Joel Osteen

A TikTok creator called Lakewood, posing as a distressed mother seeking infant formula. An employee indicated that assistance might take several days or weeks, prompting renewed controversy over the megachurch's charitable capacity.

State of the evidence

Admitted by the person

Lakewood announced that it was repaying its approximately $4.4 million PPP loan in full following the resumption of its activities and public criticism.

State of the evidence

Documented

A plumber discovered approximately 500 envelopes containing cash and cheques concealed inside a wall in Lakewood's toilets. Police said the funds appeared to be linked to the 2014 theft.

State of the evidence

Documented

Lakewood Church received approximately $4.4 million under the Paycheck Protection Program, prompting criticism given the size of the church and the personal wealth attributed to Osteen.

State of the evidence

Documented

During flooding caused by Harvey, Lakewood was accused on social media and in the press of failing to open its vast campus immediately to displaced people. The church subsequently opened its doors as a shelter and collection centre.

State of the evidence

Documented

Lakewood Church reported the theft of hundreds of thousands of dollars in cash and cheques, along with documents relating to credit cards, from a church safe.

Role of the person profiled

Protagonist is the victim

On CNN, Osteen stated that Scripture led him to regard homosexuality as a sin and maintained his position on same-sex marriage.

State of the evidence

Documented

Osteen developed a preaching style strongly centred on optimism, success, blessings and personal improvement, frequently classified as prosperity gospel and criticised by other evangelical leaders.

State of the evidence

Documented