Serita Jakes is an American pastor, author, speaker, and women’s ministry leader best known for her lifelong partnership with Bishop T.D. Jakes and her leadership at The Potter’s House in Dallas. For decades she has helped women recover from trauma, rediscover purpose, and build strong families. Her teaching blends emotional insight with spiritual truth, and her books and conferences have made her a trusted voice in Christian circles.
Quick Facts about Serita Jakes
| Full Name | Serita Ann Jakes |
|---|---|
| Date of Birth | August 19, 1955 |
| Age | 70 years old (as of 2025) |
| Place of Birth | Beckley, West Virginia, U.S. |
| Nationality | American |
| Occupation | Pastor, Speaker, Author, Women’s Ministry Leader |
| Spouse | Bishop T.D. Jakes |
| Children | Jermaine, Jamar, Cora, Thomas, Sarah Jakes Roberts |
| Church | The Potter’s House, Dallas, Texas |
Early Life and Background
Serita Ann Jakes was born in Beckley, West Virginia, on August 19, 1955. Her early years included painful experiences that later shaped her ministry: she has spoken publicly about childhood hurts and the journey toward healing. Those early struggles led Serita to develop a ministry style rooted in empathy—she understands how trauma and low self-worth affect spiritual life and relationships.
While detailed formal education records are limited in public sources, Serita’s practical training came through life experience, mentoring, and ministry work alongside her husband. She has often credited personal study, counseling work, and hands-on leadership for sharpening her pastoral gifts.
Marriage and Family Life
Serita married Thomas Dexter Jakes (T.D. Jakes) in 1981. Their marriage has weathered the pressures of public ministry and considerable family responsibilities. Together they raised five children: Jermaine, Jamar, Cora, Thomas Jr., and Sarah Jakes Roberts.
Serita’s daughter Sarah is now a leading pastor and author herself, co-pastoring churches in Denver and Los Angeles and running a ministry that focuses on women and families. The Jakes family is close-knit; they often appear together at conferences, family events, and on ministry platforms. Serita is widely viewed as the emotional anchor of the family—quietly influential, deeply spiritual, and fiercely protective of her children.
Ministry Role and Teaching Focus
Serita serves as a senior leader at The Potter’s House and is the Executive Director of Women’s and Children’s Affairs. Her formal role includes organizing women’s conferences, mentoring programs, and outreach initiatives. More than titles, her impact springs from personal connection: she meets women where they are, offers practical steps toward emotional healing, and models resilience.
Her teaching highlights include:
- Healing from emotional and relational wounds
- Restoring self-worth and dignity to women who have suffered abuse or rejection
- Strengthening marriages and family relationships
- Developing spiritual and emotional resilience
Her speaking style is candid and heart-centered. Instead of lofty theological argument, Serita uses stories, pastoral counseling techniques, and practical action points that listeners can apply immediately.
Books and Major Writings
Serita Jakes has authored several books that blend memoir, counsel, and spiritual encouragement. Notable titles include:
- The Princess Within: Restoring the Soul of a Woman — a book about reclaiming dignity and identity.
- Beside Every Good Man: Loving Myself While Standing by Him — addresses marriage, identity, and support.
- The Crossing: A Journey to Emotional Healing — focuses on recovery from emotional wounds and trauma.
Her books are used widely in women’s small groups, counseling ministries, and conference curricula. They reflect a pastoral voice shaped by personal struggle and professional caregiving
Conferences, Outreach and Media
Serita co-leads major women’s events connected to The Potter’s House, including retreats and the church’s women’s conference programs. These gatherings attract thousands and emphasize spiritual growth, healing, and practical life skills. Beyond in-person events, Serita appears on Christian broadcasts, contributes to devotional content, and records sessions that are shared through the church’s media channels.
She has helped establish mentoring programs and local outreach projects targeted at single mothers, survivors of abuse, and young women transitioning into adulthood.
Philanthropy and Community Work
At The Potter’s House, Serita is active in outreach programs that serve families and children. The church’s initiatives include emergency assistance, mentoring, educational support, and resources for victims of domestic violence. Serita has been hands-on with many of these efforts, often meeting program beneficiaries personally and advocating for resources that promote dignity and long-term recovery.
House, Lifestyle and Personal Practices
Serita and Bishop Jakes live in the Dallas area near their church campus. Their home life, while comfortable given their ministry success, is described by family members as centered on faith, family rhythms, and hospitality. Serita emphasizes spiritual disciplines—prayer, scripture reading, and intentional family time—as the backbone of her daily life.
Net Worth
While exact figures may vary, Serita Jakes’ estimated net worth is believed to be around $1 million to $5 million. Her income primarily comes from book sales, ministry engagements, and leadership roles at The Potter’s House. However, her true wealth lies in her lasting spiritual legacy and the countless lives she has transformed through her faith-driven work.
Criticisms and Public Perception
Serita tends to avoid controversy; she is widely respected for compassion and discretion. Public criticism directed at The Potter’s House has typically focused on broader ministry issues rather than Serita personally. Her reputation remains that of a stabilizing, empathetic leader whose primary work is pastoral care for women and families.
Notable Quotes
- “Healing doesn’t mean the damage never existed. It means the damage no longer controls our lives.”
- “Your past may have shaped you, but it does not have to define your future.”
- “True strength often looks quiet; it is the courage to keep walking when the road is hard.”
FAQs
In this section, I will provide you with some FAQs and answers on Serita Jakes Biography. Keep on reading, friend!
1. How old is Serita Jakes?
Serita Jakes was born on August 19, 1955, making her 70 years old in 2025.
2. What is Serita Jakes known for?
She is known as an author, women’s ministry leader, pastor, and speaker who focuses on emotional healing, family restoration, and women’s empowerment at The Potter’s House.
3. Who is Serita Jakes married to?
She is married to Bishop T.D. Jakes, founder and senior pastor of The Potter’s House in Dallas.
4. How many children does Serita Jakes have?
Serita and Bishop Jakes have five children: Jermaine, Jamar, Cora, Thomas Jr., and Sarah Jakes Roberts.
5. What are Serita Jakes’ most popular books?
Her widely read books include The Princess Within, Beside Every Good Man, and The Crossing.
ALSO READ: T.D Jakes Biography: Age, Net Worth, Family, Career and Achievements