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Popular Televangelist Joel Osteen Delivers Sermon At Baltimore Convention Center

BALTIMORE (WJZ) -- Thousands are in downtown Baltimore to hear just one man speak -- Pastor Joel Osteen, the wildly popular preacher whose sermons are televised in 100 nations around the world.

Kai Jackson spoke to the many Marylanders he inspires.

Joel Osteen delivers messages of hope and inspiration. People at the Baltimore Convention Center were more than happy to hear it.

With his trademark smile and positive energy, Joel and Victoria Osteen make a big impression on the faithful at the Baltimore Convention Center.

"Because he's such a motivational speaker. I mean, just builds faith," said Carol Delaware, Essex.

"This is another day that the Lord has made. I'm a choose to rejoice, I'm a choose to be glad," Joel Osteen said.

Osteen is among the most popular televangelists. His home and ministry are in Houston, Texas, where he's the pastor of the non-denominational mega-church called Lakewood Church -- working as he says to bring the faithful to Christ.

His two-hour sermon on Friday night in Baltimore is called "A Night of Hope."

"I like the word that he preaches. And I like the work that he's doing in the community and also overseas with his brother in Africa," said Denise Parker, Bowie.

It can be a high-profile life, and some have questioned whether it's ethical for religious leaders to live such extravagant lifestyles.

"But people don't realize a lot of the money he gets is from the book sales that he does," said Diane Lyn, Bel Air.

Fans tell WJZ they continue to listen to Joel Osteen because of his unique ability to inspire people.

"Start the day off in faith. If you don't set the tone for the day, the enemy will set it for you," Osteen said.

Joel Osteen's broadcast ministry reaches more than 7 million people in 100 nations around the world.

Joel Osteen's church, Lakewood, has about 45,000 attendees each week.

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