By Ven. David Chimezie Nwanekpe
Chaplain, Council of Knights, CONNAM
Setting the Record Straight
In recent times, misunderstandings have arisen concerning the relationship between the Church of Nigeria (Anglican Communion) and the Anglican Church in North America (ACNA). Let us be clear:
We are not at war with ACNA.
The Church of Nigeria North American Mission (CONNAM) and ACNA are partners in mission, sister churches, united by the same Gospel, the same Christ, and the same commitment to evangelism, discipleship, and biblical orthodoxy.
While administrative disagreements may arise—as is common in any large organization—these do not define our relationship and must not distort our shared mission.
A Brief History: The Birth of ACNA
ACNA was born in response to a crisis of faith within the Episcopal Church in the U.S. and the Anglican Church of Canada. Around the early 2000s, both churches adopted theological and moral stances that contradicted centuries of biblical teaching—particularly regarding:
- The consecration of openly gay clergy
- The redefinition of marriage
In defense of biblical authority and historic Anglicanism, faithful believers sought spiritual oversight from orthodox Anglican provinces, including Nigeria. This led to the formation of ACNA in 2009, under Archbishop Robert Duncan, supported by churches from Nigeria, Uganda, Kenya, and Rwanda.
The Church of Nigeria played a foundational role in ACNA’s formation and survival.
This is a legacy we must honor—not forget.
A Brief History of CONNAM
As Nigerian Anglicans migrated to North America, there was a growing need for worship rooted in the evangelical and Spirit-filled tradition of the Church of Nigeria. In 2005, under the leadership of then-Primate Most Rev. Peter Akinola:
- The Church of Nigeria established CONNAM as its missionary arm in North America
- Missionary bishops were consecrated
- A growing network of vibrant, doctrinally sound churches was formed
While ACNA is a province and CONNAM a mission extension, both share a common origin in the struggle for orthodoxy. This common struggle forged a natural and spiritual alliance.
ACNA is Not a “Gay Church”
Recent misinformation has painted ACNA as having compromised on human sexuality. This is false and misleading.
ACNA is not a gay church.
The church has consistently and publicly:
- Affirmed marriage as between one man and one woman
- Opposed same-sex blessings or ordinations
- Defended the biblical and historic Anglican view of sexuality
To imply otherwise is unjust. ACNA has stood firm in the face of immense cultural pressure to remain faithful to the Gospel.
A Shared Mission and Common Faith
Both the Church of Nigeria and ACNA are committed to the Global Anglican Realignment—a return to biblical faith, spiritual renewal, and mission.
We are united by:
- The authority of Holy Scripture
- The Lordship of Jesus Christ
- The Great Commission
- The historic formularies of the Anglican faith:
- Thirty-Nine Articles
- Book of Common Prayer
- The Ordinal
We must build trust on our shared confession of faith, not suspicion.
Addressing Administrative Tensions
Indeed, administrative and jurisdictional issues exist, particularly within CONNAM’s mission structure. These tensions are being addressed appropriately and do not signal a theological split.
Let us not confuse governance differences with doctrinal division.
A Call to Peace and Partnership
As members of the Body of Christ, let us remember:
ACNA is our sister church, not our rival.
We may have different operational models, but we are united in:
- One Lord
- One Faith
- One Baptism
Let us:
- Avoid divisive rhetoric
- Celebrate our shared history
- Focus on soul-winning and kingdom advancement
- Pray for healing, deeper fellowship, and stronger collaboration
United for the Sake of the Gospel
Jesus prayed in John 17:21,
“That they all may be one… so that the world may believe that you have sent me.”
Let the world see not a divided church, but a united witness, boldly standing for truth, holiness, and salvation in Christ.
To God be the glory. Amen.
