Bishop T.D. Jakes is handing over leadership of The Potter’s House in Dallas, Texas, to his daughter, Sarah Jakes Roberts, and her husband, Pastor Touré Roberts.

Addressing the congregation on Sunday 27th April, Jakes explained that the move comes as part of a long-considered legacy transition, accelerated by his recent health scare, as reported by The Christian Post.

“I cannot afford, especially after November, to risk something happening to me and you be sheep without a shepherd,” he said, referencing the heart attack he suffered late last year.

Jakes, 67, hopes to formalise the leadership handover in time for the church’s anniversary celebrations later this year, allowing him to focus on broader community initiatives.

“There are some things I want to do in the community before I get too old to do it, and the clock is ticking," he told members.

Though stepping back from day-to-day leadership, Jakes will continue preaching occasionally and leading the T.D. Jakes Group, focusing on social impact and economic empowerment.

In a statement, he said: “This moment isn’t an ending, it’s an expansion. We are not only passing a mantle; we are multiplying impact.”