Osteen ripped on social media for not opening megachurch to flooding victims

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Texas pastor Joel Osteen is facing criticism for not opening up his Houston megachurch to those seeking shelter from Hurricane Harvey.

The prominent televangelist tweeted Saturday that he and his wife were “praying for everyone affected by Hurricane Harvey.”

{mosads}But social media users quickly began questioning why Osteen hadn’t offered up the facility, which can hold about 16,000 people. 

Others began urging Osteen to open up his personal home to those fleeing the hurricane. 

Osteen’s church responded on Facebook Sunday, saying that the megachurch was “inaccessible due to severe flooding. 

In a statement obtained by ABC News Monday, Osteen said he was “prepared to house people once shelters reach capacity.” The church also released photos apparently showing standing water in parts of the facility. 

“We have never closed our doors. We will continue to be a distribution center for those in need,” the statement says.

“Lakewood will be a value to the community in the aftermath of this storm in helping our fellow citizens rebuild their lives.” 

Tags Hurricane Harvey Joel Osteen

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