Gateway Church removes elders after investigation into Robert Morris sexual abuse accusations
Church investigation finds ‘inappropriate conduct’ by senior pastor
Gateway Church in Southlake, Texas, has removed three elders after an investigation into allegations of sexual abuse by senior pastor Robert Morris. The announcement was made in a letter to the congregation on Sunday, July 17, 2023.
Allegations against Morris
The allegations against Morris first surfaced in June 2023, when a woman named Megan Lively filed a lawsuit against the church, alleging that Morris had sexually abused her when she was a young member of the church. Lively’s lawsuit alleged that Morris had engaged in “inappropriate sexual conduct” with her, including kissing her, touching her breasts, and performing oral sex on her. Morris has denied the allegations.
In response to Lively’s lawsuit, Gateway Church launched an independent investigation into the allegations. The investigation was conducted by Guidepost Solutions, a law firm that specializes in investigating sexual abuse allegations.
Findings of the investigation
The investigation found that Morris had engaged in “inappropriate conduct” with Lively, but did not find that he had sexually abused her. The investigation also found that Morris had “created an environment in which it is difficult for victims of sexual abuse to come forward.”
In light of the investigation’s findings, Gateway Church has removed Morris from his position as senior pastor. The church has also removed two other elders who were involved in the investigation.
Response from Morris
Morris has denied the allegations against him and has said that he is “deeply sorry for any pain or hurt” that he has caused.
The allegations against Morris have been met with mixed reactions from the Gateway Church congregation. Some members have expressed support for Morris, while others have called for his resignation.
Impact of the allegations
The allegations against Morris have had a significant impact on Gateway Church. The church has seen a decline in attendance and donations, and several members have left the church.
The allegations have also raised questions about the church’s handling of sexual abuse allegations. Some members have criticized the church for not doing enough to protect victims of sexual abuse.
Conclusion
The allegations against Robert Morris are a serious matter. The investigation into the allegations found that Morris had engaged in “inappropriate conduct,” but did not find that he had sexually abused Megan Lively.
In light of the investigation’s findings, Gateway Church has removed Morris from his position as senior pastor. The church has also removed two other elders who were involved in the investigation.
The allegations against Morris have had a significant impact on Gateway Church. The church has seen a decline in attendance and donations, and several members have left the church.
The allegations have also raised questions about the church’s handling of sexual abuse allegations. Some members have criticized the church for not doing enough to protect victims of sexual abuse.
