Bestselling Christian author Max Lucado will join Gateway Church as an interim teaching pastor. This transition follows the resignation of James Morris, who stepped down amid a child sex abuse scandal involving his father, Robert Morris, the church’s founder. James Morris had succeeded his father in June but stepped down just weeks later. The resignation of James and his wife, Bridgette, was a collective decision made after discussions with church elders.
The church elders, seeking advice from respected pastors and ministry leaders, decided it was best to cut ties with the Morrises. Despite this, the elders expressed confidence that James and Bridgette would serve as senior leaders of another church in the future. They thanked the Morrises for their faithful service to Gateway Church and promised more updates soon.
Max Lucado responded to reports on social media, clarifying that he is not leaving Oak Hills Church. Instead, he will serve as the teaching pastor at Gateway Church through the end of 2024. Lucado plans to preach at both locations in the fall, emphasizing his desire to support God’s hurting people.
Lucado’s temporary role at Gateway Church coincides with revelations from his recent book, “God Never Gives Up on You.” In the book, Lucado disclosed his past struggles with alcohol, which he used to manage stress as his ministry grew. He confessed these struggles to church elders, who designed a plan to help him cope with the demands of his ministry.
The scandal involving Robert Morris resurfaced last month when Cindy Clemishire, 54, accused him of sexually abusing her starting when she was 12 years old. Morris admitted to inappropriate behavior but denied full responsibility. He stated that he had repented and was restored to ministry. Clemishire, however, insisted that she was a child when the abuse occurred and described the actions as a form of rape by instrumentation.
Gateway Church is now conducting an independent review of the allegations, years after Clemishire first contacted Morris seeking restitution. The church’s response to the situation and Max Lucado’s involvement in a leadership role highlight a period of significant change and challenge for Gateway Church.
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Robert Morris’ son exits Gateway Church; Max Lucado to serve as interim teaching pastor
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