Bishop T.D. Jakes, senior pastor of The Potter’s House in Dallas, Texas, announced during a Sunday service on April 27 that he is handing over leadership of the megachurch to his daughter, Sarah Jakes Roberts, and son-in-law, Touré Roberts. The transition, set to be formalized later this year, comes after Jakes suffered a heart attack in November 2024 and faced a defamation lawsuit over sexual assault allegations.
Addressing congregants, Jakes, who has led the church for nearly 50 years, emphasized the need to preserve the church’s legacy. “I have seen too many men build something and stay so long that they kill what they built,” he said, citing his health scare as a catalyst for the decision. “I cannot afford to risk something happening to me and you be sheep without a shepherd.”
Jakes praised Sarah and Touré for their deep involvement in the church, noting they have been managing operations since November. “They’ve immersed themselves into the DNA of this church for years,” he said. “This elevation is not a departure but a rebirth. I will never stop preaching and will continue to minister.”
The transition, Jakes explained, will allow him to focus on broader community initiatives, including economic empowerment and addressing social challenges like the disappearing middle class and opportunity gaps. He will continue as chairman of the T.D. Jakes Group, overseeing his real estate, social impact, and foundation ventures.
As Sarah and Touré joined Jakes on stage, he embraced them, saying, “I know the crown is heavy, but if God is for you, who can be against you?” A tearful Sarah Jakes Roberts expressed her commitment to the church’s future, stating, “I believe that, collectively, we can turn this city upside down and right side up.”
The leadership change is expected to be finalized by the church’s anniversary later this year, marking a new chapter for The Potter’s House as Jakes shifts focus to his broader legacy.
