Worshipers streamed into Lakewood Church on Sunday morning, the first time in eight months they’ve been able to attend in-person services because Lakewood moved its services online as the coronavirus spread.
Capacity was limited to 25 percent and masks were required but many members were excited to be back at one of the nation’s largest non-denominational Christian churches. And the pastors, Joel and Victoria Osteen, were excited to welcome them back.
“You sound good,” said Joel Osteen, after one rousing response to a prayer. “I’ve missed you for eight months.”
Houses of worship were considered essential services in Texas, much like grocery stores and gas stations, and were not required to close this spring as the coronavirus pandemic spread. But many churches closed their doors anyway, opting to go online to provide spiritual guidance. The coronavirus has infected 864,250 Texans and killed 17,518.
Church-goers were met Sunday morning by Lakewood representatives hoisting signs that said “We’re glad to see you back” and “We’re smiling behind these masks” and greeters in the lobby who said “welcome home.” Several families paused to take selfies and others celebrated when they ran into friends they hadn’t seen in months.
“We’ve been looking forward to coming back,” said Ty Jenkins, who along with his wife and daughter were among the early worshipers filing into the former Compaq Center sandwiched between West University Place and River Oaks. For the past few months, the Jenkins family has been watching services online.
The pandemic has been a boon for Lakewood whose online audience has more than doubled since March when the church had its last in-person service. It’s been averaging about 4.4 million viewers across all platforms including Facebook, YouTube, Apple TV and Roku compared to 2 million prior to the pandemic.
Many worshipers said they felt comfortable coming to in-person services after they heard about the safety precautions Lakewood initiated included limiting capacity of the 16,000-seat sanctuary to 4,000 worshipers, required masks at all times, anti-viral handrails on escalators and investments in its air infiltration system. Restrooms were upgraded with touchless faucets and soap dispensers.
“We trust Joel,” said Lala Valberas, who attended the service along with her husband Alberto.
The Osteens led a high-energy service with a Christian rock band and dancers. Joel Osteen was particularly enthusiastic when he asked the congregation to recite, along with him, declarations of faith.
Osteen told the enthusiastic congregation who stood for much of the 90-minute service that he hasn’t had anyone to recite the affirmations with him for the past eight months.
Coronavirus kept one tradition from returning too soon: There was no passing of the collection plate. Instead, the congregation was encouraged to send a check, text a payment or go online to make a contribution.
The Listenbee family was thrilled to be back in person Sunday morning and not just watching the Wednesday and Sunday services remotely. They’ve been members of Lakewood Church for three years since moving from New York.
“It’s better than being at home,” said mother Kelley Listenbee, who attended the service with her three children.
lynn.sixel@chron.com
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Osteens welcome faithful back to Lakewood Church - Houston Chronicle
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