Joel Osteen, born March 5, 1963, in Houston, is an American Christian minister, writer, politician and entrepreneur who leads Lakewood Church. His televised messages are seen by more than 10 million viewers each week in the United States and by millions more across 100 nations. Osteen studied at Humble High School and Oral Roberts University before taking over the pulpit his father built. In 2006, chruchreport.com named him the Most Influential Christian in America.
Key facts
- Born: 5 March 1963
- Birthplace: Houston
- Country: United States
- Occupation: Christian minister; writer; politician; entrepreneur
- Education: Oral Roberts University; Humble High School
Family and background
Osteen is married to Victoria Osteen, and the couple have two children, Jonathan, born April 20, 1995, and Alexandra, born November 9, 1998. His mother, Dolores “Dodie” Osteen, co-founded Lakewood Church with his father John Osteen and died on July 30, 2025, at the age of ninety-one.
Writing and influence
Osteen’s second book, Become a Better You, was released in October 2007 with a first printing of four million copies and topped the New York Times Best Sellers List. The reach of his broadcast ministry, with weekly audiences above 10 million in the United States alone, has made him one of the most widely viewed religious figures in the country.
Criticism
Duke Divinity professor Kate Bowler, who has written on prosperity preachers, has said Osteen’s ministry offers a message of individualism without a deep social vision. His response to Hurricane Harvey drew particular scrutiny: in a Sunday sermon following the storm, he told parishioners that survivors should not have a “poor old me mentality.”
Did you know
- Osteen faced criticism for owning a Ferrari sports car reported to cost more than $300,000, in addition to a $10.5 million mansion. (news.yahoo.com)
- Lakewood’s original building, built by John Osteen in 1987, was outgrown within five years of Joel taking over, leading to the 2005 move to the Compaq Center. (notablebiographies.com)
- Lakewood Church’s annual revenues were once estimated at $60 million, though exact figures are not disclosed since the church is technically family-run. (notablebiographies.com)
Data sources
Data updated: 2026-11-12