Released on = October 31, 2006, 10:44 am

Press Release Author = Joy Ike/ Whitaker House Publishing

Industry = Media

Press Release Summary = New Kensington, Pennsylvania - October 31, 2006 - In late
2004, upon the release of his best-selling book, Your Best Life Now, Joel Osteen and
Lakewood Church were put in the media spotlight like no other Christian figure or
ministry had ever been before. Almost overnight, a man, a church, and a family
became household names all across the country. Now, two years later, author Richard
Young shares the history and ministry of the Osteen Family in his January 2007
release, The Rise of Lakewood Church and Joel Osteen.

Press Release Body = New Kensington, Pennsylvania - October 31, 2006 - In late 2004,
upon the release of his best-selling book, Your Best Life Now, Joel Osteen and
Lakewood Church were put in the media spotlight like no other Christian figure or
ministry had ever been before. Almost overnight, a man, a church, and a family
became household names all across the country. Now, two years later, author Richard
Young shares the history and ministry of the Osteen Family in his January 2007
release, The Rise of Lakewood Church and Joel Osteen.

The book shares story upon story of how faith put into action produces results that
only God can take credit for. From a profession as a Fort Worth, Texas, popcorn
salesman to a preacher of what would one day become one of the largest churches in
America, John Osteen (Joel's father) exemplified an unshakeable faith that
catapulted Lakewood's ministry to levels that he would unfortunately not live to
witness.

Joel Osteen would immediately fill his fathers shoes, expanding a ministry that had
already been founded on solid ground. In The Rise of Lakewood Church and Joel
Osteen, readers will see how Joel's experience in television prepared him for a
lifetime of ministry, a best-selling book, and a church that is now considered to be
the fifth most influential church in the United States.

The Rise of Lakewood Church and Joel Osteen not only shares on the ministry of the
Osteens but also delves into the unexplainable, supernatural stories of protection
and healing experienced by members of the Osteen family. Powerful accounts of how
God healed John's wife, Dodie, of cancer of the liver and his sister Mary of
epilepsy prove to readers that God still does miracles and honors the prayers of His
people.

Richard Young is a former educator, businessman, and pastor. He has been a writer
for over twenty years, having written two textbooks, corporate training manuals, and
collegiate self-study courses.


Web Site = http://www.whitakerhouse.com/DeskTop.aspx?page

Contact Details = For more information or to schedule an interview, contact:

Joy Ike (Publicist)
Whitaker House
1030 Hunt Valley Circle
New Kensington, PA 15068
Ph: 800.444.4484
E-mail: joy@whitakerhouse.com