A tearful elder at Gateway Church apologized Saturday to both the victim of Robert Morris’ alleged child sexual abuse and the congregation of the Dallas-area megachurch, acknowledging the pain and betrayal they likely feel.
“Firstly, I’d like to express my personal compassion for (alleged victim) Cindy Clemishire,” said Gateway Elder Tra Willbanks. “I can’t imagine carrying a burden like that for so many years. And I want to say to you, Cindy, I’m so sorry.”
Then, addressing anyone in the congregation who’s likewise experienced abuse, Willbanks said, “I’m so sorry. I’m just so sorry. I cannot imagine the pain and the emotions this past week has stirred inside of you as you felt betrayed. And on behalf of the elders, we’re sorry.”
Willbanks then explained that the church had accepted Morris’ resignation earlier in the week and had hired an outside law firm, Haynes and Boone, to conduct an independent inquiry into the allegations. And he told the congregation, “This is Jesus’ church,” which prompted applause.
The announcement comes more than a week after The Wartburg Watch published Clemishire’s allegations that she was abused by Morris as a 12- to 16-year-old, from 1982-1986 in both Oklahoma and Texas.
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The elders first responded by sending Gateway staff a statement in which Morris acknowledged “inappropriate sexual behavior” with a “young lady.” The elders stated that Morris had “been open and forthright” about this “moral failure” and had undergone a two-year restoration process.
However, four days later, as more media outlets reported the news, the elders released another statement—this time to media. In that statement, the elders announced Morris’ resignation and said their prior understanding was that Morris’ “extramarital relationship, which he had discussed many times throughout his ministry, was with ‘a young lady’ and not abuse of a 12-year-old child.”
Last Friday, the elders addressed the congregation for the first time in a written statement posted on Gateway’s website.
“The details that have recently come to light are deeply disturbing,” the lengthy statement said.
It added, “Regrettably, prior to Friday, June 14, the current Elders did not have all the facts. The Board of Elders is deeply committed to walking in integrity and finding the truth.”
The written statement also pledged that “Gateway Church is committed to protecting people—first and foremost children and the most vulnerable. Abuse simply cannot be tolerated.” Willbanks reiterated the same words on Saturday and also pledged that the church would cooperate fully with the investigation by Haynes & Boone, one of the largest law firms in the U.S. with 700 lawyers in 19 offices, to uncover the truth.
Though Willbanks said the inquiry will be independent, Clemishire has expressed reservations. On June 18, the day Morris resigned, Clemishire noted in a statement that Haynes & Boone specializes in “crisis management.” She added that on its website, the firm says it will “mitigate financial and reputational loss” in a crisis.
Willbanks then got “very personal” and talked about how the news had impacted his family, which includes seven children, six of whom are girls.
“Our family this past week, like all of you, has shed tears, had heavy conversations, and we’ve been in deep prayer,” Willbanks said. “. . . Our family has been going to Gateway Church for 18 years. We go to Gateway Church not because of a building or a person. Our family goes to this church because we’ve seen the Lord move here.”
Then, Willbanks turned to the future of the church, which he admitted is uncertain.
“I don’t know what God’s plans are. But I know that I’m going to continue to worship the Lord and I’m going to worship the Lord in this place,” Willbanks said to the congregation’s applause. “Jesus said, ‘I will build my church.’ I want to remind you, this is His church. This is Jesus’ church.”
Willbanks ended his address by urging the congregation to pray. And as he exited the stage, the congregation stood and applauded.
Joakim Lundqvist, pastor and international ambassador of Word of Life Church in Uppsala, Sweden, preached the message at Gateway Saturday.
Lundqvist’s website refers to his “30 years of experience in youth ministry shines through in his creative messages that have the ability to relate to every generation.”
Gateway is expected to have other guest leaders minister to the congregation for the next few weeks.
Sheila Stogsdill contributed to this story.
Julie Roys is a veteran investigative reporter and founder of The Roys Report. She also previously hosted a national talk show on the Moody Radio Network, called Up for Debate, and has worked as a TV reporter for a CBS affiliate. Her articles have appeared in numerous periodicals.
