Pastor T.D. Jakes is stepping down from his leadership role at his megachurch, The Potter’s House, after a medical incident earlier this year. The 57-year-old founder, who has led the church since 1996, announced that his daughter, Sarah Jakes Roberts, and her husband, Toure Roberts, will take over his duties.
In a statement on Sunday, Jakes explained that he wants to focus on addressing major economic challenges and serving as a bridge between the community, culture, and corporate alliances for the future of the nation. While he is stepping back from his church leadership, Jakes emphasized that he will continue his ministry work and is passing the baton to the next generation. He did not address his health directly, though his decision to step down follows a medical incident in November where he collapsed during a sermon and later underwent emergency surgery.
Despite the health setback, Jakes reassured his supporters that he’s “looking at a miracle” and will now have more time to focus on his health while still staying active in his ministry.