Bishop T.D. Jakes, the renowned pastor of The Potter's House in Dallas, experienced a medical emergency while delivering a sermon on Sunday. The 67-year-old Jakes was speaking to the crowd when he suddenly stopped talking, dropped his microphone, and started to tremble violently. As the live broadcast unexpectedly ended, attendees hurried to help him, telling others to "back up" and "give him space." During the webcast, a voice called on churchgoers and watchers to pray.
Bishop TD Jakes had a medical emergency during today’s service. pic.twitter.com/OSC8IlKsGm
— SoulFood66 (@BlackAndNative1) November 24, 2024
A Legacy of Leadership and Service
Jakes is among the world's most well-known religious figures. Jakes is the founder of The Potter's House, a non-denominational megachurch with more than 30,000 members. He has been in ministry for about 50 years. He was previously dubbed "America's Best Preacher" by Time Magazine, and his impact goes well beyond the pulpit.
Founded in 1996 with little funding, The Potter's House today has a variety of ministries that deal with issues including offender reentry, literacy, and homelessness. It runs campuses in Denver, Dallas, Frisco, and Fort Worth. Jakes' humanitarian endeavors also benefit communities throughout the world, from Australia to South Africa.
For Jakes, who has devoted his life to improving underprivileged communities, "extending a hand of help to the needy" continues to be a guiding concept.
Media and Entertainment Visionary
In addition to his ministry, Jakes is a television personality, award-winning filmmaker, and best-selling book. He started a daytime talk program called The T.D. Jakes program in 2016 that focused on empowerment and useful answers to common problems. His books have become best-sellers, including Destiny: Step Into Your Purpose and Instinct: The Power to Unleash Your Inborn Drive.
The romantic comedy Jumping the Broom is one example of Jakes' impact on movies. Every year, tens of thousands attend his multicultural gatherings, including MegaFest, which provide faith-based programming for people of all ages, the T.D. Jakes' Ministries website noted.
Political Advisor and Influencer
Jakes has provided advice to American presidents, including speaking at the White House Easter Prayer Breakfast in 2011 and Barack Obama's inauguration in 2009. He has given speeches at events including the Willow Creek Leadership Summit and The Aspen Institute, where he is known for his linguistic and strategic abilities. His influence on faith and leadership has been recognized on several occasions by magazines like Savoy Magazine, according to T.D. Jakes' Ministries website.
Personal Life and Partnership
For more than 35 years, Jakes and Serita Jakes have been wed. They have raised five kids together and helped one another through the difficulties of life. In addition to leading women's ministries, Serita Jakes has started a line of home décor items. Their relationship is based on mutual support and faith.
A Statement From The Potter's House of DallasNovember 24, 2024 During today’s service, Bishop T.D. Jakes experienced a slight health incident and received immediate medical attention following his powerful hour long message. Bishop Jakes is stable and under the care of medical… pic.twitter.com/QupVK29mQd
— T.D. Jakes (@BishopJakes) November 24, 2024
Jakes' supporters and congregation provided prayers and support as word of his medical situation spread.