Joel Scott Osteen was born on March 5, 1963, in Houston, Texas, making him 61 years old as of 2025. Growing up in the heart of Texas, Joel’s roots were deeply planted in the religious community. His father, John Osteen, was a former Southern Baptist pastor who founded Lakewood Church in Houston in 1959. His mother, Dolores Pilgrim Osteen, was a supportive figure in the family. Together, they created a strong religious foundation that influenced Joel from an early age.
As the youngest of six children, Joel was surrounded by a family of faith, which played a significant role in his upbringing. Despite this, Joel was not immediately drawn to the ministry and spent much of his early years exploring other interests, including television production. But little did anyone know that his future would eventually lead him to take over the reins of his father’s successful ministry.
Education and Early Interests
Joel attended Humble High School in Texas, where he completed his secondary education. During this time, he was not particularly interested in following in his father’s footsteps in ministry. However, he was drawn to the world of television and media. After high school, he enrolled in Oral Roberts University in Tulsa, Oklahoma, where he studied radio and television communications. His time at the university gave him a deeper understanding of media, something that would later play a pivotal role in his career.
Joel, however, did not complete his degree at Oral Roberts University. After just one year, he decided to return to Houston to assist his father with the growing Lakewood Church. This decision marked the beginning of Joel’s path into ministry, though he did not initially foresee himself becoming the senior pastor of the church. He was more interested in working behind the scenes and contributing to the church’s television ministry.
Career Beginnings
In 1982, Joel began working behind the scenes at Lakewood Church. He took on the role of producing television programs for the church. Joel was responsible for overseeing the production of the ministry’s television show, which was gaining popularity. He worked tirelessly to ensure the broadcast was of the highest quality, but his behind-the-scenes work often went unnoticed by the public.
In many ways, his television work helped prepare him for the larger role he would eventually assume. Joel’s involvement in media expanded, and he helped the church’s television presence grow rapidly. His contribution to the church’s media ministry was pivotal in helping Lakewood Church reach a wider audience.
Transition to Preaching
The turning point in Joel’s career came in 1992 when he was ordained as a minister. Though he was not initially enthusiastic about becoming a preacher, his father’s sudden passing in 1999 forced Joel to take on a leadership role. His father, John Osteen, passed away unexpectedly, leaving behind a thriving church with a large congregation and a growing global media presence.
Joel stepped into the role of senior pastor of Lakewood Church at the time of his father’s death. It was a massive responsibility, and many wondered whether Joel, a relatively unknown figure outside the church, could live up to his father’s legacy. But Joel quickly proved his capabilities, leveraging his media skills and personal charm to grow the church into one of the largest and most influential in the United States.
Expansion of Lakewood Church
Under Joel’s leadership, Lakewood Church experienced exponential growth. One of the most significant changes was the church’s move to a larger venue. In 2005, the church relocated from its original 8,000-seat facility to the former Compaq Center, a sports arena that seated more than 16,000 people. This marked a new era for the church, as it expanded its reach both locally and globally.
Lakewood Church’s growth also came through its television ministry, which reached millions of viewers worldwide. Joel’s unique approach to preaching – characterized by an optimistic, motivational style – resonated with people across the globe. His messages, focused on positivity, hope, and personal growth, struck a chord with a wide audience.
The church’s weekly television broadcast, which Joel oversaw, reached more than 100 countries and became the highest-rated inspirational program on television. Through his use of media and technology, Joel Osteen’s ministry extended far beyond the walls of Lakewood Church, impacting people from all walks of life.
Publications and Media Presence
As his popularity grew, so did Joel’s presence in the world of literature and publishing. In 2004, he published his first book, “Your Best Life Now: 7 Steps to Living at Your Full Potential,” which quickly became a bestseller. The book, which focused on overcoming obstacles and living a life full of purpose and joy, resonated with millions of readers. It offered practical advice on how to live a better life and is one of his most well-known works.
Joel continued to write and publish successful books, including “Become a Better You: 7 Keys to Improving Your Life Every Day” (2007), “Every Day a Friday: How to Be Happier 7 Days a Week” (2011), and “Think Better, Live Better: A Victorious Life Begins in Your Mind” (2016). These books have sold millions of copies worldwide and have helped cement Joel’s place as one of the leading figures in Christian literature and self-help.
His books have not only been successful but have also broadened his influence. In addition to his books, Joel’s television appearances, online presence, and social media accounts have made him one of the most recognized faces in Christian ministry today.
Personal Life
Joel married Victoria Iloff in 1987. Victoria, like Joel, plays an active role in the ministry. She serves as the co-pastor of Lakewood Church and is often seen alongside her husband during services, conferences, and media broadcasts. Together, they have two children, Jonathan and Alexandra, both of whom are involved in various charitable efforts and family businesses.
Victoria’s involvement in the church has helped to balance Joel’s high-profile role. As a couple, they have worked hand-in-hand to guide the church’s growth, promote community service, and contribute to charitable causes. Despite Joel’s high visibility, the Osteen family has managed to maintain a sense of privacy and personal connection with their congregants and supporters.
Philanthropy and Community Involvement
Joel Osteen’s ministry is not just limited to preaching and publishing. Under his leadership, Lakewood Church has been heavily involved in philanthropic activities. One of the most notable examples of the church’s charitable work was its response to the devastation caused by Hurricane Harvey in 2017. Lakewood Church became a shelter for thousands of people affected by the storm, offering food, clothing, and supplies to those in need.
In addition to emergency relief efforts, Joel’s church runs various programs aimed at serving the community, including feeding the hungry, providing educational resources, and supporting troubled youth. The church’s efforts are a reflection of Joel’s belief that faith should be a force for good in the world, not just confined to the spiritual realm.
Recent Developments
As of 2025, Joel continues to lead Lakewood Church, and his influence continues to grow. In recent years, he has embraced digital platforms more than ever. Through social media, online streaming, and digital content, he has reached an even wider audience. His sermons, books, and social media updates inspire millions to live lives of positivity, self-empowerment, and faith.
Though Joel has faced occasional criticism, particularly for his teachings about prosperity and the “Word of Faith” doctrine, his popularity has not waned. Many people have found comfort in his messages, which focus on the power of positive thinking and the belief that God has a unique purpose for everyone. His approach has attracted a diverse following, from devout Christians to those simply seeking personal growth and motivation.
Conclusion
At 61 years old,joel osteen age has had a remarkable journey. From his humble beginnings in Houston to leading one of the largest megachurches in the world, Joel’s life has been one of service, media innovation, and personal transformation. He has inspired millions through his positive messages, books, and television broadcasts. As his influence continues to spread, it is clear that Joel Osteen’s legacy will have a lasting impact on the Christian faith and the lives of people worldwide. Whether through his sermons, philanthropic efforts, or personal example, Joel Osteen’s message of hope and faith continues to touch the hearts of millions around the globe.
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