Defending Osteen

IN REGARD to "Be happy," by Jason Byassee (July 12), I would like to put in a word in defense of Joel Osteen and the Lakewood Church.

Houston faced a great trial during the 2001 tropical storm Allison and resultant flood. Thousands flocked to that church for safe haven. It was located in the middle of a very hard-hit area with many living in poverty. Television showed people receiving various kinds of aid there. Many churches did nothing or very little very late and in a self-centered way.

Louise Kennon

Bellaire, Tex.

I urge Osteen's critics to consider that while his ministry may be simplistic, even problematic, it serves a God-ordained purpose. Maybe Osteen is doing exactly what God has called him to do with the talents and gifts so graciously bestowed upon him. Osteen is meeting a very important need in the everyday lives of everyday Christians. Do we not need uplifting and encouragement so that we may complete our own God-called vocations?

Angel Copas

Huntsville, Ala.

Having attended Lakewood Church when John Osteen was the pastor and now watching Joel Osteen every Sunday, I found myself asking why someone who was the pastor of an 80-member church might not wonder if his theology might bear a little more scrutiny before criticizing the pastor of a 30,000-member church, especially since one of his own members seems to attend rather reluctantly.

The secret of Osteen's success is that his messages are eminently practical and are addressed to every listener. I think I understand why Christians are leaving the mainline churches.

Carl Smith

Spokane, Wash.

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