Bishop T.D. Jakes, founder of the 30,000-member megachurch The Potter’s House, has announced he is stepping down as senior pastor.
His daughter, Sarah Jakes Roberts, and her husband, Touré Roberts, will take over leadership of the Dallas-based church.
Jakes, who turns 68 in June, has led the church and global faith community for nearly 50 years.
On Sunday, he formally presented the couple to the congregation, receiving a long standing ovation.
Fighting back tears, Jakes spent 30 minutes outlining the transition process and its spiritual significance. Quoting Romans 8, he encouraged the couple with, “If God is for you, who can be against you?”
Touré and Sarah Jakes Roberts, who moved from Los Angeles to Dallas in 2022, became assistant pastors in 2023. They called the leadership handover a carefully planned journey, designed to meet the needs of both the local church and its global community.
Sarah Jakes Roberts, a bestselling author and founder of Woman Evolve, and Touré Roberts, founder of ONE, A Potter’s House Church, shared their commitment to building a ministry that honors Bishop Jakes’ legacy.
“This is not just a call to serve. It’s a mandate to lead with compassion, clarity, and courage,” said Pastor Sarah. Touré added, “We are not only passing a mantle but multiplying impact.”
Founded in 1996, The Potter’s House is among the world’s most influential ministries. Jakes will remain board chairman and spiritual overseer. Despite his step back from daily pastoral duties, he will continue leading the T.D. Jakes Group, which includes his real estate ventures, enterprises, and foundation.
This leadership change follows a season of transition for Jakes, including health concerns and public controversies. He emphasized the need to tackle key social issues, such as the shrinking middle class and opportunity gaps.
Looking ahead, Jakes plans to host the Good Soil Forum for entrepreneurs in June with Oprah Winfrey and launch a new podcast series titled My Next Chapter.
