TD Jakes and his wife are a power couple whose story has inspired millions around the globe. Their journey is one of faith, resilience, and unwavering commitment. From humble beginnings to becoming global influencers, they’ve built an empire rooted in spirituality and community. This article dives deep into their life, achievements, and the impact they’ve had on countless lives.
When you hear the name TD Jakes, you probably think of his powerful sermons, motivational books, or even his dynamic leadership at The Potter’s House. But what about the woman standing by his side? TD Jakes and his wife, Serita Jakes, have created a partnership that’s as inspiring as it is impactful. They’ve weathered storms, celebrated victories, and remain pillars of strength for their congregation and beyond.
This article isn’t just about TD Jakes and his wife—it’s about understanding the essence of their relationship, how they’ve navigated challenges, and the lessons we can all learn from their story. So grab a cup of coffee, get comfy, and let’s dive into this incredible tale of faith, love, and legacy.
Table of Contents:
- Biography: TD Jakes and His Wife
- Early Life and Beginnings
- The Potter's House: Building an Empire
- Family Life: A Closer Look
- Who is Serita Jakes?
- Their Impact on the World
- Challenges They’ve Faced
- The Legacy They’re Building
- Lessons We Can Learn
- Conclusion: A Journey Worth Celebrating
Biography: TD Jakes and His Wife
Let’s start with the basics. TD Jakes, whose full name is Thomas Dexter Jakes, was born on June 30, 1957, in South Charleston, West Virginia. He’s a pastor, author, and entrepreneur who rose to fame through his powerful sermons and leadership at The Potter’s House, a megachurch in Dallas, Texas. His wife, Serita Jakes, plays an equally vital role in their ministry and personal life.
Here’s a quick rundown of their biographical details:
Name | Date of Birth | Occupation | Notable Achievements |
---|---|---|---|
TD Jakes | June 30, 1957 | Pastor, Author, Entrepreneur | Founder of The Potter’s House, Bestselling Author |
Serita Jakes | December 17, 1956 | Minister, Businesswoman | Co-founder of The Potter’s House, Philanthropist |
Early Life and Beginnings
TD Jakes grew up in a small town in West Virginia, where he learned the importance of hard work and dedication from his parents. His early exposure to church life ignited a passion for ministry that would define his career. Meanwhile, Serita Jakes, born in Detroit, Michigan, also had a strong spiritual foundation, which eventually led her to meet TD in college.
Their meeting wasn’t just serendipitous—it was divinely orchestrated. Both were studying at West Virginia State University when they crossed paths, and the rest, as they say, is history. They married young but quickly proved that age doesn’t matter when it comes to building a solid foundation for life and ministry.
College Days: Where It All Began
During their college years, TD and Serita discovered their shared vision for ministry. While TD focused on theology and leadership, Serita honed her skills in business and community development. These complementary talents would later serve them well in their joint ventures.
Fun fact: TD Jakes actually started preaching in small churches while still in college, proving that he was destined for greatness from the get-go!
The Potter's House: Building an Empire
Fast forward a few years, and TD Jakes and his wife founded The Potter’s House, one of the largest and most influential churches in the world. Located in Dallas, Texas, this megachurch has become a beacon of hope for millions. Its mission? To transform lives through faith, education, and community service.
The church’s programs range from spiritual enrichment to social justice initiatives. TD and Serita lead by example, showing that ministry isn’t just about Sunday sermons—it’s about making a tangible difference in people’s lives every single day.
Key Programs at The Potter’s House
- Women of Purpose: A program empowering women spiritually and professionally.
- Men’s Ministry: Focused on mentoring and leadership development for men.
- Community Outreach: Providing food, shelter, and resources to those in need.
These programs reflect TD Jakes and his wife’s commitment to holistic ministry, addressing both the spiritual and practical needs of their congregation.
Family Life: A Closer Look
TD Jakes and his wife aren’t just leaders—they’re also parents. Together, they’ve raised five children, instilling in them the same values of faith, hard work, and compassion. Their family life is a testament to the importance of balance and prioritizing relationships amidst the demands of ministry.
One of their daughters, Tamara Jakes, has followed in their footsteps, becoming a prominent figure in her own right. She serves as the director of Women of Purpose, continuing the legacy of empowering women.
Parenting Tips from TD and Serita
When asked about parenting, TD Jakes emphasizes the importance of communication and setting boundaries. He says, “You’ve gotta talk to your kids, not at them.” Serita adds that creating a nurturing environment where children feel loved and valued is crucial.
