In a shocking development that has reverberated through religious and political circles, Robert Morris, the founder of Gateway Church in Texas and a former spiritual adviser to President Donald Trump, has been indicted on charges of lewd acts with a child.
The allegations, which surfaced in recent days, have drawn widespread attention and condemnation, spotlighting issues of accountability within influential religious institutions.
According to NBC News, Morris faces charges stemming from alleged inappropriate conduct with a minor, with the indictment handed down by a Texas grand jury.
The outlet reported that the accusations involve “lewd acts,” though specific details of the incidents remain limited as the legal process unfolds.
Gateway Church, a megachurch boasting tens of thousands of members across multiple campuses, has long been a prominent fixture in the evangelical community, amplifying the gravity of the situation.
The Texas Tribune provided additional context, noting Morris’s high-profile role as a religious leader and his ties to political figures, including Trump.
The Tribune emphasized that the allegations contrast sharply with the public persona Morris has cultivated over decades.
Reports from other outlets, such as Protestia, indicate that whispers of misconduct have shadowed Morris for some time.
Last year, the Christian news site published a story alleging that Morris had been accused of child sexual abuse, citing a leaked memo to Gateway Church staff that described the behavior as “kissing and petting.”
While those earlier claims did not immediately result in legal action, they appear to have laid the groundwork for the current indictment, suggesting a pattern of behavior now under scrutiny by authorities.
The response from Morris and Gateway Church has been closely watched.
NBC News reported that the church has not yet issued a detailed public statement addressing the indictment, though past responses to allegations have included denials and calls for prayer.
Morris, who stepped away from active leadership at Gateway last year amid initial accusations, has similarly remained silent on the latest developments.
Legal experts anticipate that his defense will hinge on challenging the credibility of the accuser and the timeline of events, though the indictment itself suggests prosecutors have gathered sufficient evidence to move forward.
The case has sparked outrage and debate beyond the courtroom.
Posts found on X reflect a mix of disbelief, anger, and cynicism, with some users questioning how such alleged behavior could persist unchecked in a high-profile ministry.
Others have pointed to Morris’s political connections, speculating about the broader implications for evangelical leaders tied to conservative causes.
However, these social media sentiments remain inconclusive and cannot standalone as factual evidence.
As the story continues to unfold, multiple news outlets agree that the indictment represents a critical test for Gateway Church and its community.
The Texas Tribune noted that the church’s response—and its ability to maintain trust among congregants—will likely shape its future.
Meanwhile, NBC News underscored the legal stakes, pointing out that a conviction could carry severe penalties, including significant prison time.