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41 Responses
Tears, yes. Extreme, genuine emotion (including anger/rage) is real in the cases of criminal paedophelia. Every one suffers, beginning with the victim.
I agree. A 12 year old??? Molested for 4 years??? Have the police been involved? There are many in prison for less. This is the disgrace, why is he allowed to remain and then “repent” about ” the young lady” and resign as if he had a choice here?
I’m grieved at the condemnation of a delivered pastor of 40 years anointed ministry. He’s in public eye.If this man that is looking for sex offenders OR other felonies finds them present day operation from pulpit , thank you for exposing. If he finds a delivered saved changed leader .the victim should go to him or her fir forgiveness. Not destroy him as tho he wasn’t saved . I don’t want to tell my teenage drugged grandson that God has great plans for him but if you help people after you’re delivered someone may s
Gossip what you’ve done. And destroy you. A huge majority of leaders could be thrown to the Gossips today..
Why do you keep repeating “alleged”? it’s no longer an “alleged” element – Cindy was abused, plain and simple. I am so over Christians going on tippy-toes over what is blatant crime. Show your guts, Christians…..
I’m sure they’re following the best advice of legal counsel.
Because there is a legal standard for journalism. He has not been tried or convicted of any crime…and if “alleged” isn’t used and the accused is determined to be not guilty, they can sue for libel/slander.
Until he’s convicted of a crime, legally, people who report on this are bound to say it’s an alleged crime, or they might be subject to a civil suit. I would submit that you just ignore the word if it bothers you, and I mean that with all the love. I get it. The anger is real, and you’re not wrong in being angry, sister. This has been a problem in the Church for a long time and I, for one, am grateful it’s finally being addressed. Blessings to you.
My cry to all Christians is – do not shy away from abuse that you’ve suffered. I was abused in many ways during my childhood and my voice is still unheard.
I’m sorry Maria. I see you. You matter. I wish I could help 😔
Maria, what does it look like for you to be heard? Someone to confide in? Public disclosure of abuse so others are protected?
While I’m not sure if (or how much) I can help you, I know I can start by listening. I’ll provide you contact details upon permission or request.
A few observations:
1. How many Elders knew and when did they know? This Elder seemed real and broken. How much of the story did he know?
2. I cringe when I see a congregation applaud and stand up like they did.
3. What qualifications does the hired firm have with clergy sexual abuse, and said criminal activity?
4. Will those who knew step down and will leadership be replaced? Will they seek to reinstate the pastor after a brief ‘restoration’ and recovery.
5. What ‘restitution’ will be recommended and how will they change the churches culture of secrecy. Time will tell.
From what I’ve read, before this news went public, Morris had already been talking about his retirement with plans for his son to take over the pulpit.
He had already suggested, and the elders had approved, that James (his youngest son and middle child) would succeed him as Senior Pastor once he stepped down.
Currently – even before these events – Gateway was in its summer series where they have a lineup of guest speakers (historically Robert would be “on sabbatical” during this time and would return in the fall with a new sermon series). The plan likely is for James to take over (officially) at that time, though if there is enough push back or too many people leave, the elders may have to rethink that.
Dear Vance, my experience is that these Word of Faith or “tithe to get stuff from God” churches are so “speak a positive word” oriented that for the foreseeable future the pulpit speakers will be keeping a focus on the church’s continuation.
Thanks Dawn,
I do agree with you. Perhaps they shall read some of these comments. If the son steps in, this will be a big mistake.
Greetings everyone
I’m sorry to see this sort of event happen over and over again. While the church elders apologized about Mr Moris it doesn’t look like they applogized for not letting this happen. They admitted he talked about it, so they knew that potentially damaging situation was possible.
How much were these people paid not to do a basic preventative investigation. At the point there are more questions on why not to the elders than Mr. Moris.
Best regards
CJ
To be charitable to the current elders, the events happened between 38 and 42 years ago (1982-1986). Those involved in the initial “restoration” in the late 80s likely knew how serious and criminal the situation was, as would those contacted by Clemishire in 2005, but Morris always talked about his past sexual sin in vague language that did not reveal the girl involved was underage. So they probably assumed it was a dalliance with a “young lady” closer to his age at the time (his early 20s).
