A campus of The Potter’s House, the Dallas megachurch founded by Bishop T.D. Jakes, announced a name and branding change this week.
Formerly known as The Potter’s House of North Dallas, the church has officially changed its name to The Bridge Frisco, according to a video posted to the church’s Instagram on Sunday. The church also celebrated its 15th anniversary Sunday, according to its Instagram posts.
“This year, our church is celebrating 15 years of ministry, and we believe this new chapter is the perfect opportunity to refresh our name and look — reflecting on our legacy and looking with anticipation toward the future,” pastor Sheryl Brady and Bishop Joby Brady, who lead the church, wrote in a news release on the name change.
“Founder Bishop T.D. Jakes strongly supports our church and gives his blessing to this name change and updated visual identity,” according to the release. “We will remain relationally connected with The Potter’s House family of churches.” As of Tuesday, The Potter’s House still lists the church as one of its campuses.
Several staffers at The Bridge Frisco did not immediately respond to an emailed request for further comment on the change. A spokesperson for The Potter’s House also did not immediately respond to a request for comment.
Jakes, who has led The Potter’s House for almost 30 years, announced at an April 27 morning service that he will be handing leadership of the church over to his daughter Sarah Jakes Roberts and son-in-law Touré Roberts later this year.
After the transition, Jakes will continue in his role as chairman of the T.D. Jakes Group, which includes his real estate company, social impact holding company and T.D. Jakes Foundation.
Jakes’ announcement comes nearly six months after a major health incident that he later described as a “massive heart attack.” The incident occurred while Jakes was delivering a sermon on stage last November. That same month, Jakes filed a lawsuit against a former minister who accused Jakes of alleged attempted sexual assault.
The Bridge Frisco posted a list of Frequently Asked Questions about the change to its site. One question asked if the name change was “a reaction to the succession plan announced at TPH Dallas.”
“We joyfully celebrate the success and succession of The Potter’s House of Dallas — we wouldn’t exist without it! Many blessings and continued success to Pastors Touré and Sarah Jakes-Roberts,” according to the page. “After 10+ thriving years in Frisco, our new name reflects the city we call home and the mission that has always been.”
Adrian Ashford covers faith and religion in North Texas for The Dallas Morning News through a partnership with Report for America.