“Title IV” refers to the section of the Canons of The Episcopal Church that governs ecclesiastical discipline for members of the clergy, including deacons, priests, and bishops. These canons provide a formal process for responding to allegations of misconduct, violations of ordination vows, abuse of authority, neglect of pastoral responsibilities, or other conduct that may be inconsistent with the standards of ordained ministry.
The purpose of the Title IV process is not simply punitive. It is intended to promote accountability, pastoral care, truth-telling, reconciliation where possible, the protection of individuals and communities, and the restoration of healthy relationships within the life of the Church.
A Title IV matter begins with an Intake Officer. The Intake Officer receives information about possible clergy misconduct and helps determine what next steps may be appropriate under the canons. A person does not need to know whether a particular situation technically constitutes a canonical offense before contacting the Intake Officer. If you have a concern about the conduct of a deacon or priest in the Diocese of Northwest Texas, you may contact the Intake Officer to share that concern and learn more about the process.
The Intake Officer will receive the information provided, explain the Title IV process, and help ensure that the concern is directed appropriately. Depending on the circumstances, the process may involve pastoral response, investigation, referral, mediation, an agreement for discipline, or other canonical proceedings.
Concerns involving a bishop are handled through a different Title IV process within The Episcopal Church and are not ordinarily investigated by the diocesan Intake Officer.
Intake Officer Archdeacon Chris Wrampelmeier 2602 S. Parker Amarillo, Texas 79106-2116
“Title IV” refers to the section of the Canons of The Episcopal Church that governs ecclesiastical discipline for members of the clergy, including deacons, priests, and bishops. These canons provide a formal process for responding to allegations of misconduct, violations of ordination vows, abuse of authority, neglect of pastoral responsibilities, or other conduct that may be inconsistent with the standards of ordained ministry.