DALLAS – His sermons inspired millions of people around the world and the founding of Dallas-based megachurch Potter’s House Church after a health scare on stage Sunday night. Prayers poured in for the pastor, Bishop TD Jakes.
In a shocking moment that has now gone viral, Jakes was on stage after an hour-long sermon on Sunday when he lowered his microphone and began shaking. A crowd of people immediately rushed to surround him on stage.
In a statement shared on Facebook, the prominent pastor and author immediately sought medical attention and was reported to be in stable condition under the care of medical professionals.
“During today’s service, Bishop TD Jakes suffered a minor health incident and immediately sought medical attention after an hour of powerful messages,” the statement said. “Bishop Jakes is in stable condition and is being cared for by medical professionals. The entire Potter’s House family would like to thank you for the outpouring of love, prayers, and support from our community. Please understand and pray. Thank you for your continued support.”
Potter’s House did not say whether Jakes was hospitalized after the incident or what caused it.
Family update on Bishop TD Jakes health status
Bishop Jakes’ daughter Sarah Jakes Roberts and her husband Toure Roberts late Sunday. Both preach frequently at Potter’s House and are co-pastors of ONE | Potter’s House Church in Los Angeles posted an update on Instagram.
“Obviously today could have been a tragic day, but it wasn’t. By the mercy of God, by the grace of God, Bishop is recovering well and is undergoing treatment,” Toure-Roberts said. I am physically fit,” he said. “We’re trying to seat him. He’s a strong bishop that we know, but we can’t thank you enough for your prayers.”
“I’m so grateful that he’s already starting to improve,” Sarah Jakes Roberts said. “As we enter this holiday season, let us remind you that you need to love those near and dear to you and take time to be grateful for all the people God has given you. Masu.”
Reactions from the Dallas community and social media
More than 2,000 people commented on the church’s statement on the megachurch’s Facebook page, sharing their prayers and hopes for a speedy recovery for Jakes.
Congratulations also came from other Dallas church leaders, including Pastor Frederick Haynes of Friendship West Baptist Church.
“Bishop Jakes is a once-in-a-generation gospel giant,” Haynes said in a statement to CBS News Texas. “We are praying for him, his family, and the Potter family.”
Potter’s House is a nondenominational, multicultural church founded by Jakes in 1996. With more than 30,000 members, it consistently ranks as one of the largest and most influential churches in the United States, according to the church’s website.
Jakes also served as an advisor to former Presidents Barack Obama, Bill Clinton, and George W. Bush, and was a featured speaker at President Obama’s 2009 inauguration.
