In a shocking turn of events, Robert Morris, the senior pastor at Gateway Church in Southlake, Texas, has resigned from his position following his admission of engaging in "sexual behavior" with a child in the 1980s. The announcement was made by the board of elders at Gateway Church on Tuesday, according to a statement provided to NBC News.

The church leaders expressed their prior understanding that Morris had been involved in an extramarital relationship with a "young lady" but were unaware that it involved the abuse of a 12-year-old child. Regretfully, they admitted to not having all the information regarding the victim's age or the extent of the alleged abuse. They acknowledged the lack of awareness and expressed their remorse.

To ensure a comprehensive understanding of the allegations, Gateway Church has enlisted the services of the law firm Haynes & Boone to conduct an independent review of the situation. The church is determined to uncover the truth and take appropriate action.

Robert Morris, a prominent member of former President Donald Trump's spiritual advisory committee, had previously shared a story of a "moral failure" involving sexual sin during his ministry. However, he had never revealed the identity of the person involved, referring to them only as a "young lady."

Last week, Cindy Clemishire, now 54 years old, bravely came forward on The Wartburg Watch, a watchdog site dedicated to church accountability, alleging that Morris had sexually abused her when she was just 12 years old, starting in 1982. According to Clemishire, the abuse persisted for over four years.

Clemishire, before the announcement of Morris' resignation, expressed doubts about his potential restoration to a position of authority, stating that true repentance should include honesty rather than deception. She emphasized the gravity of the alleged crimes committed against a child.

In their statement, the Gateway Church elders acknowledged the pain caused by this situation and expressed their gratitude that it had been brought into the open. They extended their apologies to all those affected and expressed their prayers for healing for everyone involved.

The resignation of Robert Morris marks a significant development in this deeply troubling case. As Gateway Church continues to investigate the allegations, the focus remains on seeking the truth and providing support to the victim and all those impacted by this distressing revelation.