Joel Osteen never thought he’d preach. His father, John, was a pastor, and he founded Lakewood Church in 1959. Joel studied radio and television communications in college and returned home after graduation to found Lakewood’s television program. He produced his father’s sermons, working behind the scenes until 1999. That year, Joel finally agreed to give a sermon after his father had suggested he preach for several years. Shortly after Joel’s first sermon, John passed away. After his father’s death, Joel began preaching regularly, and quickly became Lakewood’s new senior pastor.

Since 1999, Lakewood’s attendance has grown from 5,000 to 52,000, and Joel has gone from relative anonymity to the most recognizable televangelist in the country. He’s written seven New York Times best-selling books, and even has his own SiriusXM radio station. As his audience expanded, Osteen decided to take his message on the road, and A Night of Hope was born in 2004. Once a month, Joel and his family spread the word of God to sold out crowds in different cities throughout the country. On July 13th, they’re coming to Brooklyn.

“We receive so many letters from individuals and churches around the country inviting us to come to their cities that we began the Night of Hope events to reach out to people in a personal way and to bring them together for a night of celebration and encouragement,” Osteen told OurBKSocial. “The event at Barclays will be our 184th Night of Hope, and Victoria and I are looking forward to seeing our friends in Brooklyn.”

Joel Osteen's 'Night of Hope' Headed to Brooklyn
Joel and his mother, Dolores Pilgrim Osteen, will both speak during A Night of Hope. | Photo via @joelosteen Instagram

As far as what people can expect at the show, Osteen said, “During the two and a half hour event, Victoria shares about relationships, my mom shares about how she overcame cancer, our kids are involved in the music side, and I share a special message. It will be an experience to remember, and I believe those who come out will be encouraged, uplifted, and changed for the better.”
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He continued to say, “The people of Brooklyn go through challenges — difficult situations in relationships, finances, and health. The event at Barclays will be about uplifting people and showing them that through God, there is hope for whatever they’re going through. People need to know that whatever challenges they are facing in life, there is a God who cares for them, who is on their side, and who has a future and a hope for them. It’s my core message that God is good, that He’s for you, that you can overcome, and you can reach your dreams.”

Explaining his approach to connecting with diverse audiences, Osteen said, “I receive a lot of positive feedback from those who listen to my messages, and one thing I can tell you is that all people, regardless of their race, or how much money they have, or where they stand politically face challenges in their lives. I receive letters, emails and calls on my Sirius Radio program from every type of person you can imagine. When I speak, I don’t do so as if I am addressing a crowd or group of people. I try to speak as if I am talking to one person, any person. When we realize that we face the same challenges and decisions that most everyone else faces we can learn to rise above the issues that divide us. My general message speaks to staying in peace and being respectful, staying full of joy and staying positive. I don’t get specific about politics. My message addresses the issues that are common to all of us.”

A Night of Hope will be in Brooklyn on July 13 at the Barclays Center, with shows at 2:30 and 7:30pm.