Texas Megachurch Founder Indicted on Lewd Acts with a Child Charges

Robert Morris, the founder of Gateway Church in Southlake, Texas, has been indicted on five counts of lewd or indecent acts with a child. The charges, announced by the Oklahoma Attorney General’s Office, allege that Morris, 63, engaged in inappropriate sexual behavior with a minor during the 1980s. The abuse is said to have begun in December 1982 when Morris, then 21, was visiting the Hominy, Oklahoma, home of the victim, who was 12 at the time.

Morris resigned as senior pastor of Gateway Church in 2024 after admitting to “inappropriate sexual behavior” from the 1980s. The church, one of the largest megachurches in the United States, has since faced scrutiny over its leadership and past practices. The indictment marks a significant legal development in the case against Morris, who is currently not represented by an attorney in the criminal proceedings.

The allegations against Morris have raised concerns within the broader Christian community, particularly regarding the accountability of church leaders. The case highlights the ongoing challenges faced by megachurches in addressing past misconduct and ensuring transparency. As the legal process unfolds, the focus remains on the facts presented by the prosecution.

The indictment underscores the need for vigilance in protecting the vulnerable, a principle echoed in Proverbs 31:8-9, which calls for advocating for those who cannot speak for themselves. The case serves as a reminder of the importance of justice and accountability in all spheres of life, including religious institutions.

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