After a torrent of social media shaming, Houston-based preacher Joel Osteen is finally allowing Hurricane Harvey victims to seek refuge in his mega-church. Instead of dissipating the controversy over his church’s initial response, however, this move is only raising further questions.
Under normal circumstances, the tweets issued by the Lakewood Church and Osteen himself would be unremarkable, given that religious institutions are traditionally known for being charitable during times of hardship.
Lakewood is receiving people who need shelter. We are also coordinating with the city as a collection site for distribution.
— Lakewood Church (@lakewoodchurch) August 29, 2017
Lakewood is receiving people who need shelter. We are also receiving supplies such as baby food, baby formula and other shelter needs.
— Lakewood Church (@lakewoodchurch) August 29, 2017
Lakewood is also collecting diapers, baby formula, baby food and other supplies. Please bring these items to Lakewood at Circle Drive
— Lakewood Church (@lakewoodchurch) August 29, 2017
Victoria and I care deeply about our fellow Houstonians. Lakewood’s doors are open and we are receiving anyone who needs shelter.
— Joel Osteen (@JoelOsteen) August 29, 2017
The problem, as critics have been quick to point out, is that Osteen’s church initially went on Facebook and gave the impression that it was unable to assist victims due to the flooding.
“Dear Houstonians! Lakewood Church is inaccessible due to severe flooding!” the Lakewood Church page announced Sunday. “We want to help make sure you are safe. Please see the list below for safe shelters around our city, and please share this with those in need!”
Later, in a statement quoted by ABC News and the Atlanta Journal-Constitution, Osteen said, “We have never closed our doors. We will continue to be a distribution center to those in need. We are prepared to house people once shelters reach capacity. Lakewood will be a value to the community in the aftermath of this storm.”
Perhaps the church was saying it was “inaccessible” in order to keep people off the streets for their safety. But social media users who visited the church found that the Lakewood Church wasn’t looking much like Noah’s flood.
Either way, his response continued to raise questions on social media.
Huh. Couple days ago @JoelOsteen reps said the church were flooded and couldn't take anyone in. #Harvey #Houston https://t.co/FluIINYIEO
— Lauren McGaughy (@lmcgaughy) August 29, 2017
Of course, Joel Osteen had to chime in on the ongoing controversy, albeit in a maddeningly vague fashion:
God gives us grace for every challenge. Stay strong and know that God has you in the palm of His hand!
— Joel Osteen (@JoelOsteen) August 29, 2017
Heaven help us.
