Sam Houston State University did not immediately respond to McClatchy News’ request for comment on March 15.

Savala began sexually abusing the victim in 2017, according to the lawsuit, though it does not say when the victim began going to the home. The abuse continued through 2022, becoming “worse and worse” over the years, according to court documents.

The lawsuit alleges that the church failed to protect the victims from Savala even though they knew of his history.

Savala’s History of Abuse

Savala has been part of Chi Alpha since 1980, according to court documents.

In 1995, he became a pastor at Clover Pass Community Church in Alaska, where he met Eli Stewart and Eli Gautreaux.

Eventually, male members of his youth group came forward alleging Savala sexually abused them between 1995 and 1997 while he was a pastor in Alaska, according to court documents.

He was indicted on 11 counts of sexual abuse in 2012 but was only convicted of one, according to the lawsuit. He served 90 days in prison and was required to register as a sex offender annually.

Stewart and Gautreaux encouraged people to send letters of support in favor of a light sentencing for Savala during his 2012 case, according to court records.

The victim in the recent lawsuit later attended worship led by Stewart and Gautreaux in connection with the Chi Alpha chapter at Sam Houston State University, according to the lawsuit. Savala was often touted as a “prophet” by the two worship leaders, the lawsuit said.

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