(Washington, DC) – House Democratic Caucus Chair James E. Clyburn will make his first official visit outside Washington to meet with Bishop T.D. Jakes of the legendary Potter’s House in Dallas, Texas this weekend.  Clyburn is making the trip in his role not only as Chair of the Caucus, but in his capacity as Chair of Leader Pelosi’s Democratic Faith Working Group.

“Bishop Jakes is an extraordinary leader in the Christian community.  He is an entrepreneur and a bridge builder that leads by example,” Congressman Clyburn said.  “I look forward to an ongoing dialogue with the Bishop regarding faith and how it shapes our public policies.”

While in Dallas on Saturday, Congressman Clyburn will join Bishop Jakes in touring Clay Academy, one of the many community-outreach programs sponsored by The Potter’s House.  On Sunday, Bishop Jakes has invited the Congressman to speak at the 10:00 a.m. worship service at The Potter’s House church, which serves a Dallas-based congregation of 28,000 and a much wider television audience. 

“I grew up the son of a fundamentalist minister who taught me the same message Bishop Jakes preaches – leading by serving,” Congressman Clyburn continued.  “My father had high hopes that I would go into the ministry, but I chose to lead by serving in a different capacity.  Yet I believe the Bishop and I share a lot of common ground.” 

Congressman Clyburn hopes this meeting will lead to a lasting relationship for both men to further explore their shared desire to improve the quality of life for all humanity.