Gateway Church Texas removes elders. Texas Megachurch Removes 4 Elders from Leadership Following Abuse Investigation: ‘Will Not Be Tolerated’.
Gateway Church is a large, multi-campus Christian church based in the Dallas-Fort Worth area of Texas. Known for its dynamic worship, biblical teaching, and community outreach, Gateway is one of the largest and most influential churches in the region.
Key Information About Gateway Church:
- Founding and Leadership:
Gateway Church was founded in 2000 by Pastor Robert Morris and his wife, Debbie Morris. Pastor Robert is known for his teachings on topics such as generosity, faith, and leadership. He has authored several books and is also the founder of the Gateway Leadership Institute, which trains Christian leaders. - Location:
The main campus of Gateway Church is located in Southlake, Texas, a suburb of the Dallas-Fort Worth area. However, the church has several additional campuses in cities like Frisco, McKinney, and Mansfield, among others. It also has a significant online presence, broadcasting services and content worldwide. - Worship and Music:
Gateway Church is known for its vibrant worship services, which often feature contemporary Christian music. The church has its own worship ministry, Gateway Worship, which has produced multiple albums that have gained national and international recognition. Songs like “Revelation Song,” “Freedom,” and “I Am Yours” have become widely popular in many churches. - Ministries and Programs:
Gateway Church offers a variety of programs and ministries for individuals of all ages, including children, youth, adults, and seniors. These include Bible studies, small groups, mission trips, and special events. Gateway is also committed to community outreach and global missions, partnering with local organizations and churches to serve people in need. - Beliefs:
Gateway Church holds to traditional Christian doctrines, including belief in the Bible as the inspired Word of God, salvation through faith in Jesus Christ, and the importance of living a life of service and generosity. The church is part of the Assemblies of God denomination but is open to Christians from various backgrounds. - Services and Events:
Gateway Church offers multiple weekend services, including Saturday and Sunday worship services, often accompanied by children’s and youth programs. In addition, the church hosts conferences, leadership events, and other gatherings aimed at fostering spiritual growth and community building. - Online and Media Presence:
Gateway Church has a strong online presence, streaming services and making resources available through their website and social media platforms. They also provide online courses, podcasts, and video content.
Mission:
The mission of Gateway Church is to “create a church that unchurched people love to attend” and to help individuals grow in their faith through worship, teaching, and community engagement. Their vision emphasizes changing lives, transforming communities, and expanding God’s Kingdom through the power of the Gospel.
Gateway Church removes elders
Gateway Church removes elders to support a criminal investigation and denounces sexual abuse.
A Texas megachurch, Gateway Church, announced the removal of several elders after an independent investigation by the law firm Haynes and Boone into child sex abuse allegations against former senior pastor Robert Morris.
Morris publicly admitted to having “inappropriate sexual behavior with a young lady” 35 years ago. During a livestreamed service, elder Tra Willbanks shared the update, revealing that the investigation, which focused on allegations by Cindy Clemishire, was presented to a subcommittee formed to handle the issue.
During his update, elder Tra Willbanks expressed deep sorrow, stating, “What happened to Cindy Clemishire was heartbreaking and vile.”
He strongly denounced sexual abuse in all its forms and conveyed the church’s sorrow for victims of such actions. Willbanks also praised Clemishire for her bravery in coming forward with her allegations of sexual abuse by former senior pastor Robert Morris, which she claims began in 1982 when she was just 12 years old and continued until 1987. Clemishire shared her story with USA TODAY in June.
Contact Information:
Website: www.gatewaychurch.com
Location:
Main Campus: 7100 Gateway Drive, Southlake, TX 76092
For details on other campuses, visit the website.
Social Media: Gateway Church is active on platforms like Facebook, Instagram, YouTube, and Twitter.
Final Thoughts:
Gateway Church is an influential and welcoming community that has made a significant impact in Texas and beyond. With its engaging worship, practical teaching, and a focus on outreach, Gateway Church continues to grow and serve as a place for people to deepen their faith and build meaningful relationships.