Joel Osteen The world-renowned speaker and pastor of Lakewood Church wasn't always preaching
in the awe-inspiring auditorium the church now calls home.
19 years ago, the church embarked on a transformative mission to turn the compact center, a sports
arena with a basketball pass, into a haven for thousands seeking faith and community.
However, the journey wasn't without its challenges.
Underneath those arena bleachers were service areas, locker rooms, and a far cry from the
spaces needed for a thriving church community.
Lakewood had dreams, but they needed more.
Their dreams faced a significant roadblock when the bids came in for the renovation,
a staggering $100 million.
The initial $11.5 million lease for 60 years was a far cry from what was needed.
A daunting financial reality set in.
When Pastor Joel Osteen approached a longtime bank for support, the response was disheartening.
Doubt loomed large with the bank expressing skepticism about Lakewood's ability to raise
the necessary funds.
It was a tough blow.
I discourage it first until I let it go in one ear and out the other.
I thought, God, our bank is not our source.
You are our source.
Yet in the face of adversity, Lakewood Church found an unexpected ally in Bank of America.
With no knowledge of the church's financial situation, the bank presented a check for
$25 million, a pivotal moment that shifted the course of Lakewood's journey.
They've never seen our financials.
They had a check for $25 million that they said we could borrow.
I thought...
We've back a lot of memories of the faithfulness of God.
So, I saw that $25 million and I said, y'all, we'll let it borrow $25 million and you'll
let it borrow $100 million.
They said we'll do it.
Bank of America loaned us $100 million.
Armed with newfound financial support, Lakewood Church began building momentum.
From the renovations to the expansion plans, the community rallied together, fueled by
a shared vision and a collective belief in the power of faith.
As we fast forward to December 31st of this last year, Lakewood Church had a monumental
announcement to make.
Through the faithful giving of its members, the church proudly declared the payoff of
the $100 million loan.
As of December 31st of last year, we have officially paid off the $100 million loan.
A debt-free triumph that stood as a testament to resilience, community support, and unwavering
faith.
The isn't just Lakewood Church's story, it's a celebration of the incredible community
that stood by its side.
The journey from a basketball arena to a thriving church serves as an inspiration to us all.
A reminder that challenges can be overcome with determination, unity, and a sprinkle
of unexpected blessings.