Bishop T.D. Jakes Passes Pastoral Mantle to Daughter and Son-in-Law
Bishop T.D. Jakes announced Sunday he is stepping down as senior pastor of The Potter’s House, the Dallas megachurch he founded in 1996. The 67-year-old faith leader, who has led the 30,000-member congregation for nearly five decades, will pass leadership to his daughter, Pastor Sarah Jakes Roberts, and her husband, Pastor Touré Roberts. The couple was met with a standing ovation upon their introduction.
A Carefully Planned Leadership Transition
The announcement followed years of preparation. The Roberts family relocated from Los Angeles to Dallas in 2022 and became assistant pastors in 2023. In a joint statement, the couple described the transition as deliberate and prayerful. Touré Roberts emphasized continuity, saying, “We are committed to building a ministry that carries the heart of Bishop Jakes into a future that is both faithful and forward-thinking.”
Emotional Farewell and Encouraging Words
Jakes took time during the Sunday service to explain the spiritual weight of the transition. He fought back tears and cited Romans 8:31, “If God is for you, who can be against you?” The bishop also expressed confidence in the couple’s ability to evolve the ministry while maintaining its core mission.
Support and Skepticism Surround the Shift
Supporters see this as a powerful continuation of Jakes’ legacy and applaud the infusion of younger leadership. They cite Sarah’s influence as a bestselling author and media voice, and Touré’s reputation as a visionary leader. Critics, however, question whether familial succession will maintain the same influence and spiritual authority Jakes brought. Concerns over nepotism and continuity have surfaced, especially among traditionalists.
Jakes Shifts Focus to Broader Impact
Though stepping back from daily church leadership, Jakes will remain board chairman and spiritual overseer. He plans to expand his role in media, entrepreneurship, and philanthropy through the T.D. Jakes Group. Jakes aims to address societal issues like the disappearing middle class and opportunity inequality. His podcast, My Next Chapter, and the upcoming Good Soil Forum with Oprah Winfrey are part of his evolving public ministry.
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T.D. Jakes Stepping Down as Pastor of Potter’s House; Daughter & Son-in-Law Assuming Helm
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