One of the most famous church leaders in Texas is stepping down as the leader of his megachurch. Bishop T.D. Jakes, who founded The Potter’s House in Dallas in 1996, informed members Sunday that his daughter Sarah Jakes Roberts and son-in-law Touré Roberts will assume senior pastor roles.
“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 in a statement Sunday. “As I enter my 50th year in the public spotlight, I recognize the urgent need to address more challenges of our time, particularly the looming threat of a disappearing middle class, social unrest and closing opportunity gaps.”
While Jakes is stepping down from day-to-day leadership, the 67-year-old pastor will stay Chairman of the Board and “spiritual overseer” of The Potter’s House. He’ll also remain chairman of T.D. Jakes Group, which oversees his many ventures including real estate and a nonprofit foundation. Jakes also noted that he will continue to minister, and he’s starting a podcast through iHeartMedia.
“This moment isn’t an ending, it’s an expansion,” Jakes said. “We are not only passing a mantle we are multiplying impact. Leadership is not static, it is dynamic. It demands the courage to evolve.”
Back in November, Jakes suffered what he called “a massive heart attack” while preaching on stage at The Potter’s House, a 30,000-member megachurch. Jakes revealed details of the incident on TODAY in March.
“I didn’t really realize what was happening to me onstage until I got to the hospital in an ambulance and fussing that it happened onstage, by the way, because I didn’t want it to happen.” Jakes said on TODAY.
Jakes, who has delivered sermons for former President Barack Obama, preached at Joel Osteen’s Lakewood Church and has conversed with Oprah about faith, has recently been surrounded by allegations of sexual assault lodged against him by two brothers. Jakes claims he is being smeared and filed a defamation suit against Duane Youngblood, a former pastor.
Plus, Jakes has fought allegations regarding his past dealings with hip-hop mogul Sean “Diddy” Combs, along with allegations that the pastor took part in Combs’ sex parties. Jakes has denied these accusations and claims it’s misinformation spread by critics.”