Gateway Church Disputes Robert Morris Retirement Claims

Robert Morris, former founder and senior pastor of Gateway Church, resigned in 2024 after being indicted for child sexual abuse dating back to the 1980s. Morris is seeking over $1 million in deferred compensation, annual retirement benefits between $600,000 and $800,000, and rights to intellectual property from his published works. Gateway Church is contesting these demands, arguing that Morris's resignation and indictment disqualify him from the benefits and that some claims are not supported by written contracts. The church asserts Morris bypassed required mediation before arbitration and is asking a Tarrant County court to block arbitration and award attorneys' fees. The case has fueled public scrutiny, with Gateway emphasizing transparency and accountability as the community deals with the fallout. The trial on the criminal charges remains pending.