Pastor accused of failing to open megachurch for victims of Hurricane Harvey
A Texas pastor has faced a growing online backlash after being accused of not opening the doors of his megachurch to help victims of Hurricane Harvey.
Joel Osteen, a senior pastor at the 16,000-capacity Christian Lakewood Church in Houston, has been criticised for not offering to shelter flooding victims.
“Lots of people online are wondering why @JoelOsteen hasn't opened his 16,000 seat megachurch in Houston to people,” wrote one.
Joel Osteen has a HUGE church in Houston that would make a great shelter. pic.twitter.com/byqHxXrHQn
— Brasilmagic (@Brasilmagic) August 28, 2017
@JoelOsteen if you were a real Christian, you'd be opening your doors to your displaced neighbors.
— FAB24 (@Francesabolton) August 28, 2017
How are you guys helping the storm victims in Texas right now?
— Ken Reid (@KennethWReid) August 28, 2017
Joel Osteen, as a Pastor you have a huge obligation to show the love of Christ at this very moment.
OPEN THE DOORS. #HoustonStrong— Pastor Greg Locke (@pastorlocke) August 28, 2017
Houston's Joel Osteen has a net worth over $50m and a church that holds 16,800 but this is all he's offering. pic.twitter.com/rmhdWK6ZAO
— Mark Elliott (@markmobility) August 28, 2017
The church initially said it was “inaccessible due to severe flooding”, however photos shared on social media showed no flood damage and suggested it could be reached.
Houston's @indivisible_usa is acquainted with @JoelOsteen's Lakewood Church. They took these pics about an hour ago w/ commentary. pic.twitter.com/YTWrD9UG1z
— Charles Clymer��️�� (@cmclymer) August 28, 2017
Just offer shelter and a dry place for those who need you and want to know you care. .@JoelOsteen those who can't get here still need you! pic.twitter.com/MdHAHWGprR
— Sean Salisbury (@SeanUnfiltered) August 28, 2017
Pastor Osteen responded to the criticism, insisting: “We have never closed our doors. We will continue to be a distribution centre for those in need.
“We are prepared to house people once shelters reach capacity.
“Lakewood will be value to the community in the aftermath of this storm in helping out fellow citizens rebuild their lives.”
New statement from @JoelOsteen and Lakewood Church in regards to Hurricane Harvey backlash pic.twitter.com/KLMNYysc6s
— Anastasia (@AnastasiaElyseW) August 29, 2017
He also tweeted:
Victoria & I are praying for everyone affected by Hurricane Harvey. Please join us as we pray for the safety of our Texas friends & family.
— Joel Osteen (@JoelOsteen) August 26, 2017
Jesus promises us peace that passes understanding. That’s peace when it doesn’t make sense.
— Joel Osteen (@JoelOsteen) August 28, 2017
Our hearts break as we see the damage and destruction in our city. Please join us in helping Houston recover. Visit https://t.co/jXMX5VB3qSpic.twitter.com/00HtzOmeQL
— Joel Osteen (@JoelOsteen) August 28, 2017
A spokesperson for the church told the Chron.com the church was inaccessible due to surrounding flood water.
“It’s not our unwillingness, it’s just practicality. It’s been a safety issue for us,” said Donald Iloff said. “Lakewood Church has a heart for this city.”
The church also posted online: “We want to let you know that our hearts are with each of you and your families during this difficult time.
“We are praying for you and we are praying for our city, and for all of those affected by the devastating flooding and rains caused by Hurricane Harvey. We love you and we love this city. And we want to help.”
Since the online backlash, the church is now reportedly preparing to open its doors, with photos of dozens of air mattresses inside the church being posted online.
A source at Lakewood Church just told me they're planning to open their doors to Houston's homeless and displaced. Finally. #JoelOsteen
— Charles Clymer��️�� (@cmclymer) August 29, 2017
Lakewood Church apparently bought countless air mattresses and are prepping to open their doors. Took a while but good news.#JoelOsteenpic.twitter.com/MYXf1HqAbF
— Charles Clymer��️�� (@cmclymer) August 29, 2017
Some 30,000 residents in Houston were expected to be left temporarily homeless following the historic flooding.
Hurricane Harvey hits Texas, in pictures