Joel Osteen is the pastor of Lakewood Church, located in Texas. Services at church, which is housed in the Compaq Center, are attended by over 38,000 congregants and watched on television by millions of viewers. Lakewood Church was founded by Osteen’s father, John. For many years, Osteen was in charge of his father’s television broadcast and did not preach. When his father died in 1999, he began giving sermons at the church and soon became its senior pastor.
Osteen’s sermons are broadcast throughout the week around the United States, as well as in countries such as Canada, New Zealand and Australia. In addition to appearing on television, Osteen is also an author.
Joyce Meyer received a doctoral degree in theology from Life Christian University. Her television, called Enjoying Everyday Life, can be seen around the country and internationally in locations such as Australia, Africa, Europe and South America. Meyer has a radio show, also entitled Enjoying Everyday Life.
Meyer is the author of over 80 books that have sold millions of copies worldwide. She also schedules several conferences each year.
Meyer uses her own personal experiences to help others. She has a troubled past that includes childhood sexual abuse, an emotionally abusive marriage and a struggle with breast cancer.
Bishop T. D. Jakes is the founder and pastor of The Potter’s House, located in Dallas. He is involved in a number of nonprofit organizations, such as the Metroplex Economic Development Corporation, the Texas Offenders Reentry Initiative and the Potter’s House Center for Counseling and Behavioral Health. He is also the founder of the Clay Academy, a private Christian school for children up to the eighth grade.
Jakes has a television broadcast, called The Potter’s Touch, which airs on Saturdays and Sundays. He has also made numerous television appearances on shows such as the Dr. Phil Show and the Oprah Winfrey Show. Jakes is the author of over 40 books.