Disgraced Pastor Robert Morris Shown with Black Eye in New Sex Offender Registry Photo

POLICY WIRE — Southlake, Texas — A recently released image of Robert Morris, the former leader of Gateway Church, has sparked renewed attention as it shows him with a noticeable black eye on the Texas sex offender registry.

Morris, who founded one of the nation’s largest megachurches, was found guilty in October 2025 of indecent conduct with a child after being accused of sexually assaulting a young girl in Oklahoma more than 40 years ago. The 65-year-old was photographed with a prominent bruise around his right eye, which has raised questions about his recent health and well-being.

According to his attorney, Bill Mateja, Morris suffered the injury after collapsing in his garage while picking up an object. He hit a car door and then fell onto the concrete floor. Doctors confirmed he had broken three facial bones. Mateja suggested the incident could have been linked to taking blood pressure medication on an empty stomach. Despite the injury, medical staff said Morris is otherwise in good condition.

Morris led Gateway Church for 24 years before resigning in 2024 amid allegations that he sexually abused Cindy Clemshire starting when she was just 12 years old. The abuse reportedly occurred at her family’s home in Oklahoma while he was traveling as a preacher. Although Clemshire reported the abuse in 1987, charges were not filed until decades later. In 2025, Morris pleaded guilty to five counts and received a six-month jail sentence under a plea deal.

Clemshire, now 55, stated that she felt relief when Morris admitted guilt and served time. After his release in March, she emphasized the importance of holding him accountable. Morris is currently serving probation at his $1.5 million lakefront home in Palo Pinto County, Texas. During this period, he must report to a probation officer, avoid alcohol, firearms, and contact with other convicted offenders.

Reporting by Policy-Wire (PW)