Megachurch Faces Class Action Over Alleged Financial Misconduct
Disgraced Gateway Church founder Robert Morris and other church leaders have asked a federal court to dismiss a class action lawsuit accusing the Southlake, Texas-based megachurch of misallocating tithes and failing to honor a “money-back guarantee.” The lawsuit, filed in October 2024 by four church members, claims Gateway Church lacked financial transparency and refused to refund tithes despite promises made by Morris and other leaders.
Legal Arguments for Dismissal
On February 18, attorneys for Morris and the church submitted a motion to the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Texas to dismiss the lawsuit. They argue the court lacks jurisdiction due to the “home state exception” in the Class Action Fairness Act, as most plaintiffs reside in Texas. Additionally, they cite the ecclesiastical abstention doctrine, asserting that courts cannot interfere with internal church matters.
Morris’ lawyers also claim the lawsuit fails under legal pleading standards. They argue that the plaintiffs do not establish a valid contract or misrepresentation claim and that some alleged misconduct falls outside the statute of limitations.
Plaintiffs Challenge Church’s Defense
The plaintiffs dispute Gateway Church’s reliance on the ecclesiastical abstention doctrine, arguing their claims are about fraud, not religious doctrine. They maintain that Morris and other church leaders knowingly misrepresented their tithing refund policy to encourage donations. Plaintiffs further argue that the money-back guarantee created an enforceable contract under Texas law, which Gateway Church failed to uphold.
First Liberty Institute Warns of Religious Freedom Consequences
First Liberty Institute, a religious freedom advocacy group, filed an amicus brief supporting Gateway Church’s motion to dismiss. The group argues that allowing the lawsuit to proceed could set a precedent restricting pastors from preaching freely. Examining sermons for implied contracts could chill religious expression and create legal risks for churches nationwide.
Next Steps in Legal Battle
Plaintiffs’ attorneys were granted an extension to respond to Morris’ motion, with a new deadline set for March 25. As the case moves forward, it raises broader questions about the intersection of religious freedom, financial accountability, and consumer protection in faith-based institutions.
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Gateway Church’s Robert Morris asks court to dismiss lawsuit over money-back guarantee on tithes
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