Disclaimer**
The views and opinions expressed in this article are based on publicly available information and sources cited within the content. All individuals mentioned in connection with allegations of sexual misconduct are considered innocent until proven guilty in a court of law. This article is intended for informational and discussion purposes only, and does not serve as a legal or factual determination of guilt or innocence. Cocktail Hour with Catrice does not endorse or condone defamatory, slanderous, or libelous statements about any person, organization, or institution. Readers are encouraged to verify any statements or claims independently and approach this sensitive topic with an open mind and respect for all parties involved.
Over the past few years, an unsettling trend has emerged in Texas: a rising number of pastors resigning or being removed from their ministry positions due to sexual misconduct. As sexual scandals continue to unfold, the ripple effects are shaking the foundation of religious institutions and their communities. Although misconduct among pastors is not a new phenomenon, the number of resignations and removals in 2024 is cause for concern. This article aims to explore the stories of several Texas pastors who have recently faced this fate and discuss the broader issue of sexual discipline—or lack thereof—among clergy.
For years, on my YouTube channel, Cocktail Hour with Catrice, I have been vocal about the rising cases of pastors embroiled in sexual misconduct. Instead of the problem being addressed or alleviated, it only appears to be getting worse. The issue seems rooted in a lack of sexual discipline among pastors, evidenced by the ongoing scandals that continue to emerge.
The Notable Cases of 2024
- Pastor Tony Evans – Oak Cliff Bible Fellowship, Dallas
Pastor Tony Evans, a widely respected figure within evangelical circles, shocked many when he announced his resignation in June 2024 due to allegations of sexual misconduct. Evans had been the senior pastor of Oak Cliff Bible Fellowship for decades, but the scandal shook the trust of his congregation. While the details surrounding his case remain somewhat private, his resignation was a significant blow to the church community. Many followers had considered him a beacon of spiritual guidance. Evans, who had long espoused messages of strong moral leadership, found himself caught in the controversy, leaving a legacy tarnished by personal failings .
- Pastor Robert Morris – Gateway Church, Southlake
Another high-profile pastor, Robert Morris of Gateway Church in Southlake, Texas, faced similar accusations this year. Morris, known for his large following and influence within Christian media, was named in multiple lawsuits alleging inappropriate conduct. The church, once hailed as a model of growth and prosperity, is now embroiled in legal battles, leading to Morris’ resignation. His departure sent shockwaves through the Southlake community, as many were left grappling with the hypocrisy of a man who preached values of purity while secretly engaging in morally questionable behavior.
- Pastor Tony Karoda – Stonebriar Community Church, Frisco
Pastor Tony Karoda, leading Stonebriar Community Church, also resigned after admitting to misconduct. In a bizarre turn of events, Karoda cited “Lucifer’s influence” when addressing his congregation, attempting to silence them in a sermon that raised more questions than answers. This excuse, while shocking, did little to calm the congregation, who demanded accountability and transparency. His resignation came shortly after this odd sermon, bringing yet another Texas church into the headlines.
- Pastor Byron Copeland – Cross Timbers Church, Argyle Copeland, the Executive Pastor at Cross Timbers Church, resigned shortly after the lead pastor’s departure earlier this year. Allegations surfaced of inappropriate interactions with multiple women in the congregation. His resignation further deepened the crisis of leadership at the church. For the members of Cross Timbers, trust had been broken, and healing will likely take years, if not decades .
- Pastor Josiah Anthony – Cross Timbers Church, Argyle
Another pastor from Cross Timbers Church, Josiah Anthony, followed Copeland in resigning. His sudden departure after facing accusations further tarnished the church’s reputation. His involvement in the scandal has left Cross Timbers in turmoil, with its congregation reeling from the loss of two key leaders in quick succession .
- Pastor Steven Lawson – Trinity Bible Church, Denton
Pastor Steven Lawson’s removal from Trinity Bible Church was yet another high-profile case this year. Lawson, once a trusted voice in theological circles, was accused of multiple instances of sexual misconduct. His removal from the church marks a significant blow to the institution, as many viewed him as an intellectual and moral authority in the region .
- Pastor Ronald Goines – Koinonia Church, Arlington
Goines, a prominent figure in Arlington’s religious community, was accused of sexual assault earlier this year. The allegations shocked not only the church but the entire city. Goines’ fall from grace has sent a sobering message about the dangers of unchecked power within religious leadership .
- Pastor Tony Cammota – Stonebriar Community Church, Frisco
Following his conviction, Pastor Tony Cammota was labeled a “sexually violent predator” by prosecutors. His involvement in grooming young members of the congregation for his own desires deeply hurt the community. This case was one of the most egregious examples of abuse in recent Texas history, highlighting the extreme consequences when sexual misconduct goes unchecked.
- Youth Pastor Luke Cunningham – Lakeside Baptist Church
Cunningham’s resignation from Lakeside Baptist Church, Lubbock, added to the string of scandals in the Texas religious community. As a youth pastor, Cunningham was accused of misconduct involving underage members of the congregation. His predatory behavior toward those who trusted him with their spiritual growth and development left long-lasting trauma among his victims .
- Pastor Terren Dames – North Dallas Community Bible Fellowship, Plano
In one of the most recent cases, Pastor Terren Dames of North Dallas Community Bible Fellowship was arrested for soliciting a prostitute. While his actions did not involve a church member, they still violated the moral and ethical codes expected of a spiritual leader. Dames’ arrest further contributed to the growing distrust in clergy within the Texas Christian community .
The Broader Issue of Sexual Discipline in the Church
What we’re witnessing in Texas is part of a broader issue of sexual misconduct in religious institutions, particularly among pastors who hold positions of power. According to statistics from Not In Our Church, incidents of clergy sexual misconduct have steadily risen across the country. In 2023 alone, over 3,000 cases of sexual abuse involving clergy members were reported in the U.S., many of which involved inappropriate relationships, grooming, or abuse of power .
As I have discussed on my YouTube channel, “Cocktail Hour with Catrice,” this disturbing trend reflects a larger crisis of moral integrity among religious leaders. Instead of addressing these issues head-on, many churches have chosen to protect their image, sweeping cases of misconduct under the rug until it’s too late. It’s time for a serious conversation about the lack of sexual discipline in the church and the need for stronger accountability structures.
A Call for Change
The influx of resignations among pastors in Texas in 2024 is both tragic and a wake-up call. The church must reevaluate its leadership selection, training, and accountability measures. Pastors are meant to be shepherds, guiding their congregations with wisdom and moral integrity. When they fall short, the consequences are devastating, not only for the victims but for the faith communities that rely on them.
Ultimately, we must ask ourselves how to address this pervasive issue. Perhaps it begins with greater transparency and a commitment to breaking the silence around these scandals. As long as we allow misconduct to go unchallenged, we risk the continued erosion of trust in our spiritual leaders.
