Published on August 16, 2024, 12:29 am

Image source: Fox News

In an unexpected turn of events, Gateway Church has opted to cancel its annual Gateway Conference this year. The decision comes in the wake of the recent resignation of Robert Morris, the founding pastor, over claims of sexual misconduct that happened over thirty years ago. The church asserted that the decision followed “a great deal of prayer and introspection.”

The situation surrounding Robert Morris’s departure is forged with intense emotions for both staff and congregation, which they are currently struggling to navigate. Given these circumstances and their desire to foster a therapeutic environment for all parties affected, they deemed it most suitable not to proceed with this year’s Gateway Conference.

The cancellation may disappoint and inconvenience many; hence, they will offer full refunds for those already registered for the conference. Yet above it all, the organizers expressed sincere regret over any distressing impact resulting from this scenario on survivors and, more broadly speaking, on other members of the Christian realm at large. They continued by extending gratitude towards all those who extended support during this challenging period.

Robert Morris was one of the prominent figures in real news when his departure from Gateway Church broke out. This letdown originated from allegations stating he had instigated abusive behavior against a woman named Cindy Clemishire when she was just 12 years old back in the ’80s – a period spanning approximately five years.

Before announcing his resignation, Morris conceded to partaking in “improper sexual behavior” with a young woman during his twenties but refrained from specifically naming Clemishire as his victim.

To fully apprehend these events dating back from 1982-1987, Haynes & Boone LLP—one reputable law firm—was hired by elders besides accepting Robert Morris’s resignation.

Clearly grappling with shock upon discovering this unenviable truth regarding her age at commencement as well as duration of abuse—a detail withheld by Morris when confessing—he has always referred to her only as ‘a young lady’ rather than an abused 12-year-old. Gateway’s elders, crestfallen and appalled by the revelations, extended their deep sympathies to the victim and her family.

On a related note, Robert Morris’ son James and his wife Bridgette retreated from their leadership role at Gateway Church after meeting with elders in July. Esteemed Christian author and Pastor Max Lucado will now serve as interim teaching pastor at Gateway Church.

The latest development stands as testament to trusted news marred by instances of misconduct within the church, even though they had occurred before its founding.