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

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. 

It is easier for a camel to go through the eye of a needle, than for a flood victim to enter into Joel Osteen’s church.

— Harold Itzkowitz (@HaroldItz) August 29, 2017

Houston’s @indivisible_usa is acquainted with @JoelOsteen‘s Lakewood Church. They took these pics about an hour ago w/ commentary. pic.twitter.com/YTWrD9UG1z

— Charles Clymer️‍ (@cmclymer) August 28, 2017

Your bio says your doors are always open. Why not open them to those in need right now?

— Michael J. Piehuta (@Iamtherealpiman) August 29, 2017

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

Yo Joel how about putting up a few folks at your little house !! WWJD ? pic.twitter.com/jYTvSvZORB

— John Shipman (@john_ship67) August 28, 2017

If Joel Osteen’s church is flooded, perhaps he could open up his house…or at least his guest house or pool house. pic.twitter.com/a4Xa0TZYHo

— Angela Lee Morabito (@Bear2theRight) August 29, 2017

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.”