After three decades of leading The Potter's House in Dallas, Bishop T.D. Jakes has officially announced that he is stepping down as senior pastor, passing the mantle to his daughter, Sarah Jakes Roberts, and her husband, Pastor Touré Roberts.


Standing alongside his wife, Serita Jakes, during Sunday’s service, Bishop Jakes named Sarah and Touré as the new senior pastors, marking a major leadership transition for the global ministry. The couple is set to assume their new roles beginning in July. Bishop Jakes will remain involved, continuing to serve on the church’s Board of Directors.


Overcome with emotion, Sarah Jakes Roberts addressed the congregation, saying, “As your pastor-elect, co-senior pastor-elect, I’m grateful, I’m honored  as your daughter,” she said, her voice trembling as she embraced her father.


The transition follows a health scare for Bishop Jakes, who suffered a heart attack during a morning service in November 2024 a moment that raised concerns about his ability to continue leading. Reflecting on that incident during Sunday's announcement, he shared, "I cannot afford, especially after November, to risk something happening to me, and you be sheep without a shepherd."


Following the announcement, the Jakes family released a heartfelt letter to the congregation and wider church community, stating:


"Today we shared with the world our long-held plans of purposeful evolution for The Potter's House and our global church family.


Preparing for this announcement over the past several years has allowed us to carefully balance the needs of our community worldwide with the pace of each step in our plan.


From the move of family members from Los Angeles to Dallas, to the transition from Woman, Thou Art Loosed to Woman Evolve in 2022, and the installation of new assistant pastors in 2023, this leadership evolution has been intentional and prayerfully considered.


As Pastors Touré and Sarah step into their expanded roles, the work of the T.D. Jakes Group  focused on job creation, community investment, and empowering future generations  will also accelerate, ensuring a brighter future for our communities nationwide.


Together, we will meet the economic, societal, and spiritual needs of this moment and pave the way for generations to come."


This leadership handover signifies a new chapter for The Potter's House, one rooted in continuity, faith, and a shared commitment to uplifting communities both spiritually and practically.


Watch the announcement video below.