Previously, Morris indicated that he had an “inappropriate relationship” with a “young lady” early in his ministry. Both Morris and Clemishire have said Gateway leaders long knew that Clemishire was only 12 when the abuse started.
Clemishire and her father have filed a $1 million civil lawsuit against Morris, his wife, and several current and former Gateway leaders. In the suit, set for trial in June 2026, Clemishire claims that Morris and the other defendants made “knowingly false” statements about her and “acted with actual malice” and “reckless disregard for the truth.”
Fallout at Gateway Church
Robert Morris founded Gateway Church in Southlake, Texas, in the year 2000. Since his June 2024 resignation, the megachurch has experienced declines in attendance and giving. In addition, Gateway has cut staff and worship services. Last month, Daniel Floyd became the new senior pastor.
As ChurchLeaders has reported, Morris is suing Gateway about disputed retirement payments. The two sides are in the process of selecting an arbitration venue.
In his lawsuit about compensation, Morris claimed that church elders were fully aware of his alleged child sex abuse. The former pastor said the Gateway elder board knew as early as 2011 the details of his alleged abuse—including the fact that Clemishire was underage at the time.
, Gateway Church founder Robert Morris waived his right to a preliminary hearing.){kind=link}