They do not want anything to do with him.
Daystar Television Network, headquartered in Texas and renowned as one of the world’s largest Christian television networks, has made the decision to remove all programming featuring Robert Morris, founder of Gateway Church. This action follows Morris’s resignation amid allegations of sexual abuse dating back to the 1980s, when Cindy Clemishire reported that Morris began abusing her at the age of 12.
In a statement released on Tuesday, Daystar expressed deep sadness over the allegations against Morris and emphasized their commitment to biblical values. They condemned the alleged actions and announced the removal of Morris’s programs from their broadcasting schedule. Previously, Morris’s ministry was prominently featured on Daystar throughout the week.
Clemishire, now 54, recounted that the abuse lasted for several years, beginning when Morris was a guest in her family’s home. Despite Morris’s later admission to “inappropriate sexual behavior” and subsequent steps of repentance and counseling, Clemishire insisted that she was a child at the time of the abuse, contradicting claims by Gateway Church leaders.
In response to the allegations, Gateway Church elders confirmed Morris’s resignation and acknowledged the situation, though they stated they were not informed of the abuse involving a minor until much later. Clemishire countered this, citing communications dating back to 2005 where the abuse was directly addressed with church leadership.
The fallout from these allegations has also extended to Morris’s involvement in public and political spheres, including his previous role on former President Donald Trump’s Evangelical Executive Advisory Board. A spokesperson for Trump’s 2024 presidential campaign confirmed that Morris no longer holds any position within the campaign.
As the situation continues to unfold, both Daystar and Gateway Church face scrutiny regarding their handling of the allegations and their responses to victims’ claims. The case underscores broader concerns within religious institutions about accountability, transparency, and the protection of vulnerable individuals.
In conclusion, the removal of Robert Morris’s programming from Daystar reflects a significant response to the allegations against him, signaling a stance against misconduct and a commitment to supporting those affected by such serious accusations.