We can’t fairly expect the current elders to have “not let it happen.”
And that “restoration” involved a different church and a different group of elders.
Tra did not join Gateway’s Elder Board until 2014, nine years after Cindy’s first contact with Gateway and five years after another member (as reported on Wartburg Watch) notified the elders that Cindy had posted her story on Oprah Winfrey’s blog message board. I think, based on all I read, Tom Lane was running interference for Morris, keeping the other elders (especially those not on staff, such as Tra) from knowing the full story.
You make a saliant point, Mark.
Good morning Brian,
I apologize if I missed the who/what/when of the resoration process. By its fruits you can see how well it has worked. I sse that Mr. Moris said he went through one, but the details past that are pretty fuzzy.
The long time ago is no excuse. As an elder you would hope that they would be loyal to the Church and not the pastor. That is why I feel strongly that they should be held accountable. What are elders for? It was a false charity (in my opinion) that allowed this to happen. It still doesn’t excuse the fact that a known issue was out there.
Why wasn’t the whole elder board present and give their appology?
I see theatrics at one service by one person.
This should be considered the ‘Gold Standard’ in a negative way
Sorry to all the member of the church that didn’t deserve this one.
Best regards
Con
“This is Jesus’ church.” So a “church” built by a child molester that is built on greed by a man who is also very much technically a heretic is Jesus’ church? Boy that is not my Jesus, not by a very long shot. So who is this reimagined and fantasy Jesus Christ? I thought it was Satan who used child molesters and heretics to build his own alt version of church.
Yep. Heretics hopefully will at some time will be exposed.
It is completely creepy to me that his wife Debbie conspired with him all these years. The fact that Debbie called Cindy to tell her she forgave her is cruel beyond measure. The calculation of all of it from clever wording to intimidation speaks of a clever duo. How in the world did they live with themselves as they climbed the ladder? How did Debbie not live concerned for her daughters and granddaughters safety?
Hi Phyllis!
One thing I’ve concluded about this is that rape culture was so prominent in the 80s, so Debbie’s response wasn’t so uncommon. Wrong, yes. Uncommon, not so much. Idk what gen you hail from, but I’m GenX, and I remember a lot of responsibility being placed *inappropriately* on the victim in these situations, so Debbie may have been taught that poor Cindy had “tempted him to sin,” or something equally as ridiculous. Now today, in 2024, we know that is an absolutely unacceptable take. However, I did just see a female pastor post on social media, pleading for people to not judge Robert because “some 12-year old girls are beautiful and sexy.” Oh yes, she sure said that with her whole chest, ma’am, bless her heart. We are FINALLY ridding society of this toxic (and frankly, quite stupid) ideology, thank you sweet baby Jesus, but it was not so when this happened, so sadly, context matters. However, Robert still did what he did, and he has consequences to face, some natural and possibly some legal. And of course this is just my take on things, having done a lot of studying on spiritual abuse and harm over the years. Incidentally, I also graduated from King’s University and attended Gateway for a few years, but I did see some things in Robert that I didn’t like, such as platforming Mark Driscoll, and some Christian Nationalism. So I left Gateway, but this news shook me to my core, I’ll admit. I’m still processing. I hope you process and heal well, my sister. Blessings to you.
There is clearly probable cause for the local DA to open an investigation for criminal sexual conduct, accessory to criminal sexual conduct and obstruction of justice.
The Roys Report needs to get a statement from the local DA.
The statute of limitations (both criminal and civil) on what Morris did has long passed. Subsequent changes are only prospective: courts have ruled that they cannot retroactively be applied to past events under Constitutional prohibitions against “ex post facto” laws.
But we can take comfort in that there is a Last Judgement which no one will avoid.
How did he have access to her in 2 states?
Because the Pastor’s family with whom he & his family stayed had resided both in OK & TX.
