may include a discretionary fund to be spent by the Archbishop as he pleases to support the mission and ministry of the Church.

(d) EFFA may accept contributions, gifts and bequests that are for general purposes. Acceptance of contributions, gifts or bequests that are for a limited purpose, or of real property, will require approval by majority vote of the Executive Council.

Section 8.02: Finances of Dioceses, Parishes, and Ministries.

(a) Each parish and ministry associated with the Church has sole discretion over its own finances and property, including the amount of financial support it provides to EFFA.

(b) As a general rule, parishes and ministries are responsible for obtaining their own recognition of tax-exempt status from the Internal Revenue Service. Parishes or ministries wishing to rely on EFFA’s tax-exempt status must first confer with, and follow the guidance of, the Archbishop and Chancellor.

(c) Any Diocese that is organized as a separate legal entity in accordance with Section 5.01(b) of these Canons will have sole discretion over its own finances and property and will be subject to Section 8.02(b) of these Canons regarding tax-exempt status.

(d) Clergy are responsible for their own financial support through their individual ministry or secular work.

Section 8.03: Loans.

(a) EFFA shall not make loans to any person or entity, related or unrelated.

(b) EFFA will not borrow money from any person or entity. If the needs of the Church should require borrowing in the future, these Canons will be amended.

Section 8.04: Contracts.

(a) Officers are authorized to enter into contracts on behalf of EFFA, provided that any contract in excess of $500.00 will require the advance approval of the Executive Council.

(b) EFFA will not take title to real property (whether by purchase or by way of contribution, gift, or bequest). If the needs of the Church should require taking title to real property in the future, these Canons will be amended.

Section 8.05: Prohibited Acts.

No Officer, member of the Executive Council or Advisory Council, or clergy of EFFA may do, or agree to do, any of the following:

(a) Perform any act that violates these Canons or the Articles of Incorporation of EFFA.

(b) Perform (or fail to perform) any act in violation of a binding obligation of EFFA.

(d) Perform (or fail to perform) any act that could jeopardize the tax-exempt status of EFFA.

(e) Perform any act that would make it impossible or unnecessarily difficult to continue the mission, ministry, and ordinary activities of the Church.

(f) Receive improper personal benefit from the operation of the Church.

(g) Use the assets of EFFA, directly or indirectly, for any purpose other than carrying on the mission, ministry, and ordinary activities of the Church.

(h) Wrongfully transfer or dispose of assets of the Church, including intangible property such as goodwill.

(i) Use the name of the Episcopal Free Fellowship of America or any trademark or trade name adopted by the Church, except on its behalf in the conduct of the mission, ministry, and ordinary activities of the Church.

(j) Disclose any EFFA information not known to the public to any person not authorized to receive it.

CANON 9: BOOKS & RECORDS

Section 9.01: Required Books and Records.

The Officers of EFFA are responsible for keeping correct and complete books and records that include the following:

(a) Copies of all documents filed with the Secretary of State, including past and present Articles of Incorporation and any amendments to the same.

(b) Copies of all past and present Canons and Bylaws, and any amendments to the same.

(d) A list of the names and addresses of the Officers and all Executive Council and Advisory Council members.

(e) Complete records of all revenue and expenditures of EFFA.

(f) Balance sheets for the three most recent fiscal years. *

(g) Income statements for the three most recent fiscal years. *

(h) All rulings, letters, and other documents relating to the organization’s tax-exempt status.

(i) A list of all EFFA clergy.

*Audited financial statements (balance sheets and income statements) shall not be required unless requested by the Executive Council.

CANON 10: MISCELLANEOUS

Section 10.01: Legal Authorities.

These Canons shall be construed in accordance with the laws of the state of Tennessee (including the laws applicable to the bylaws of nonprofit corporations). All references herein to statutes, regulations, or other legal authorities shall refer to the cited authority and successor provisions, as the same may be amended from time to time.

Section 10.02: Legal Construction.

If any portion of these Canons is held to be invalid, illegal, or unenforceable in any respect, such invalidity, illegality, or unenforceability will not affect any other provisions herein, which are to be construed as if the invalid, illegal, or unenforceable portion had not been included in the Canons.

Section 10.03: Dispute Resolution.

Any controversy, claim, or dispute arising from or related to these Canons shall be settled by mediation and, if mediation is unsuccessful, by legally binding Christian arbitration. Judgement upon an arbitration decision may be entered in any court otherwise having jurisdiction.

CANON 11: AMENDMENTS

Section 11.01: Amendments to Canons.

These Canons may be amended or repealed, and new Canons may be adopted, after (a) disclosure of the proposed changes to the Advisory Council, followed no sooner than one week later by (b) an affirmative vote of three-fourths of the Executive Council.

Section 11.02: Amendments to Statement of Beliefs.

EFFA’s “Statement of Beliefs” – attached to EFFA’s Amended and Restated Articles of Incorporation as Exhibit A – may be amended after (a) disclosure of the proposed changes to all EFFA clergy, followed no sooner than one week later by (b) an affirmative vote of three-fourths of the Executive Council and (c) an affirmative vote of three-fourths of the Advisory Council.

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Episcopal Free Fellowship of America

a Tennessee Nonprofit Religious Corporation

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