SOUTHLAKE, Texas — Gateway Church is seeking dismissal from a defamation lawsuit linked to allegations of sexual abuse against its founder, Robert Morris. The lawsuit has been filed by Cindy Clemishire and her father, addressing the church’s public response to the accusations.
Clemishire alleges that Morris sexually abused her starting in 1982, when she was just 12 years old. She brought her allegations to light in June 2024, prompting a statement from Gateway Church that described Morris’s conduct as “inappropriate sexual behavior with a young lady,” though it did not specify her age.
Following the media attention surrounding the allegations, Morris resigned from his position, and Gateway Church issued a public apology while initiating an independent investigation into the matter. These actions came in the wake of mounting scrutiny regarding the church’s handling of the allegations.
In its motion to dismiss the lawsuit, the church contends that the case centers on its reaction to the allegations rather than the abuse itself. Gateway argues that its statements were truthful, part of its crisis management efforts, and were revised promptly once more information came to light about the abuse.
The church’s motion states, “The harm Ms. Clemishire and her family endured was not legally caused by or attributable to Gateway.” It further emphasizes that the plaintiffs’ claims focus more on the church’s public relations efforts than on the actual abuse.
Gateway Church also references the ecclesiastical-abstention doctrine, which shields religious organizations from court scrutiny regarding their internal governance and doctrinal matters. This legal principle bolsters the church’s argument favoring dismissal.
The church’s motion claims that Clemishire’s lawsuit does not meet the criteria established by both the Texas Citizens Participation Act and Texas Rule of Civil Procedure 91a, which allow for immediate dismissal of cases lacking legal merit. Gateway insists that none of the statements made in its defense can be classified as defamatory.
Clemishire and her father are seeking accountability for the effects of the church’s response. However, Gateway maintains that its efforts to address the situation were sincere and aimed at leading its congregation through a tumultuous time.
This case continues to draw attention as it uncovers broader issues surrounding institutional responses to allegations of abuse and the responsibilities of religious organizations in upholding accountability.
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