Convener of the annual ‘Women, Thou Art Loosed’ conference in the United States, Bishop T.D. Jakes, on Thursday passed the torch unto his daughter, Pastor Sarah Jakes Roberts.
The final edition which held in Atlanta this weekend saw the widely acclaimed preacher transferring leadership of the women empowerment conference to his 34-year-daughter.
“I knew this moment would arrive the minute I saw you grow from my baby girl into a leader in your own right. I knew in my heart of hearts that God called you to women’s empowerment, and now, that moment is finally here.
“So, I am honored to pass the torch on to you. I know I will be amazed at what God will do through you, and I will be your biggest cheerleader, as you have been one of mine! This is my vow to you: I will always be there to put my coat over you for as long as I live, and gladly so. For as I decrease, I will watch God increase you,” he said.
Sarah became a teen mom at age 14, and later went through a difficult public divorce. However, she turned her pain into purpose.
At 23, she was tempted to allow her journey as a woman battling insecurities, teen pregnancy stigma, low self-esteem, toxic relationships, and depression to define the rest of her life. It wasn’t until she was in her darkest moment that she realized she only had two options: settle or evolve.
The process of transforming from the insecure and fearful young girl that she was into the powerhouse wife, mother, businesswoman, and leader that she is took dedication, discipline, resources, and spiritual growth.
She her current husband, Toure Roberts, whom she married in a private wedding ceremony in 2014. He is also a pastor. Together, they have six children.
Five years ago, Sarah founded ‘Woman Evolve’, a ministry that focuses on incubating women to their fullness. Since its conception, Woman Evolve has successfully reached and guided thousands of women to awaken healing, wholeness, and love for themselves and others.
For her father, Bishop Jakes, the conference first began in 1992 as a Sunday School class in his Charleston, W.Va. storefront church.
Years later, it evolved into a stage play, movie and international best-selling book.
He recalled that one year in Atlanta, the event got so big that with people milling outside the venue “the fire marshal threatened to shut us down… It’s been a great run. I’m so happy to celebrate the grand finale with you.”
Jakes told those gathered that God was calling them to do great things for the Kingdom.
“Whatever you are going after, it is within your reach,” he said.
He encouraged them to keep up with a changing world, changing business models and evolving technology to be successful.
Speaking about the decision to end the event, Frank Dyer, Chief Operating Officer of T.D. Jakes Ministries said: “I think with two decades it’s time for women to evolve,” said Dyer. “So, at this point, it’s coming to an end. Just like in life, you have that transition. That transitioning is happening now to allow women to evolve.”
