Lakewood Church Resumes In-Person Services Following Shooting
In a remarkable display of resilience, Lakewood Church in Houston reopened its doors for in-person services a mere week after a harrowing incident involving gunfire within its premises. The tragic event unfolded when Genesee Moreno, armed with an AR-15 style rifle, entered the megachurch and opened fire, resulting in her untimely demise at the hands of two off-duty officers. The dreadful incident also left her 7-year-old son, Samuel Moreno, critically injured after sustaining a gunshot wound to the head, as well as an innocent bystander who was struck in the leg.
Despite the somber backdrop of the recent violence, Pastor Joel Osteen and the congregation gathered for a special service focused on healing and unity. Reflecting on the ordeal, Pastor Osteen expressed gratitude for the absence of the term “mass shooting” in describing the event, attributing it to divine intervention. The service was further characterized by Victoria Osteen’s poignant words about reclaiming a sense of ownership and safety within the sacred space of the church.
Amidst the echoes of tragedy, Pastor Osteen highlighted the miraculous acts that transpired during the fateful Sunday afternoon, emphasizing the heroic actions of the officer who neutralized the threat posed by Moreno. The congregation, including devoted members like Danyelle and Demyia Judie, found solace in their unwavering faith and commitment to the vision of Lakewood Church, dispelling any lingering fears with a sense of collective support and resilience.
As the community grapples with the aftermath of the shooting, Pastor Osteen reiterated the church’s unwavering commitment to healing and restoration, extending prayers and support to all those affected by the traumatic events. Despite the ongoing critical condition of Samuel Moreno and the outreach efforts made by the church to his family, the long road to recovery and reconciliation lies ahead for both the congregation and the wider community.
In a gesture of transparency and accountability, Houston Police Chief Troy Finner announced plans to release bodycam footage of the shooting in adherence to departmental policy, shedding light on the events that unfolded within the sacred walls of Lakewood Church. The meticulous review of the footage underscores the commitment of law enforcement to thorough investigation and disclosure, ensuring a comprehensive understanding of the incident for all parties involved.