Tues 6/25 – I was wrong in that the OK pastor didn’t later have a residence in TX. The sexual abuse in TX took place at the Morris’ residence 😢
My understanding is that he was a traveling evangelist/preacher. He lived in Texas, and Cindy’s family lived in OK.
Evil Yes!
I still have unanswered questions! Why am I hearing about this 40+years later! Was there any genuine repentance? Did the father forgive him? Is it true he was sat down for 2 years? One of the greatest men in the Bible stole another man’s wife and then killed the husband! Yet Jesus is reference forever after his house! People who speak the strongest judgements often have huge skeletons in their closets!
King David faced huge consequences for his sin, including death of two sons, running from one and other things. The way you make light of this, “pastor,” shows to me that you are likely one of snakes who have been feeding on the sheep. The year my brother died, I was shown a cell in hell reserved for people who thought they were Christians but Jesus, in his own words, did not know them. It was the most real place I have ever experienced. You are dangerously close to this direction with this kind of trolling comment. Do you have children? How would you feel and what would you do if some celebrity preacher molested them? I leave you with the warning of Jesus Christ to Pharisees who made very similar comments. “Woe to you! How are you going to avoid hell?” These are Jesus Christ’s words, not mine. Showing you care not at all about righteousness speaks volumes. May your own sheep get far away from you for their own protection…
If the Morris family, Gateway church, the elders, and staff have have genuine sorrow to go along with the tears they should:
1. Have James Morris, the current head of the church and son of Robert, stand up and give a live apology and publicly release anyone who has ever signed a NDA with them or one of their affiliate organizations. All current elders and staff should publicly to commit to never work with a church or other organization that uses NDAs to limit what people can say about them.
A pledge to seek the truth rings hollow when the party in power can prevent those with less power from speaking.
2. Remove Haynes and Boone, LLP the law firm hired, and paid for, by the Morris family and the Gateway church elders to protect them. Haynes and Boone should be replace with an organization such as https://www.netgrace.org/ whose goal is to discover and root out abuse in Christian churches.
A pledge to discover the truth rings hollow when the party in power hires a law firms whose primary goal is to limit their exposure and liability.
This is sad. But the facts are that the abuse happened BEFORE Pastor Robert Morris started Gateway Church. He had repented and went through the restoration process. More importantly, he did reach out to her and her father and apologized and asked them for forgiveness. She claims to have done that. Her father had the opportunity to report him to the police and chose not to do that. He did try and settle this with the victim, and she declined that offer. Why didn’t she tell him as a condition to any settlement that he can never be in ministry again? She came forward in order to make sure there have been no other victims. She feels that he shouldn’t be in ministry given that no one else accused of a sexual offense can be teachers, doctors, etc. He says that he took the accountability seriously to never do this again. If the investigation uncovers that nothing occurred during his time at Gateway, then what? I do prison ministry. The most difficult part is working with individuals who have committed these types of crimes. They get out and lead fairly good lives and some continue to go to counseling. The thing that’s difficult is when their past crimes get brought up years after the fact and then the persecution, judgment, etc., begins all over again. I can understand why they stop going to church. No one is harsher than Christians.
quick correction- he didn’t “repent”, he got caught when she told authorities. And there are absolutely some actions that disqualify people from leadership forever. Sure he can be forgiven, and restored to community, but he should have never been put in authority again, because he had proven he did not have the character to manage it. and it had devistating effects on others.
you work in prison ministry- and I am all about full restoration of rights when people have completed their sentance. but even there, people who embezzle millions are legally forbidden from going back into places of financial power.
The problem with christians is that they are harsh on the people Jesus fought for, and fawn over the people Jesus rebuked. Jesus litterally said it’s better for Morris to have a mill stone tied around his neck and thrown into the deep than to harm a child.
I encourage everyone who takes this position to look at the statistics on Religion in the United States. On average, since the 1980’s, there has been an average increase per year in the number of people who consider themselves “nones” of .5%
Current data indicates that, as a whole, the country has just under 30% nones, and the critical 18-30 age group has just under 40% nones. That young group is essential because they raise their children as nones, accelerating the overall growth of that group.
