Bishop T.D. Jakes to Pass the Mantle: Daughter Sarah Jakes Roberts and Son-in-Law Touré Roberts to Lead The Potter’s House
By Edrea Davis – In a historic and emotional announcement during Sunday service, Bishop T.D. Jakes revealed plans to appoint Pastors Sarah Jakes Roberts and Touré Roberts as the next senior pastors of The Potter’s House, one of the world’s largest and most influential churches. The transition, set to take place later this year, marks a carefully orchestrated generational handoff within the Dallas-based megachurch — and a new era for the global ministry Jakes founded nearly three decades ago.
“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. “As I enter my 50th year in the public spotlight, I recognize the urgent need to address more challenges of our time… This moment isn’t an ending, it’s an expansion. We are not only passing a mantle, we are multiplying impact.”
Though he will step back from day-to-day pastoral leadership, Jakes emphasized he is not retiring from ministry. He will continue to preach, provide spiritual oversight, and serve as Chairman of the Board of The Potter’s House, while expanding his work in economic empowerment, social impact, and media through the T.D. Jakes Group.
Sunday’s announcement formalized a succession plan that has been unfolding for years. In 2022, Pastors Sarah and Touré Roberts relocated from Los Angeles to Dallas to deepen their involvement with The Potter’s House. That same year, Sarah closed the chapter on the iconic Woman, Thou Art Loosed conference, launching the Woman Evolve movement that reimagined ministry for a new generation of women leaders.
In 2023, the couple was installed as assistant pastors, taking on growing leadership responsibilities within the church. Their elevation to senior pastors fulfills Jakes’ longstanding vision of continuity and innovation for The Potter’s House.
“We are committed to building a ministry that carries the heart of Bishop Jakes into a future that is both faithful and forward-thinking,” said Pastor Touré Roberts.
“This is not just a call to serve. It’s a mandate to lead with compassion, clarity, and courage,” added Pastor Sarah Jakes Roberts.
Sarah Jakes Roberts and Touré Roberts are already well-known leaders in their own right. Sarah, a New York Times bestselling author and media influencer, has connected with millions through her writing, speaking, and Woman Evolve movement. Touré, an entrepreneur and founder of ONE | A Potter’s House Church, has been recognized for bridging generational divides with a modern and inclusive approach to spiritual leadership.
Together, they represent a model of ministry rooted in tradition but responsive to contemporary culture — a vision Jakes believes is essential for the next chapter of The Potter’s House and the broader faith community.
Their appointment reflects a belief in leadership that does not simply preserve legacy, but propels it forward.
Beyond the Pulpit: Jakes’ Expanding Influence
Even as he transitions daily leadership of the church, Bishop Jakes is expanding his global impact through business, philanthropy, and media initiatives.
He remains Chairman of the T.D. Jakes Group, which oversees T.D. Jakes Enterprises, T.D. Jakes Real Estate Ventures, and the T.D. Jakes Foundation. These organizations focus on addressing critical economic issues such as workforce development, entrepreneurship, and community revitalization.
Jakes is also entering the podcast world through a new partnership with iHeartMedia. His upcoming slate of shows, beginning with My Next Chapter, will address the shifting cultural and economic landscape — offering insight, inspiration, and actionable solutions to audiences worldwide.
This June, Jakes will bring his Good Soil Forum back to Dallas, convening investors and small business owners to provide access to capital and mentorship. In August, he will curate a major global summit on Martha’s Vineyard, aiming to catalyze innovation, cross-continental collaboration, and economic empowerment among Black and minority leaders.
The Potter’s House Legacy
Founded by Bishop Jakes in 1996, The Potter’s House quickly became one of the most dynamic ministries in the United States, known for its powerful worship experiences, wide-reaching media presence, and steadfast commitment to social justice and community building. With a congregation of over 30,000 members and a global media footprint, it continues to be a model for how faith-based organizations can influence both spiritual and societal change.
As Jakes passes the senior leadership to the next generation, he is reaffirming his vision: that thriving institutions prepare their successors not merely to continue the work — but to multiply the mission.
“The future demands leaders who are ready to evolve,” Jakes said. “And it’s time.”
