Bishop TD Jakes faced a sudden health emergency while delivering a sermon at his Dallas megachurch, which was broadcast live.
The Daily Mail reported that Bishop TD Jakes, a prominent figure in religious and public life, suddenly began to experience significant health difficulties while preaching to an audience of thousands at The Potter's House in Dallas.
During a pivotal moment in his sermon, those present and viewers online observed Jakes trembling involuntarily and struggling to maintain his grip on the microphone, which clattered to the ground as he attempted to stabilize himself.
The incident, which unfolded live, caused immediate concern among the congregation and the extensive online audience. Church staff swiftly intervened, seen in video clips circulating on social media, where they were urging people to provide the Bishop some space to recuperate momentarily.
Concurrently, an unseen announcer directed the attendees, and possibly the viewers online, to begin prayers for Jakes.
Discussions and speculations swirled online following the circulation of the video, with many expressing alarm and proposing that Jake might have experienced a stroke. Others offered prayers and well wishes, underlining the Bishop's influential role in their lives and the broader religious community.
Shortly after the incident, an official communication from Jake's team clarified the situation via his social media platforms.
It stated, "During today's service, Bishop TD 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 professionals." This message was intended to alleviate concerns and provide assurance of his immediate care and condition.
Bishop Jakes, aged 67, has led The Potter's House since he purchased the church building back in 1996 from televangelist W.V. Grant.
The church has grown considerably under his leadership, often hosting up to 17,000 attendees in weekly services, and has a total membership exceeding 30,000. The community it serves includes a wide-ranging demographic, providing various support services, even to the homeless.
Earlier this year, Jakes was brought up in a lawsuit involving Sean "Diddy" Combs, accusing Combs of attempting to use Jakes to bolster his public image amidst legal challenges. This mention ties back to Jakes's substantial influence and reputation in both religious circles and broader societal spheres.
His net worth is estimated to be around $20 million and he is followed by over a million people across social media platforms.
The impact of the incident was profound, with an outpouring of support flowing in from across the globe. An official statement from the Potter's House expressed gratitude, "The entire Potter's House family is grateful for the outpouring of love, prayers, and support from the community. Thank you for your understanding and continued prayers."
As news of Bishop TD Jakes' health scare spread, the global community he has helped foster reflected on his contributions and prayed ardently for his swift recovery.
Comments online and messages directed toward the church demonstrated the wide-reaching effect of his ministry and the personal connection felt by many.
While the exact nature of Jakes' medical emergency has not been disclosed, the call for prayers during the livestream drew widespread attention.
"Oh Lord, my strength, my redeemer, let them go in peace," these were some of Jakes' last words as he faced difficulty during the sermon, a moment that likely resonated deeply with those in attendance and watching online.