The two main reasons cited by people who were raised in the church and then left the church are “No longer agree with the teachings” and “Sexual assault and sexual abuse within the church.
It appears that at least once, he used legal threats to keep the victim quiet. As part of the repentance process, the abuser’s adult wife told the then 16-year victim that she forgave her.
These acts sound like coercion and gaslighting, which are exactly the opposite of repentance and acceptance of responsibility.
By supporting Morris in this situation, people are saying that using coercion and gaslighting to cover sexual abuse for decades is an acceptable part of the church’s teaching.
I wonder how many people woke up on Sunday thinking about going to church. They read an article about Robert Morris and how the church says he is not responsible for his actions because… How many decide to go to brunch or fishing at the lake instead?
Good evening Rev. Crystal,
Mr. Morris said he did and he also painted the abuse that happened between him and a young lady – not a 12 year old. That alone leads me to question a lot about his restoration and repentance.
I haven’t heard that Mr. Morris has responded to the charges and he did come forth and apologize. Again that has me question the resortation process and his repentance.
Only one elder apologized (in a rather theatrical way) and that make me question the elder’s motives in this matter. People were paid (and possibly paid a large salary) to be employed be the church. Why isn’t some one questioning the Elders part in this. If a church building burned down due to negligence, I would hope the conversations questions would be answered.
I’m sorry for all that have been hurt/shocked by this mess.
— Con O’Keeffe
” No one is harsher than Christians.” Actually the opposite is true. No one is more hopelessly milk-toast and cares less about justice than Christians. Your comment is a clear example of this. This is because most “Christians” spend all of their time focusing on the Gospels, which show one side of Jesus Christ, and ignore the book of Revelation, along with most of the harshest things Jesus Christ said in those gospels. Jesus rips up the Pharisees for their hypocrisy stating, “How will you avoid hell?” The risen Christ is a very terrifying figure.
You assume Morris repented when their is no clear evidence of this. I am well familiar with this with my own brother who molested over 30 years ago and did 5 years hard time. My brother is head deacon now at the church we grew up in. How many women in the hospital want a sex offender to come and visit them? He refuses to step down and repent. The year my other brother died I was shown a cell in hell reserved for those who thought they were Christians, but Jesus does not know them. It was the most real place I have seen. It was a warning to both my brothers. Your comment reminds me of the remarks the people made against the prophets of old. Jesus loved those prophets for telling the people the whole truth about their sin. “Let he who thinks they stand take head, less they fall.” You have judged the very ones who fear God the most. Not a good take…
” No one is harsher than Christians.” Vs. “No one is more hopelessly milk-toast and cares less about justice than Christians.”
I have been wrestling with this dichotomy for decades. My conclusion is that both are equally true. The difference is if someone is on the inside looking out or on the outside looking in.
There often appears to be the idea that if someone within our group fails, they deserve God’s mercy. As group members, we will go through extreme mental gymnastics to prove how one of our own is good and thus deserving of God’s New Testament mercy.
However, if someone outside the group fails, they deserve Justice. God’s Old Testament fire and damnation sort of justice.
The challenging part is that as humans, we pick and choose which to apply in a given situation so as to cause the least cognitive dissonance for ourselves.
Jesus did not speak harshly about the evil Romans or pagans though they certainly did much that the Scriptures condemn. I have noticed the dichotomy you referenced as well. It is about people calling themselves “Christians” while doing the exact opposite of what Jesus Christ did. Jesus did not condemn the lost because they are lost and already condemned. But boy ever did God incarnate condemn the religious authorities who knew the Word and yet practiced the exact opposite! The dichotomy is about hypocrisy. I referred to a man with a religious title, lets call him a neo-Pharisee, who condemned the insiders who were speaking up against evil on the inside. Likely, this same religious hypocrite would condemn those outside Christianity while telling the prophets inside to “Shut up you @*&!” This is nothing new for the prophets Jesus loved were despised and tortured by wicked men leveraging the power of God for their own selfish reasons. The nature of men with power has never changed. May God save us from selfish men everywhere with power who lord it over others.
Did he go to prison? No? Then justice has not been served.