In a historic announcement, Bishop T.D. Jakes revealed Sunday morning that Pastors Touré Roberts and Sarah Jakes Roberts will become the new senior pastors of The Potter’s House, the globally recognized megachurch based in Dallas, Texas. The transition will not happen immediately but is set to take place later in 2025. Bishop Jakes, who founded The Potter’s House in 1996 and has led it for nearly 30 years, will be stepping away from daily pastoral duties, while continuing to serve as Chairman of the Board and the spiritual overseer of the church.

Founded on the principles of faith, service, and humanitarian outreach, The Potter’s House has grown into a 30,000-member congregation under Jakes' leadership. Beyond the weekly sermons, the church's initiatives have extended globally, offering health programs, financial empowerment workshops, educational services, and offender re-entry programs. Jakes’ impact has transcended the religious sphere, reaching the political and social arenas. He has advised several U.S. Presidents and notably spoke at President Barack Obama’s inauguration.

Addressing the congregation during the announcement, Bishop Jakes reflected on his nearly 50-year career as a pastor and faith leader. He shared that as he enters his 50th year in the public spotlight, he feels called to shift focus towards broader societal challenges such as economic disparity, social unrest, and the disappearing middle class. His vision is to create a lasting legacy of empowerment by bridging the gap between communities, culture, and corporations.

Jakes emphasized that the elevation of Pastors Touré and Sarah Jakes Roberts is not a sign of departure but an evolution. "This elevation is not a departure but a rebirth. 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," said Bishop Jakes. The announcement follows a serious health incident in November 2024, when Bishop Jakes suffered a massive heart attack during a sermon. Reflecting on this health scare, he stated, "Now there are some other things I'm assigned to do, here and outside. But I cannot afford, especially after November, to risk something happening to me and you be sheep without a shepherd."

Pastors Touré and Sarah Jakes Roberts, both deeply respected voices within the faith community, expressed their commitment to carrying forward Bishop Jakes’ vision. Pastor Touré stated, "We are committed to building a ministry that carries the heart of Bishop Jakes into a future that is both faithful and forward-thinking." Pastor Sarah added, "This is not just a call to serve. It’s a mandate to lead with compassion, clarity, and courage." The husband-and-wife team are no strangers to leadership. Sarah Jakes Roberts, Bishop Jakes' daughter, has established herself as a bestselling author, motivational speaker, and influential voice for a new generation of believers. Touré Roberts is recognized for his pastoral leadership and commitment to empowering individuals through faith and personal development. Together, they bring a unique blend of experience, passion, and innovative thinking to The Potter’s House’s next chapter.

A New Chapter for a Global Ministry

The Potter’s House under Bishop Jakes has not only been a place of worship but also a catalyst for social and economic change, with initiatives targeting underserved communities both in the U.S. and abroad. As the church transitions leadership to Pastors Touré and Sarah Jakes Roberts, there is a collective sense of anticipation and hope for a future that remains deeply rooted in service, spiritual growth, and societal impact.

This leadership transition symbolizes more than just a change of roles; it marks a generational shift and the start of a new era for The Potter’s House. Bishop T.D. Jakes’ vision for multiplying impact rather than simply passing a mantle reflects his understanding of modern ministry's evolving demands. With the Roberts at the helm, the church aims to continue expanding its reach and influence, fostering a community that thrives spiritually, economically, and socially. While Bishop Jakes steps back from daily duties, his influence will continue to shape the direction of The Potter’s House. His legacy of faith, leadership, and service will live on through the next generation, ensuring that The Potter’s House remains a beacon of hope and transformation for decades to come.