A former member of Gateway Church in Texas has claimed she was expelled and escorted off the premises by armed guards for criticising the church’s handling of child sex abuse allegations against its founder, Robert Morris.

In an interview with The Christian Post, Valentina Hansen, 47, from Grapevine claimed she had her membership and volunteer roles terminated on 6th September 2024, following her public critique of the church’s transparency and accountability.

Hansen revealed how, despite prior engagements with church elders Tra Willbanks and Lorena Valle to address these concerns, her persistent inquiries led to the revocation of her church membership.

In a statement, Gateway Church cited her actions as sowing "discord and conflict", referencing Titus 3:10 as justification for their decision.

On attempting to return to the church, Hansen was allegedly met by armed security personnel and police officers, a move she said was deeply embarrassing given her longstanding connection to the church community.

Gateway Church asserts that Hansen's persistent challenges against church leadership compelled them to revoke her membership.

They wish her well in finding a new spiritual home but stand by their decision based on previous disruptive behavior noted in Hansen's history with other churches.