Police are investigating an Episcopal Church women’s ministry group in Ohio over alleged “financial irregularities,” according to a recent public letter from a bishop.
The Rt. Rev. Anne B. Jolly, bishop of the Episcopal Diocese of Ohio, confirmed in a letter shared by Anglican Ink last week that the Cleveland Police Department is investigating the diocese’s Episcopal Church Women chapter.
“I am writing to inform you of a situation involving financial irregularities within the accounts of the Episcopal Church Women,” wrote Jolly. “Significant discrepancies have been identified, and it has been determined that funds were misappropriated.”
“Upon learning of these concerns, we worked with ECW leadership to take immediate steps to secure the accounts and begin a thorough review. This work is being carried out in consultation with the diocesan chancellor and other appropriate advisers, and we will continue to pursue a full accounting of the situation.”
Jolly said that the matter “involves an individual” whom she didn’t identify, adding that privacy must be respected until the investigative process plays out. The bishop said there is “no indication that diocesan operating accounts are affected.”
“We recognize that this news may be concerning,” she continued. “Please know that we are addressing this matter with diligence, integrity, accountability, and care, and with the oversight appropriate to our common life.”
According to its website, Episcopal Church Women (ECW) of the Episcopal Diocese of Ohio seeks to “nurture an inclusive community of women that embodies Christ’s transformative message through authentic relationships, intergenerational mentoring, and dedicated advocacy for justice and care.”
ECW also expressed its desire for a “world transformed by a vibrant, faith-rooted community that grows together, shares wisdom, and cares for the world around us.”
The women’s ministry group is scheduled to host its 148th ECW Retreat and Annual Meeting at Bellwether Farm in August.
This is not the first time in recent months that one of the regional body’s entities has become the center of a criminal investigation.
Brett Boardwine, 31, who worked in communications for Trinity Episcopal Cathedral in Cleveland, was arrested last August for allegedly soliciting a minor for sexual activity.
Boardwine, who was also a staff member at a local school district, was put on administrative leave, according to a statement from the Very Rev. Bernard J. Owens, dean of Trinity Episcopal Cathedral.
“Our highest priority is the safety of those in our care,” Owens stated last year. “While we currently have no reason to think anyone in the Trinity Cathedral community has been harmed, I have placed Brett on immediate administrative leave.”
