Bishop T.D. Jakes, founder and longtime senior pastor of The Potter’s House in Dallas, announced on April 27, 2025, that he will step down from his day-to-day pastoral role effective July 2025. He has appointed his daughter, Sarah Jakes Roberts, and her husband, Touré Roberts, as the new senior pastors. Bishop Jakes—who launched the megachurch in 1996—will continue as chairman of the board and spiritual overseer. Citing the massive heart attack he suffered in November 2024 as a catalyst for this planned transition, he emphasized that this change has been in careful preparation for several years.

Details of the Announcement

On April 27, 2025, during the 10:00 AM service at The Potter’s House, Bishop Jakes addressed the congregation and livestream audience. He reflected on nearly three decades of ministry growth—from the original 350–seat sanctuary in 1996 to the current 16,000-seat global campus network. He expressed gratitude for the Holy Spirit’s guidance and the faithful leadership team that has supported the church’s expansion into television, publishing, and community outreach programs.

“After prayerful consideration and much planning, I believe the time is right to hand the daily pastoral reins to the next generation,” Bishop Jakes said. “Sarah and Touré have demonstrated vision, compassion, and spiritual wisdom that position them well to lead our congregation forward.”

New Leadership

Sarah Jakes Roberts

Background: Best-selling author, speaker, and host of the “Woman Evolve” podcast.
Experience: Co-pastored several satellite Potter’s House campuses since 2015; led the church’s young adult and women’s ministries.

Touré Roberts

Background: Renowned author, speaker, and counselor; co-founder of the You Are Next ministry.
Experience: Overseen men’s discipleship initiatives and community development partnerships under The Potter’s House umbrella since 2017.

Reason for Transition

Bishop Jakes disclosed that a “massive heart attack” in November 2024 prompted him to reevaluate his daily workload and health priorities. Although he has fully recovered, he stated that sharing responsibilities will ensure sustained leadership strength and allow him to focus on strategic vision, global initiatives, and his role as board chairman.

“My recovery reminded me that ministry longevity requires wise stewardship of one’s health,” he explained. “I’m confident Sarah and Touré will shepherd our flock with excellence.”

Transition Timeline

July 1, 2025: Official transfer of daily senior-pastor duties to Sarah Jakes Roberts and Touré Roberts.
July – December 2025: Overlap period during which Bishop Jakes will mentor the new senior pastors in strategic planning and organizational governance.
January 2026 onward: Bishop Jakes continues as spiritual overseer and board chairman; Sarah and Touré lead all regular services, programming, and pastoral care.

Quotes from Leadership

Sarah Jakes Roberts: “I’m honored to carry forward my father’s legacy and to serve the people of The Potter’s House. Together with Touré, we will remain committed to transformative teaching and community impact.”

Touré Roberts: “This is a historic moment for our family and our church. We look forward to building on the strong foundation Bishop Jakes has laid.”

Looking Ahead

Under the new leadership model, The Potter’s House plans to expand its global digital ministry footprint, launch new outreach programs targeting mental health and financial literacy and also strengthen partnerships with local schools and non-profits in Dallas.

Bishop Jakes affirmed that while his role changes, his passion for the church’s mission “to heal the brokenhearted and empower the downtrodden” remains steadfast.