The Pastor of Lakewood Church, Houston, Texas, Joel Osteen has reacted to a backlash that he closed the church doors to the over 30,000 victims of the #HurrricaneHarvey – which has also left ten people dead.

Osteen came under fire after some of the victims visited the church for shelter but were rejected, and the church instead directed them to other shelters, saying they would organise a fund raising for the victims.

Reacting on Twitter, Osteen wrote, “Victoria and I care deeply about our fellow Houstonians. Lakewood’s doors are open and we are receiving anyone who needs shelter.

“God gives us grace for every challenge. Stay strong and know that God has you in the palm of His hand!”

Victoria and I care deeply about our fellow Houstonians. Lakewood’s doors are open and we are receiving anyone who needs shelter.

— Joel Osteen (@JoelOsteen) August 29, 2017

God gives us grace for every challenge. Stay strong and know that God has you in the palm of His hand!

— Joel Osteen (@JoelOsteen) August 29, 2017

Also, Lakewood Church wrote, “Lakewood is receiving people who need shelter. We are also coordinating with the city as a collection site for distribution.

“Lakewood is also collecting diapers, baby formula, baby food and other supplies. Please bring these items to Lakewood at Circle Drive.

“Lakewood is receiving people who need shelter. We are also receiving supplies such as baby food, baby formula and other shelter needs.”

Lakewood is receiving people who need shelter. We are also coordinating with the city as a collection site for distribution.

— Lakewood Church (@lakewoodchurch) August 29, 2017

Lakewood is also collecting diapers, baby formula, baby food and other supplies. Please bring these items to Lakewood at Circle Drive

— Lakewood Church (@lakewoodchurch) August 29, 2017

Lakewood is receiving people who need shelter. We are also receiving supplies such as baby food, baby formula and other shelter needs.

— Lakewood Church (@lakewoodchurch) August 29, 2017

New statement from @JoelOsteen and Lakewood Church in regards to Hurricane Harvey backlash pic.twitter.com/KLMNYysc6s

— Anastasia (@AnastasiaElyseW) August 29, 2017