Televangelist Joel Osteen cancelled services at his Houston megachurch Sunday and has yet to reopen its doors despite the fact that thousands of flooded-out residents are desperately seeking shelter.
The perpetually smiling pastor told followers on Twitter on Monday to lean on their faith.
Jesus promises us peace that passes understanding, he wrote. Thats peace when it doesnt make sense.
But Osteens comforting words didnt sit well with critics, who want to know why the doors to his 16,800-seat arena at his Lakewood Church near downtown Houston are closed.
You have taken so much money away from your people to live like a king, entertainment publicist Danny Deraney blasted. Its the least you could do.
Washington DC-based writer Charles Clymer tweeted pictures of Lakewood Church, which did not appear to be damaged by floods.
It doesnt make sense why youre not opening up your mega church to house Houston citizens, help me understand that. Jesus, according to Florida-based writer Emily Timbol.
While the church and its arena have not suffered any flood damage yet, ministry spokesman Donald Iloff said their property is inaccessible because of surrounding waters.
And it makes no sense to open church doors when the city and county are already treating thousands of flood victims at the nearby George R. Brown Convention Center, according to Iloff.
It has everything inside there medicine, doctors, places to sleep, Iloff said of the convention center. Its amazing what theyre doing there the make people comfortable.