SOUTHLAKE, Texas – Reverend Robert Morris, the renowned founder and senior pastor of Gateway Church in North Texas, stepped down from his position amidst allegations of sexual assault involving a 12-year-old girl in the 1980s. The Board of Elders at Gateway Church announced on Tuesday that they had accepted Morris’s resignation and would be launching an investigation into the past abuse claims to gain a comprehensive understanding of the events.

Morris, who established the first Southlake location of Gateway Church in 2000, has grown the evangelical church into one of the largest in the United States with nine campuses across North Texas. The shocking allegations of sexual assault were made public by Cindy Clemishire, who accused Morris of molesting her during the years 1982 to 1987.

In response to the allegations, the church elders expressed deep sympathy to the victim, acknowledging they were unaware of the full extent of the abuse. The elders stated that their prior understanding was based on misinformation provided by Morris, who had previously disclosed an extramarital relationship with a young lady, not the abuse of a child. Clemishire, however, expressed mixed emotions regarding Morris’s resignation and called out the church elders for enabling his behavior.

In a statement to The Christian Post, Morris admitted to engaging in inappropriate sexual behavior, recognizing the wrongfulness of his actions. As the scandal unfolds, a law firm has been enlisted to conduct an investigation into the allegations, underscoring the seriousness of the situation and the commitment to uncovering the truth.

The church community remains in shock over these revelations, as Morris’s once-untarnished reputation now faces scrutiny. The fallout from the scandal raises questions about accountability, transparency, and the protection of vulnerable individuals within religious institutions. As the investigation proceeds, the focus shifts towards ensuring justice for the victim and holding those responsible for misconduct accountable.

The impact of Morris’s resignation reverberates throughout the congregation, leaving many followers grappling with a sense of betrayal and disillusionment. Moving forward, the church faces a critical juncture in rebuilding trust and fostering a safe environment for all members. The unfolding scandal serves as a sobering reminder of the importance of upholding ethical standards and safeguarding the well-being of vulnerable populations within faith communities.