Lakewood is, as Pastor Joel describes it, a place ...

Lakewood is, as Pastor Joel describes it, a place where they make you feel at home. It's a great home church, though I never thought this would be possible given how huge it is. There's a sense of intimacy that only the anointing could accomplish in such a setting. Pastors Joel and Victoria, the entire Osteen family including spouses, have a legacy that has become a huge blessing to this world, raised up for such a time as this. The opportunities to get involved are myriad and many. You cannot beat the comfort and beauty of the auditorium with it's amazing sound system. Many small groups meet, too many to count. Very few churches preach the true grace message in America, but Pastors Joel and Victoria do, as do Mama Dodie and Israel Houghton. Joel is always right on. His preaching contains many scriptures. One could easily not notice this. He understands the mission and the message of Jesus and the context of Bible passages. He is an activator, an encourager, and his messages will take you higher in your walk and life with Christ. Victoria is, too.

I've never before seen a church that I could recommend to anyone of any nationality or age. I've been to churches that were very alive and for-the-under-35. All ages are served here, from the very wee young to those magnificently full of days. People of all backgrounds from all parts of the world worship here. Women and men preach here. Yet there is unity! Sure you see people at all stages of growth, but that's what a church should be. There's a lot of teaching on what living the Christian life means, it keeps people on track with each other, as our Lord desired.

BTW if you watch online, you should try to visit. The sense of the Presence of God here is exponentially more powerful. You're literally drenched in the Spirit of God at every service, regardless of who is preaching. Wonderful guest speakers too. I used to be disappointed when Joel didn't preach on Sunday but now I trust that they have appointed someone almost as good when there's a guest.

Parking is like parking at a concert. Plenty of signage to direct you to the parking garage areas that the church uses and shares with the Doubletree next door. Be sure you remember where you parked as it can be a challenge to find your car after the service. I've spent 15 minutes looking for mine a couple of times. It's worth it.