As we write, Houston staple Joel Osteen is preparing to give the invocation to swear in Governor Rick Perry for his second term. This seems odd to us, since Osteen, in contrast to leaders of many mega-churches, generally avoids involvement in politics. It’s also a strange match-up, especially considering how Perry’s Christian beliefs may not be as motivational and uplifting as Osteen’s. — Julia Youssefnia
This article appears in Jan 11-17, 2007.
