Following that investigation, which found that several high-level leaders at the church either knew about Morris’ abuse of Clemishire or knew enough that they were morally obligated to make further inquiry, Grove did not return to the board.
Clemishire filed her lawsuit against the church and some of its key leaders in June 2025.
Dulin and Grove both sought to be removed from the suit under the Texas Citizens Participation Act, which is designed to protect people from meritless or retaliatory legal claims. Dallas County Judge Emily Tobolowsky has now denied the request, ruling that the lawsuit can move forward.
Gateway Church is engaged in additional litigation with Morris himself, who is suing the church for retirement compensation. While Morris had expected a retirement package worth millions of dollars, the church is alleging that Morris breached his contract and is no longer entitled to that amount.
As part of that lawsuit, Morris also claims that the church elders knew that Clemishire was a child at the time of his abuse of her.
RELATED: While Some Think Robert Morris’ Prison Term Is Too Short, a Texas Attorney Says It’s ‘Appropriate’
The trial for Cindy Clemishire’s lawsuit is set for June.
