Bishop T.D. Jakes Steps Down as Senior Pastor of The Potter’s House

In an emotional announcement during Sunday service at The Potter’s House Church in Dallas on April 27, Bishop T.D. Jakes revealed that he is stepping down from his role as senior pastor. His daughter, Sarah Jakes Roberts, and her husband, Touré Roberts, will now lead the congregation as senior pastors.

The decision comes months after Bishop Jakes suffered a serious health scare while preaching in November 2024 — an incident he later confirmed during a March appearance on NBC’s Today Show was a “massive heart attack.”

The announcement marks a major transition for one of America’s most influential religious leaders, who has pastored The Potter’s House since founding it in 1996.

According to NBC DFW, Jakes told his congregation, “You have been faithful to God, and you have been faithful to me. ” His voice was filled with emotion. “And I’m so grateful.”

A Shift Toward a Broader Mission

Although stepping away from day-to-day pastoral duties, Jakes emphasized that he is not retiring from ministry altogether. In a press release following his announcement, the 66-year-old preacher outlined his vision to pivot toward addressing broader social and economic issues, particularly the shrinking middle class, rising social unrest, and closing opportunity gaps.

“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 said.

“This pivotal moment calls me to focus on building a legacy of economic empowerment, serving as a bridge between community, culture, and corporate alliances to help position our nation for a stronger future.”

Rather than viewing the leadership handover as an ending, Jakes framed it as a “rebirth” for The Potter’s House. He expressed deep confidence that Pastor Sarah and Pastor Touré Roberts will guide the church into a new era with innovation, purpose, and spiritual strength.

“This elevation is not a departure but a rebirth,” Jakes said. “I will never stop preaching and will continue to minister. This moment isn’t an ending; it’s an expansion. We are not only passing a mantle, we are multiplying impact. Leadership is not static; it is dynamic. It demands the courage to evolve.”