Fort Worth, Texas, February 7, 2026
Pastor Landon Schott of Mercy Culture Church recently visited former Gateway Church founder Robert Morris in jail, claiming God’s forgiveness for him. Morris, who pleaded guilty to child sexual abuse charges, is serving a suspended sentence and will register as a sex offender upon release. This visit by Schott has elicited mixed reactions within the community, with discussions surrounding forgiveness overshadowed by concerns for victims. The incident has significant implications for Gateway Church and raises questions about accountability in religious settings.
Fort Worth, Texas
Mercy Culture Church Pastor Landon Schott visited former Gateway Church founder Robert Morris in jail, declaring that God has forgiven him.
On February 3, 2026, Pastor Schott shared a photo outside the Osage County Jail in Oklahoma, where Morris is serving a six-month sentence for child sexual abuse charges. Schott expressed gratitude for Morris’s influence on his life and emphasized that the story of grace continues. Morris pleaded guilty in October 2025 to charges related to the sexual abuse of a 12-year-old girl in the 1980s. He is scheduled for release in early April and will be required to register as a sex offender. The case has significantly impacted Gateway Church, leading to lawsuits, resignations, and a decline in membership. Schott, who interned at Gateway before founding Mercy Culture Church in 2019, did not respond to requests for further comment. The visit has sparked mixed reactions, with some supporting Schott’s message of forgiveness, while others, including the victim, have expressed disappointment and concern over the public nature of the visit.
Background on Robert Morris
Robert Morris founded Gateway Church in Southlake, Texas, in 2000, growing it into a megachurch with multiple campuses and a large congregation. In June 2024, Morris resigned after allegations of sexual abuse surfaced. In March 2025, he was indicted on five counts of lewd or indecent acts with a child. In October 2025, he pleaded guilty to all charges and was sentenced to 10 years in prison, with all but six months suspended. After serving his sentence, Morris will be on probation for the remainder of his term and must register as a sex offender.
Reactions to Schott’s Visit
The visit by Pastor Schott has elicited diverse responses. Supporters commend the message of forgiveness and redemption, while critics question the appropriateness of publicly endorsing a convicted sex offender. The victim, Cindy Clemishire, has expressed disappointment over the public nature of the visit and emphasized the importance of speaking out against abuse.
Mercy Culture Church’s Position
Mercy Culture Church, led by Pastor Schott, has been known for its bold and sometimes controversial stances. The church has expanded its influence in conservative circles and has been involved in various initiatives, including plans to establish a congregation near the U.S. Supreme Court and expansion into other cities.
Legal and Community Impact
The case against Morris has had a profound impact on the local community and the broader religious landscape. It has prompted discussions on accountability, forgiveness, and the handling of sexual abuse allegations within religious institutions.
Key Features of the Article
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Event | Pastor Landon Schott’s visit to Robert Morris in jail, declaring God’s forgiveness. |
| Charges | Robert Morris pleaded guilty to five counts of lewd or indecent acts with a child. |
| Sentence | Morris was sentenced to 10 years in prison, with all but six months suspended, and will be on probation after serving his sentence. |
| Community Reaction | Mixed reactions, with some supporting the message of forgiveness and others questioning the appropriateness of the visit. |
| Mercy Culture Church’s Position | The church emphasizes themes of forgiveness and redemption, aligning with its bold and sometimes controversial stances. |
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