Gateway Church Welcomes New Interim Elders Amid Leadership Transition
In a significant move following a turbulent period, Gateway Church in Southlake, Texas, has appointed four interim elders to its leadership. This decision comes months after the church removed multiple elders aware of a past child sex abuse claim against its former leader, Robert Morris, without informing the congregation.
The announcement regarding the new interim elders was communicated to church members through an unlisted YouTube video on January 28. In the video, Tra Willbanks, a current elder at the megachurch, shared insights into the ongoing search for a new senior pastor, stating, “I thought we were close to finding our senior pastor a few weeks ago. Ultimately, it didn’t work [out], and that’s OK. I’m not discouraged by that at all because I want — and I know you do too — this person to be who the Lord has for Gateway, and we’re working through a process of some potential candidates right now.”
He further emphasized the church’s commitment to finding the right individual, saying, “You might get tired of me saying this, but this is something we want to get right, not fast. And we can say with confidence that Gateway will continue to have a senior pastor who casts vision for our church and that that vision will be affirmed by the elders.”
The newly appointed interim elders—Oscar Morales, Brad Moore, Randy McFarland, and Mark Mueller—are set to serve for an initial six-month period. If deemed suitable, they will continue their service. Willbanks explained the rationale, “They have agreed to serve on an interim basis for six months to make sure it’s a fit for both parties. At the end of that six months they will continue in their service as elders.” This approach, while not typical for Gateway, is seen as prudent given the circumstances.
Each of the new elders brings a unique background to their role. Mueller, who has been active in various church activities, serves as the chief financial officer at Sower of Seeds International Ministries Inc. Morales, president and CEO of CPAP Services, also contributes to the worship team. Moore, connected to the Frisco campus, is a lead deacon and owns Moore Insurance Group. McFarland participates at the main Southlake campus, aiding in marriage and children’s ministries.
The introduction of these interim elders comes after an in-depth investigation into historical allegations against Morris, who resigned from the church amidst these claims. These serious allegations involved the sexual abuse of Cindy Clemishire for over four years starting in 1982, when she was 12. Morris confessed to “inappropriate sexual behavior with a young lady” but was eventually restored to ministry after repentance.
The interim elders are anticipated to be formally introduced to the congregation during services on February 8-9. As the church navigates this transition, the community remains hopeful for stability and renewed leadership.
This article was originally written by www.christianpost.com
