.jpg)
New Life Church in Colorado Springs has let three pastors go recently after the elder board found out about their knowledge of Pastor Robert Morris' illegal involvement with a minor.
In June 2024, Morris confessed to having an inappropriate relationship with 12-year-old Cindy Clemishire for roughly four years, starting in 1982.
The church's board of elders announced to the congregation this past Sunday that they had asked Lance Coles and Brian Newberg to step down as pastors. This is only one week after they asked the senior pastor, Brady Boyd, to leave.
The reason for each of the dismissals is because of the men's prior knowledge of Morris's involvement with Clemishire and their failure to act on it.
In 2007, the church's board was looking for a lead pastor. Coles and Newberg were on that committee and they were contacted by Clemishire's sister about the alleged abuse. At the time, they collectively chose Boyd to lead New Life.
"Brian and Lance raised some concerns about Robert Morris becoming involved with New Life. When Brady dismissed their concerns and appointed Robert Morris to be an overseer and began inviting Morris to preach, Brian and Lance had a responsibility to bring their concerns — and the reasons behind them — directly to the board of elders," the elders stated. "They did not do so then or afterward, so we likewise requested that Brian and Lance resign. They have submitted their letters of resignation and will depart after a transition period."
Related Stories:
- Gateway Church in Texas names new senior pastor after months of controversy
- Victim of Robert Morris states church knew about abuse after they denied knowledge
- Speakers pull out of speaking at Texas' Gateway Church amid Robert Morris allegations
With all three pastors having knowledge and choosing to hire Morris regardless, the board of elders have asked them to step down in leadership, but are allowing them to stay in the congregation.
"Since we first approached Brian and Lance last week, their repentant, sorrowful, and humble attitudes have been strongly evident. They have submitted to the authority of the elders and to the church. They have both expressed how deeply they regret not doing more to prevent Robert Morris from becoming involved with our church. We believe they would never intentionally do anything harmful to New Life church. They are devastated, and so are we."
The question remains as to why the three pastors didn't bring to light their involvement or knowledge when the Morris was let go last June, when this all became public knowledge.
The elders shared, "Brian and Lance have asked for and received our forgiveness. They plan to do everything they can to ensure a smooth transition of immense institutional knowledge that together comprises more than 70 years of service to the church. We hope they will remain members for many years to come, and we know they would appreciate your prayers."
In March of this year, Morris was indicted on five counts of lewd or indecent acts with a child. Morris now faces prosecution on the five charges. None of the allegations have been proven in court.