Gateway Church Welcomes New Interim Elders Amid Leadership Changes
In a significant move, Gateway Church in Southlake, Texas, has introduced four new interim elders to its leadership team, a decision made in the wake of recent controversies involving the church’s former leader, Robert Morris. This announcement, made on January 28, 2025, comes after a period of reflection and restructuring within the church.
The new interim elders—Oscar Morales, Brad Moore, Randy McFarland, and Mark Mueller—were presented to the congregation by Tra Willbanks, one of the current elders. Willbanks emphasized the importance of this transitional phase, stating, “They have graciously accepted this role knowing the challenges we’ve experienced over the past six months.” The elders are set to serve for an initial period of six months, during which the church will assess their fit for the long term.
Willbanks also shared insights on the church’s search for a new senior pastor, revealing that they were close to selecting a candidate a few weeks prior but ultimately decided to continue the search to ensure the next leader aligns with God’s vision for Gateway Church. “This is something we want to get right, not fast,” he noted, reinforcing the church’s commitment to thoughtful leadership.
The decision to appoint interim elders follows a tumultuous period for Gateway Church, marked by an internal investigation into allegations of past misconduct involving Morris. The church had previously removed several elders who were aware of a historical child sex abuse claim against Morris but did not disclose it to the congregation. This prompted a thorough review of the church’s leadership and accountability structures.
The new interim elders bring a wealth of experience and dedication to their roles. Oscar Morales has been actively involved in the church’s worship team and is the CEO of CPAP Services, a company specializing in sleep apnea treatment. Brad Moore has served as a lead deacon and is an owner at Moore Insurance Group, while Randy McFarland has contributed to the church by leading marriage groups and assisting with children’s ministry. Mark Mueller, who has a background in children’s ministry and mission work, is also the CFO of Sower of Seeds International Ministries Inc.
The introduction of these interim elders is expected to take place during weekend services on February 8-9, providing the congregation an opportunity to meet the new leaders in person. Willbanks expressed confidence in the new elders, stating that they were recommended by both church staff and members, highlighting a collaborative approach to leadership selection.
As Gateway Church moves forward, the congregation remains hopeful for a renewed sense of purpose and direction. The leadership changes come at a critical time, as the church seeks to rebuild trust and foster a supportive environment for its members. The journey ahead may be challenging, but the commitment to spiritual integrity and community service remains steadfast.
For more updates on church leadership and community events, visit Gateway Church’s official website.
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