Pastor Joel Osteen, a native Houstonian, has committed his life to serving and helping every person, regardless of background and economic status, to achieve their fullest potential. Having started Lakewood's television outreach ministry, Joel Osteen worked side-by-side with his father, Pastor John Osteen, for 17 years, and took Lakewood's positive message of hope to over 100 million households throughout the United States.

On October 3, 1999, Joel Osteen assumed the position
of Senior Pastor of Lakewood Church. Under Pastor Joel and Victoria Osteen's leadership, Lakewood has grown
in every area of ministry. Lakewood added additional worship services in order to accommodate its growth in an auditorium that sat 7,800. Now with over 30,000 adults in weekly attendance and 3,500 children and students attending weekly programs, the church has moved into the 16,000 seat Compaq Center, former home of the Houston Rockets NBA basketball team.

In addition, Lakewood's weekly television program can now be seen in nearly 200 million households in the US and major network coverage in Canada, Australia and through out Europe. With a heart and commitment to people of all ages and backgrounds, he has seen the need to increase the staff in every area of ministry including children, youth, college and singles, young adults and senior citizens.

Lakewood Church and Pastor Osteen are focused like never before on meeting the needs of the Houston community and providing ministries and services that impact every area of life. While the commitment to the local community is strong, Lakewood's international commitment is also increasing. While supplying much needed services and materials to over 100 countries, Lakewood's television ministry increases the visibility of Houston and takes the message of hope and encouragement to millions worldwide. There is a new generation rising at Lakewood Church a generation without limits. Pastor Joel Osteen is a proven leader for this generation - a generation that believes all things are possible!