A Dallas-area megachurch, Gateway Church, accepted the resignation of its senior pastor, Robert Morris, following allegations of an inappropriate relationship with a 12-year-old girl during the 1980s. The alleged abuse occurred between 1982 and 1987.
The victim, Cindy Clemishire, shared her account of the abuse with WFAA last week. According to her statement, Morris' behavior was brought to light in 1987 when he confessed and received counseling. However, the elders at Gateway Church were previously unaware of the full extent of Morris' actions.
The Board of Elders stated that they regret not having all the facts earlier and expressed sympathy to Clemishire and her family. They have retained a law firm to conduct an independent review of the report to fully understand the events that took place during this time period.
Morris, who founded Gateway Church in 2000, served on a faith advisory council during former President Donald Trump's administration. He hosted Trump at Gateway Church in June 2020.
The allegations against Morris were first reported by The Wartburg Watch, a Christian watchdog publication. Clemishire told WFAA that she had tried to tell church leaders about the abuse over the years but her story only came to light after a retired pastor suggested she speak with The Wartburg Watch.
Morris acknowledged the inappropriate sexual behavior and described it as kissing and petting without intercourse. He confessed to church elders at the time and sought forgiveness. However, Clemishire's family never supported Morris returning to the ministry.
The Board of Elders stated that they were previously aware of Morris' extramarital relationship but did not have all the facts regarding abuse.
This is a developing story and more information will be provided as it becomes available.