Gateway Church to Cut Staff Amid Financial Struggles Following Scandal
Gateway Church has announced plans to reduce its staff in the coming weeks. The decision comes as the church faces a steep decline in financial contributions following sexual abuse allegations involving its founding pastor, Robert Morris.
In a message to members on Wednesday, church elders said giving has dropped significantly over the past year, even though attendance has remained relatively stable.
“Tithing has not mirrored attendance,” the elders wrote. “The issues surrounding our former pastor have deeply affected giving levels.”
Why is Gateway cutting staff?
Leaders cited financial strain as the main reason. They explained that current income cannot sustain the existing payroll. After months of deliberation, they concluded that restructuring was necessary.
“This was not an easy decision,” said Tra Willbanks, chairman of the church’s board of elders. “But it’s one we had to make to continue serving our church effectively.”
Affected employees will be given two weeks to resign voluntarily. Those who do will receive severance pay based on their years of service, with a maximum of four months.
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The church’s finances have been under pressure since June 2024, when Robert Morris resigned amid child sex abuse allegations. Attendance has since dropped by nearly a quarter, and trust among members has eroded.
The most serious accusations come from Cindy Clemishire, who says Morris began abusing her in 1982 when she was just 12. She has also filed a defamation lawsuit, accusing Gateway of misrepresenting the abuse as a consensual relationship in public statements.
Morris was indicted in March 2025 on five counts of lewd acts with a child. The case is ongoing.
To regain credibility, Gateway has announced that it will undergo a forensic audit. It also plans to join the Evangelical Council for Financial Accountability, an oversight body for Christian ministries.
A class-action lawsuit from several church members also alleges that leaders misused millions in tithes intended for global missions. Church officials have not commented on that lawsuit but say they are taking steps toward transparency.
What’s next for Gateway Church?
The staff reduction is expected to be completed by mid-July. Around that time, new Senior Pastor Daniel Floyd and his wife, Tammie, will begin their transition into leadership.
Elders say the church is entering a time of healing. They remain hopeful that, with prayer and accountability, the congregation can rebuild trust.
“We are walking through this season with humility and a commitment to restoration,” the elders wrote.
Content Credit | Ajibola Emmanuel
Image Credit | dallasnews.com
