Bishop T.D. Jakes returned to the pulpit at The Potter’s House Church on New Year's Eve.
This is the first time that the pastor has been able to preach since experiencing a serious medical incident on Nov. 24, 2024.
The congregation welcomed him back with open arms giving him a standing ovation as he took to the stage.
"I cannot tell you how glad I am to be in the house of the Lord tonight," said Bishop Jakes to the congregation. "I don't know what you're going through tonight, but let this be a signal to you that you're on you're on your way to a comeback."
He went on to mention that while in hospital, doctors told him he had a stroke and that they almost lost him twice.
"God has a way of bringing His children through together! God is healing His children!!! What a blessing to be able to resume your service to the kingdom!!! Keep us in your prayers!" said Bishop Jakes.
At the end of the sermon, he let his congregants know that he will continue to take time for himself and return to the pulpit fully when his energy and health have been restored.
In a live stream of the service on Nov. 24, Jakes, 67, founder and senior pastor of The Potter’s House Church, can be seen lowering his mic before his body begins to shudder and twitch. Several people rushed to the stage to help before rushing him to the hospital.
He was released from hospital on Nov. 29 after undergoing emergency surgery.
"It didn't have to end this good. I'm so grateful," said Bishop T.D. Jakes as he left the hospital. "All the people who prayed. All the people who texted. All the people who had prayer vigils. All the people who were concerned, who sent love and notes. I'm just grateful. Thank you. It didn't have to turn out this way. I'm just grateful."
It's still unclear as to the nature of his medical event.
The Potter's House was founded in 1996. Since then, it has grown to over 30,000 members.