Bishop T.D. Jakes Steps Down As Pastor, Announces Transition in Leadership at The Potter’s House

DALLAS, TX — A heartbreaking moment for the congregation and beyond the Potter House in Dallas, Bishop T.D. Jakes, the founding senior pastor of The Potter’s House, has announced his intention to step back from his leadership role, paving the way for a new generation of ministry. This transition marks a transformational chapter for the iconic megachurch, which has grown to over 30,000 members since its inception in 1996.

During a powerful service on Sunday, Jakes revealed plans to elevate his daughter, Sarah Jakes Roberts, and her husband, Touré Roberts, to the positions of senior pastors. Both have been integral to the church, having served as assistant pastors since 2023 and officially relocating to Dallas in 2022. The Roberts’ new roles are slated to commence later this year, symbolizing a generational shift that aligns with the church’s mission moving forward.

“For nearly 50 years, I’ve had the honor of connecting with and serving the local and global community as a pastor, global faith leader and unwavering truth teller,” Jakes expressed to the congregation. He shared the urgency he feels in addressing contemporary challenges, including economic disparities and social unrest, asserting that this pivotal moment requires a focus on innovative ministry strategies.

“This elevation is not a departure but a rebirth. I will never stop preaching and will continue to minister,” Jakes emphasized. “Leadership is not static; it is dynamic. It demands the courage to evolve.” His words encapsulated a vision of continuity intertwined with change, highlighting the responsibility to maintain the church’s legacy while adapting to the needs of future generations.

Jakes, who will retain the position of Chairman of the Board and serve as a spiritual overseer for The Potter’s House, is also set to pursue new ventures, including a partnership with iHeartMedia to launch a series of podcast shows. He remains committed to his broader mission through the T.D. Jakes Group, which encompasses T.D. Jakes Real Estate Ventures, T.D. Jakes Enterprises, and the T.D. Jakes Foundation.

Touré Roberts expressed a shared commitment to uphold the church’s core values while navigating future challenges. “We are committed to building a ministry that carries the heart of Bishop Jakes into a future that is both faithful and forward-thinking,” he stated. Sarah Jakes Roberts echoed this sentiment, emphasizing the call to lead with “compassion, clarity, and courage.”

This leadership transition follows a health scare for Jakes, who experienced a heart attack while delivering a sermon last year. It served as a wake-up call, not only for the bishop but also for the congregation, reinforcing the importance of resilience and preparation for the future.

As Bishop Jakes steps back from his primary role, the foundation he built at The Potter’s House remains as strong as ever. With a new lead team in place, there is a palpable sense of anticipation for how they will adapt and expand the ministry in innovative ways. The evolution of The Potter’s House signals not just a change in leadership, but an ongoing commitment to dynamic spiritual growth, community engagement, and the pursuit of a more equitable society.

As the church looks ahead, the legacy of Bishop T.D. Jakes will undoubtedly serve as a guiding light, inspiring both new generations of leaders and the countless lives they touch.