The size of Gateway Church’s staff continues to be reduced amid scandal and financial hardship. Kenneth Fambro, one of the church’s three remaining elders, revealed in a video that was intended for staff members but leaked to social media that giving is down by 35%-40%.
Gateway has languished since Pastor Robert Morris resigned in disgrace in June after allegations came to light that he had committed child sex abuse in the 1980s. For years, Morris, who founded Gateway Church, openly discussed an “inappropriate relationship” he had during his early 20s, prior to founding Gateway.
However, when Cindy Clemishire came forward and claimed that Morris began engaging in sexual activity with her when she was just 12 years old, it became apparent that Morris’ story of a past affair was actually sexual abuse.
Morris’ departure from Gateway has led to a wave of resignations, including that of James Morris, the son of Robert Morris, who had been expected to succeed his father as senior pastor.
RELATED: Gateway Church Launches Formal Search for New Senior Pastor, Apologizes to Cindy Clemishire
The younger Morris is now in the process of founding a separate church.
Some who have resigned or been asked to resign reportedly knew about Robert Morris’ alleged abuse or otherwise had information that ought to have triggered an investigation but failed to act.
Gateway determined who would be asked to resign after receiving the results of a third-party investigation into all of the church’s internal communications.
Gateway has also commissioned a comprehensive financial audit and is in the process of amending its bylaws to qualify for certification from the Evangelical Council for Financial Accountability (ECFA).
Nevertheless, the church is involved in more than one open lawsuit for its alleged mishandling of abuse allegations. In a recent update to the church, elder Tra Willbanks also indicated that Morris is seeking financial restitution for himself.
RELATED: Gateway Church Members File Financial Fraud Lawsuit Against Robert Morris, 3 Other Pastors
Willbanks further said that a criminal investigation is underway, clarifying that it does not involve anyone currently in leadership at Gateway and that the church is cooperating with the authorities.