It’s clear that TD Jakes and his wife prioritize family above all else, even with their busy schedules. Their ability to balance ministry and parenthood is something many admire and strive to emulate.
Who is Serita Jakes?
Serita Jakes is more than just TD’s wife—she’s a force to be reckoned with in her own right. As a minister, businesswoman, and philanthropist, she’s made significant contributions to The Potter’s House and beyond. Her work focuses on empowering women and uplifting marginalized communities.
Fun fact: Serita is a published author, with books like “The Business of Womanhood” offering practical advice for women navigating both personal and professional challenges.
Serita’s Role in Ministry
Serita plays an integral role in the ministry, often leading initiatives that focus on women’s empowerment and community development. Her passion for helping others shines through in everything she does, whether it’s mentoring young women or organizing community outreach programs.
She’s also known for her down-to-earth approach, reminding everyone that ministry isn’t about perfection—it’s about progress. “We’re all works in progress,” she often says, encouraging others to embrace their journey with grace and humility.
Their Impact on the World
TD Jakes and his wife have touched countless lives through their ministry, books, and public speaking engagements. Their influence extends far beyond The Potter’s House, reaching people of all backgrounds and denominations.
Some of their most notable achievements include:
- Founding The Potter’s House, which now serves over 28,000 members.
- Writing best-selling books that have sold millions of copies worldwide.
- Launching global initiatives aimed at addressing poverty, education, and healthcare disparities.
Through their work, TD and Serita have shown that faith can be a powerful catalyst for change, inspiring others to make a difference in their own communities.
Global Influence
TD Jakes’ sermons and teachings have been translated into multiple languages, allowing him to reach audiences around the world. His message of hope and empowerment resonates with people from all walks of life, proving that faith knows no boundaries.
Serita’s work, meanwhile, focuses on empowering women globally, particularly in developing countries. Her efforts have helped countless women break free from cycles of poverty and achieve their full potential.
Challenges They’ve Faced
No journey is without its challenges, and TD Jakes and his wife are no exception. They’ve faced criticism, skepticism, and even personal attacks throughout their ministry. Yet, they’ve remained steadfast in their commitment to their calling.
One of the biggest challenges they’ve faced is balancing their personal lives with their demanding ministry schedules. TD often speaks about the importance of setting boundaries and prioritizing family time, even amidst the chaos of ministry life.
Lessons from Adversity
Through their challenges, TD and Serita have learned valuable lessons about resilience, trust, and faith. They remind us that adversity is an opportunity for growth and that God uses our trials to shape us into the people He intends us to be.
“When you’re in the storm, remember that God is in the storm with you,” TD often says, encouraging others to trust in His plan, even when things seem uncertain.
The Legacy They’re Building
TD Jakes and his wife are leaving behind a legacy that will inspire generations to come. Through their ministry, writings, and community work, they’ve shown that faith can be a powerful force for good in the world.
Their legacy isn’t just about numbers or achievements—it’s about the lives they’ve touched and the hearts they’ve changed. From empowering women to addressing social justice issues, their impact will be felt for years to come.
Looking to the Future
As TD and Serita continue their ministry, they remain focused on expanding their reach and deepening their impact. They’re committed to using their platform to address the pressing issues of our time, from racial inequality to economic disparity.
“We’re not just building a church—we’re building a movement,” TD says, emphasizing the importance of collective action in creating lasting change.
Lessons We Can Learn
TD Jakes and his wife offer valuable lessons for anyone seeking to live a life of purpose and impact. Here are a few key takeaways:
- Balance is key: Prioritize your family and personal life, even amidst professional demands.
- Resilience matters: Adversity is an opportunity for growth, not defeat.
- Empower others: Use your gifts and resources to uplift those around you.
These lessons remind us that true success isn’t measured by wealth or fame—it’s measured by the lives we touch and the legacy we leave behind.
Conclusion: A Journey Worth Celebrating
TD Jakes and his wife have built an incredible legacy of faith, love, and service. Their story is one of resilience, commitment, and unwavering dedication to their calling. Through their ministry, writings, and community work, they’ve inspired millions around the globe.
As you reflect on their journey, consider how you can apply their lessons to your own life. Whether it’s prioritizing family, embracing adversity, or empowering others, there’s much we can learn from TD and Serita’s example.
So, what’s next? Share this article with someone who needs a dose of inspiration. Leave a comment with your thoughts or questions. And most importantly, let TD Jakes and his wife’s story motivate you to live a life of purpose and impact. After all, we’re all called to make a difference in our own unique way.


