Sad! Israel Houghton Divorces Wife Of 20 Years

Grammy-winner Israel Houghton announced the end of his
20-year marriage to Meleasa Houghton, telling Facebook followers “I failed
and sinned in my marriage.”

“Several years ago I failed and sinned in my marriage.
… Although we tried, the challenges in our relationship have proven too much
to overcome. We have always handled our family and ministry with grace and
generosity toward others, discretion, and privacy,” Houghton wrote on his
Facebook page.

Houghton is the senior worship leader at Joel Osteen’s
Lakewood Church. Himself and wife Meleasa founded New Breed Ministries in 1995.
New Breed Ministries is comprised of noted musicians and singers who serve
within their respective churches and, together, serve the church at large.

Houghton has won five Grammy Awards, 13 Dove Awards, two
Stellar Awards and a Soul Train Music Award. Houghton says the news might be
shocking to some, but many close to them were aware of their marital
troubles. 

“I am in the process of restoration and I have repented
for my actions. Although I am sincerely sorry, and forgiven, I soberly realize
that I will live with the consequences of my failings for the rest of my
life,” he said in the Facebook post.

“As this has become a public matter I want to apologize
to the many who have supported my ministry through the years. I’m sorry for the
many who will be hurt to learn of my personal failure. I regret any pain or
disappointment that this news may cause you. We thank you for your prayers and
for allowing us to handle this privately with those who are set over us in this
process,” Houghton concluded. 

The couple have three children.