End of an Era: Bishop T.D. Jakes Bows Out as Sarah Jakes Roberts Takes the Role of Senior Pastor.

End of an Era: Bishop T.D. Jakes Bows Out as Sarah Jakes Roberts Takes the Role of Senior Pastor.

Today marks a monumental shift in the legacy of Bishop T.D. Jakes, as posted on The Potter’s House website and announced during a historic church service on Sunday.

Bishop Jakes, the founder of The Potter’s House—a renowned megachurch in Dallas, Texas—has officially stepped down as senior pastor, passing the leadership mantle to his daughter, Sarah Jakes Roberts, and her husband, Touré Roberts.

This transition is not merely a change in leadership; it signifies a profound moment in Black spiritual leadership, generational empowerment, and the preservation of cultural and spiritual influence.

According to his biography, Bishop T.D. Jakes has been a towering figure in modern Christian ministry for over forty years.

He began his pastoral journey in 1982 in a small storefront church in West Virginia before founding The Potter’s House in 1996.

Under his guidance, the church grew into a megachurch with tens of thousands of members, serving as a beacon of spiritual and social influence.

His leadership has shaped generations, and now, his decision to step back marks the beginning of a new era.

While Sarah and Touré take on the role of senior pastors, Bishop Jakes remains deeply connected to his ministry as Chairman of the Board.

He emphasized that stepping down is not an end, but a rebirth—a continuation of his vision to address broader societal challenges such as economic empowerment, bridging opportunity gaps, and pursuing innovative initiatives through the T.D. Jakes Group.

This organization includes ventures in real estate, philanthropy, and community outreach, ensuring that his impact stretches beyond the pulpit.

The importance of this transition resonates deeply within the Black community, where spiritual leaders have historically been pillars of strength, guiding faith, social justice, education, and community building.

By entrusting Sarah Jakes Roberts with the mantle, Bishop Jakes is not only empowering women in leadership but also challenging traditional norms.

This bold move asserts that leadership transcends gender and age, focusing instead on calling, vision, and capability.

This leadership shift also comes after Bishop Jakes faced health challenges, including a heart attack last year, underscoring the importance of timing and preparation in the process.

Previously, Sarah Jakes Roberts was installed as a pastor for specialized ministries like Woman Evolve, but this new role elevates her and her husband to oversee The Potter’s House’s global operations, embracing the legacy and expanding its impact.

As Bishop Jakes hands over the reins, he described the moment as an evolution—a dynamic phase that will see Sarah and Touré guide the church into future challenges and opportunities.

The congregation, the broader faith community, and millions worldwide have witnessed this moment as both a culmination of Bishop Jakes’ leadership and a new chapter for The Potter’s House.

In his own words, Bishop Jakes affirmed that this transition was not about family legacy but divine calling, ensuring that the mantle of leadership continues with integrity, creativity, and strength.

With Sarah and Touré at the helm, The Potter’s House embarks on a bold journey, grounded in transformative faith and a commitment to uplifting communities.

As the world watches the paradigm shift in church leadership, Sarah Jakes Roberts steps into her new role, inspiring more women not just in leadership roles but also in ministry and entrepreneurship, embracing significant responsibilities around the globe.

She highlights the importance of leadership, motherhood, and the uniqueness of African women in a world where only a few have been recognized for their excellence.

Carrying the torch of leadership, love, and empowerment forward, Sarah is shaping the future of women’s leadership not just in America but across the world and for generations to come.

Sarah Jakes Roberts is a proud mom of six children, three biological and three stepchildren.

She became a mother at the young age of 14 and has credited her parents’ unwavering support for helping her raise her first child, Malachi Jakes.

Her other biological children include Makenzie Henson, whom she had with former NFL linebacker Robert Henson; their divorce was finalized in 2012.

Her youngest biological child, Ella Roberts, is the sole child she shares with her husband, Touré Roberts.

From Touré’s previous relationship, Sarah is also a loving stepmother to Ren Taylor Roberts, Teya Hunter Roberts, and Isaiah Roberts.

Together, they form a beautifully blended family that exemplifies love, resilience, unity, grace, and the ability to find inspiration in challenging times.

Sarah and Touré married in 2014, marking the start of their journey as co-pastors and partners in ministry.

They have inspired many through their ability to balance family, love, and faith, creating a legacy of strength and leadership.

Yetunde B reports for Yeyetunde’s Blog.

Images / Bishop Jakes / Sarah Jacobs Robers / Instagram.