Joel Scott Osteen, born on March 5, 1963, is a well-known American businessman, lay preacher, televangelist, and author. He is affiliated with prosperity theology and has gained popularity through his weekly television services and best-selling books. Based in Houston, Texas, Joel Osteen serves as the senior pastor of Lakewood Church, a prominent religious institution established by his father.
Joel Osteen Early Life and Education:
Joel Osteen was born in Houston, Texas, as one of the six children of John Osteen and Dolores (“Dodie”) Pilgrim. His father, a former Southern Baptist minister, founded Lakewood Church in a disused feed shop, where Joel is now the senior pastor. He attended Humble High School in Texas and later studied radio and television communications at Oral Roberts University, but he did not complete his degree.
Joel Osteen Career:
Joel Osteen delivered his first sermon on January 17, 1999, and became the senior pastor of Lakewood Church on October 3, 1999. The church acquired the Compaq Center in 2003, formerly home to the NBA’s Houston Rockets and AHL’s Houston Aeros, which underwent renovation. Osteen’s weekly service TV broadcast reached millions of viewers worldwide, making him a prominent figure in the televangelism world.