Robert Morris (born July 29, 1961, age 62) is a former senior pastor of Gateway Church, a prominent multicampus institution in the Dallas-Fort Worth area of Texas.
Known for his extensive reach, Morris’s TV program spans across 190 countries, while his radio show, “Worship & the Word with Pastor Robert,” broadcasts in over 6,800 cities.
In addition to his pastoral duties, Morris holds the role of chancellor at The King’s University and boasts a bestselling authorship with titles like “The Blessed Life,” “Dream to Destiny,” “The God I Never Knew,” and “Grace, Period.”
However, Morris’s career took a tumultuous turn when allegations of sexual abuse surfaced. Cindy Clemishire, an Oklahoma realtor, came forward accusing Morris of sexually abusing her multiple times in the 1980s, starting when she was only 12 years old.
In response to these allegations, Morris acknowledged “inappropriate sexual behavior with a young lady” during that period. Consequently, Gateway Church accepted his resignation as senior pastor on a Tuesday.
Morris Assaulted Cindy multiple times
In 1981, Cindy and her family met Robert Morris, a 20-year-old evangelist, at a youth event in Tulsa. Morris, married to Debbie, became close to Cindy’s family in Hominy, Oklahoma, preaching at their church and staying at their home.
But on Christmas night 1982, everything changed. Morris, trusted by Cindy’s family, sexually assaulted her in his room and warned her to keep quiet. This abuse continued until 1987 in Texas and Oklahoma, even at Morris’s home.
Cindy finally confided in a friend, who urged her to tell her parents. When her father learned the truth, he confronted the church’s pastor, demanding Morris be removed. Morris stepped down from ministry for two years afterward.
Robert confessed he had ‘inappropriate’ behavior with ‘Young Lady’
Dallas-area megachurch pastor Robert Morris has acknowledged engaging in “inappropriate sexual behavior with a young lady” during the 1980s, stemming from accusations of molestation when she was 12 years old.
In a candid public statement, Morris disclosed that the incidents, which spanned multiple years and involved kissing and petting but no intercourse, came to light in March 1987.
Upon revelation, Morris confessed to the Elders of Shady Grove Church and the young lady’s father. As a result, he voluntarily stepped down from ministry and committed to counseling and a restoration process.
“I deeply regret my actions from that time,” Morris expressed. “Since then, I have been committed to living a life of purity and accountability.”
In 1989, Morris and his wife approached the survivor and her family to seek forgiveness, a gesture that was reportedly granted. Gateway Church, where Morris currently serves, stated that he underwent a rigorous two-year “restoration process” overseen by Shady Grove Church elders and involving professional counseling and ministry.
Gateway Church affirmed that Morris has not faced any further moral lapses since the resolution of this decades-old issue.
Robert & Debbie Morris has three kids
Robert Morris and his wife Debbie have been married for 44 years. They met as teenagers in their church youth group where Robert was known for his playful side.
Despite their differences, they started dating when Debbie was 17 and Robert was 16. Robert’s commitment to his faith changed their relationship when he dedicated his life to God in 1981.
Debbie appreciates Robert’s love and support. He always makes her laugh and takes care of her needs. They enjoy living on their rural property away from the city, where Robert surprised Debbie with a tractor to help with their land.
They both love family and faith. They have two married sons, one married daughter, and nine grandchildren who bring them a lot of joy.
Robert Morris FAQs
Ques: Who is Robert Morris’s wife?
Ans: Debbie Morris.
Ques: What is Robert Morris’s age?
Ans: Pastor Robert is 62.
Ques: Why did Robert Morris resign from Gateway Church?
Ans: Pastor Robert resigned following allegations of sexually assaulting a 12-year-old girl.