Bishop T.D. Jakes steps down from megachurch, hands leadership to daughter and son-in-law

Bishop T.D. Jakes announced he will be stepping down and handing leadership of the Potter's House Church, a nondenominational Christian church, to his daughter and her husband.

On Sunday, Jakes, 67, announced that his daughter, Sarah Jakes Roberts, and son-in-law, Touré Roberts, will take over the church, which he founded in 1996.

He made the announcement during an emotional sermon, where he asked the congregation to welcome their new pastors with open arms.

"This is legacy," Jakes said. "Not because they're kin, but because they're the kind. They've immersed themselves into the DNA of this church for years."

The pastor said that while he is stepping down from his current role, he wants to continue doing work with the community.

As you [co-pastor elect,] I'm grateful, I'm honored," Jakes daughter said as she was called on to the stage. "As your daughter, I'm so happy you're going to get some rest."

Jakes suffered heart attack on stage

The change comes after Jakes suffered from a heart attack on stage in November.

In a video posted online, Jakes is seen pausing during his hour-long sermon, before shaking suddenly as other church members gathered around him, according to USA TODAY's previous reporting. He was then rushed to an intensive care unit.

A week after the "slight health incident," he spoke to his congregation remotely and told them that they were "looking at a miracle."

More news: What to expect from the conclave that will choose Pope Francis' successor

Who is Bishop T.D. Jakes?

Jakes has been in ministry for 47 years, and has advised many high-profile individuals, including the "last three presidents," according to the bio on his website. The bio does not specifically name which presidents, but says Jakes was a featured speaker at Barack Obama's inauguration in 2009.

Jakes is also a best-selling author and award-winning filmmaker. With "minimal resources," he founded the Potter's House in 1996, according to the bio.

His wife is Serita Jakes, and the couple has been married for over 40 years. They have five children together.

The bishop has made headlines after being a longtime spiritual mentor to Sean "Diddy" Combs, the record executive who was indicted for sex trafficking and other federal charges.

Julia is a trending reporter for USA TODAY. Connect with her on LinkedIn,Instagram and TikTok: @juliamariegz, or email her at jgomez@gannett.com

Jonathan Limehouse covers breaking and trending news for USA TODAY. Reach him at JLimehouse@gannett.com.