Israel Houghton UPDATE: He’s STILL on Staff at Osteen Church

Jojo Pada, who is Houghton’s personal publicist, informed us – via a statement – that the gospel musician and minister has NOT been put on “indefinite leave” by the church.

However, it is true that at this time Houghton is not associated with the church … because he’s taking a “personal sabbatical of his own choosing.”

See Pada’s statement below:

“Israel has been on staff at Lakewood for 15 years since 2001 (not 2011) and actually remains officially on staff.  He was never suspended, nor was he put on an indefinite leave but is on a personal sabbatical of his choosing. We are happy to answer any questions, and have reps at Lakewood church that will support our claim.”

So, how did Radar Online get it wrong? Well, we’ve learned exclusively that the site was given wrong information by an unnamed intern at the church who spoke without authority.

We’ve reached out to Don Iloff, the communications Director of Communication for Lakewood for a comment, but as of this posting there’s been no response.