At least two people were injured and a suspect was killed in a shooting at Lakewood Church in Houston, Texas, on Sunday afternoon.
According to reports newsweek, the shooting took place shortly before the 2 p.m. Spanish service. The suspect, a woman in her early to mid-30s, entered the church with a 5-year-old boy and a long rifle.
Police Chief Troy Finner said two off-duty police officers on guard duty shot and killed the suspect after he began firing. Two people were injured in the aftermath of the shooting, and a 5-year-old boy who arrived with the woman was also taken to hospital in critical condition.
It is unclear what kind of relationship existed between the boy and the woman.
Joel Osteen, pastor of Lakewood Church, responded to the shooting on social media.
“Our community is devastated by today’s events and we are grateful for the swift action of law enforcement. We hope God’s healing hand touches the lives of everyone involved and provides comfort during this difficult time.” I hope you do,” Osteen said. statement Posted on X (formerly Twitter).
“In the face of such darkness, we must hold fast to our faith and remember that evil will not prevail. God will guide us through our darkest times. “Sho,” he continued. “Together we will overcome this tragedy, remaining steadfast in our resolve to love and support each other. At times like these, our faith is tested, but also strengthened. We don’t always understand why things like this happen, but we know God is in control,” Osteen said, adding, “We continue to pray for healing and peace. ” he concluded his statement.
Osteen said at a news conference Sunday that the situation would have been much worse had the shooting happened around 11 a.m. Due to the large number of participants, services will be provided.
“We went into a Spanish service between services,” he said. “So if anything good happened…she didn’t get in there and do more damage. So we thank God for that.”
Image credit: ©Getty Images / Joe Radle / staff
Milton Quintanilla is a freelance writer and content creator. He is a contributor to Christian Headlines and host of the For Your Soul Podcast, a podcast dedicated to sound doctrine and Biblical truth. He holds a Master of Divinity degree from Alliance Theological Seminary.
