Joel Osteen facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Joel Osteen |
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Osteen in 2016
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| Religion | Non-denominational Christianity, Charismatic Christianity, Word of Faith |
| School | Humble High School |
| Church | Lakewood Church |
| Alma mater | Oral Roberts University |
| Personal | |
| Born | Joel Scott Osteen March 5, 1963 Houston, Texas, U.S. |
| Spouse | |
| Children | 2 |
| Parents | John Osteen (father) Dolores Pilgrim Osteen (mother) |
| Relatives | Paul Osteen (brother) |
| Religious career | |
| Post | Senior pastor (1999–present) |
Joel Scott Osteen (OH-steen; born March 5, 1963) is a well-known American pastor, speaker, and author. He is based in Houston, Texas, in the United States. Joel Osteen is famous for his weekly TV services and his many best-selling books. He is a leading figure in a type of Christian teaching called prosperity theology and the Word of Faith movement.
Contents
About Joel Osteen
Joel Osteen was born in Houston, Texas. He is one of six children of John Osteen and Dolores ("Dodie") Pilgrim. His father, John Osteen, started Lakewood Church in an old feed store. Joel Osteen is now the main pastor of this church.
He finished high school at Humble High School in 1981. After that, he went to Oral Roberts University in Tulsa, Oklahoma. There, he studied how to work in radio and television. However, he did not finish his degree.
Joel Osteen's Career
In 1982, Joel Osteen came back to Houston. He started the television program for Lakewood Church. In 1983, he became a pastor through his father's church. For 17 years, Joel produced his father's TV sermons.
In January 1999, his father passed away. Joel preached his first sermon on January 17, 1999. By October 3, he became the new senior pastor of Lakewood Church. In 2003, Lakewood Church bought the Compaq Center. This building used to be a sports arena. The church then made many changes to it.
How Joel Osteen Preaches
Joel Osteen prepares his talks carefully. He memorizes what he plans to say. He also listens to his past sermons to improve. Osteen focuses on God's goodness and living a good life. He tries to teach Bible ideas in a simple way. He often talks about the power of love and having a positive attitude.
He believes in teaching principles that help people. He wants to inspire people to live better lives. He says he focuses on hope and encouragement.
Special Events
Since 2004, Joel Osteen and his wife, Victoria, have hosted "Night of Hope" events. They also have a big yearly event called "America's Night of Hope." These events happen in the U.S. and around the world. They include Christian music and inspiring messages. Many people attend in person and watch online.
In 2018, Osteen hosted an event at Lakewood Church with rapper Kanye West. This event was called "Sunday Service." About 17,000 people attended, and many more watched online. He also held his Easter service during the COVID-19 pandemic. Singers Mariah Carey and Tyler Perry joined him for that service.
Church Incident
On February 11, 2024, an incident happened at Lakewood Church. A woman entered the church and began firing a rifle. Two police officers who were working security quickly responded. They returned fire and stopped the woman. A young child with the woman was hurt during the event. Another person present was also injured but was treated and released from the hospital.
Joel Osteen's Family Life
On April 4, 1987, Joel Osteen married Victoria Osteen. She later became a co-pastor at Lakewood Church. They have two children together. Some of his brothers and sisters, like Paul Osteen, also work in full-time ministry.
Joel Osteen and his family live in a large home in River Oaks. He has said that he does not take a salary from the church. Instead, he earns money from selling his books. The church has a yearly budget of about $70 million.
Joel Osteen's Views
Joel Osteen usually avoids talking about very sensitive topics. These include certain political issues. He has said that he believes all people are welcome in his church. He focuses on sharing positive messages. He wants to help people feel hopeful and encouraged.
In 2011, Joel Osteen shared his support for Israel.
Books and Appearances
Joel Osteen has written many popular books. These books often focus on positive thinking and faith.
Selected Books by Joel Osteen
- Your Best Life Now: 7 Steps to Living at Your Full Potential (2004)
- Become a Better You: 7 Keys to Improving Your Life Every Day (2007)
- It's Your Time : Activate Your Faith, Achieve Your Dreams, and Increase in God's Favor (2009)
- Everyday a Friday: How to Be Happier 7 Days a Week (2011)
- I Declare: 31 Promises to Speak Over Your Life (2012)
- Break Out!: 5 Keys to Go Beyond Your Barriers and Live an Extraordinary Life (2013)
- You Can You Will: 8 Undeniable Qualities of a Winner (2014)
- The Power of I Am: Two Words That Will Change Your Life Today (2015)
- Think Better, Live Better: A Victorious Life Begins in Your Mind (2016)
- Blessed in the Darkness: How All Things Are Working for Your Good (2017)
- Next Level Thinking: 10 Powerful Thoughts for a Successful and Abundant Life (2018)
- Peaceful on Purpose: The Power to Remain Calm, Strong, and Confident in Every Season (2021)
- You Are Stronger than You Think: Unleash the Power to Go Bigger, Go Bold, and Go Beyond What Limits You (2021)
- Rule Your Day: 6 Keys to Maximizing Your Success and Accelerating Your Dreams (2022)
- Your Greater is Coming: Discover the Path to Your Bigger, Better, and Brighter Future (2022)
- Speak the Blessing: Send Your Words in the Direction You Want Your Life to Go (2024)
Film and TV Appearances
Joel Osteen has appeared in a few films and TV shows, usually as himself in documentaries.
| Year | Title | Role | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2007 | Friends of God: A Road Trip with Alexandra Pelosi | Himself | Documentary |
| 2017 | The Star | Caspar | Voice role |
See also
In Spanish: Joel Osteen para niños
