Allegations of Sexual Abuse Lead to Resignation of Texas Megachurch Pastor

Founder and senior pastor, Robert Morris, of Gateway Church in Texas has resigned following accusations of sexual abuse by a woman named Cindy Clemishire who alleges the abuse occurred when she was a minor between 1982 and 1987.

The church’s Board of Elders accepted Morris’ resignation, expressing being “heartbroken and appalled” by the allegations brought forth by Clemishire, who was only 12 years old when the abuse allegedly began.

Clemishire’s claims were revealed on the Dallas Morning News, where she detailed the incidents and disputed the board’s knowledge of her age during the reported abuse, having previously informed a church official and a board member about the events in 2005 and 2007.

Before his resignation, Morris’ name was removed from the church’s leadership page, and his son James is now listed as the senior leader of Gateway Church.

In a subsequent statement to the Christian Post, Morris confessed to his involvement in inappropriate sexual behavior with a young lady in the 1980s, stating that he had confessed, repented, and sought counsel and a temporary break from ministry.

Gateway Church, which Morris founded in 2000, has multiple locations in the North Texas area, including Southlake, Grand Prairie, Plano, and Fort Worth.

In his past, Morris was an executive board member in former President Trump‘s faith advisory group and had significant influence in the conservative Christian community.

Local politicians such as former Southlake Mayor John Huffman and Texas Representative Giovanni Capriglione have spoken out about the allegations, emphasizing the need for accountability and proper investigation into the matter.

The Gateway Church’s Board of Elders has enlisted Haynes & Boone, LLP to conduct an independent review of the sexual abuse allegations, expressing sympathy for the victim and her family in their official statement.