About Us.

Our story is one filled with brokenness and deep healing.  Restoration marks the tone of our relationship and ministry.  We believe that Jesus came for captives, brokenhearted, needy people just like us and just like you.

We have been married for 13 adventure-filled years.  In June of 1995, our journey in marriage began when we exchanged vows at a church in Garner, NC…Melody’s hometown.  Though we did not realize the full extent of those vows, we made a commitment that had “forever” written allover it…till death do us part.  We believed and still believe in the deep meaning of those vows and heart commitment.

In the years since those vows were shared, we have experienced a journey of receiving the healing Jesus came for.  Our stories intertwined on that day, yet we did not realize the extent of baggage we would have to work through.  Each one wounded and carrying forward hurts and struggles.  Over the years, God has allowed and entrusted much brokenness to our story. 

We came to a critical crossroad about 5 years ago when divorce seemed inevitable.

Randy was working in a local church as a minister.  He had been in ministry for nearly 10 years at the time.  Our first child, Caleb, was in the first year or so of life.  On the outside, we had it together.  Everyone thought “look at the Hemphills…they have the perfect marriage.”  While on the inside, we were dying a slow death.  Our marriage was suffocating from years of hurt and pain…mostly unrecognized.

Then God broke through.  Exposed the full extent of our idols and struggles.  In those lonely, broken days, we had no place to turn.  Only the stark, raving love of Jesus could rescue us.  Only resurrection power could restore this dead marriage.  And He did.  And He continues to do that to this day.

Brokenness is not a seasonal term for us…it is a daily mindset.  It is a call to dependency and neediness that keeps us fighting for our hearts and marriage.  We are in process.  The story is not complete.  There is more life and freedom to be experienced.

Since that time, God has blessed us with a second son, Brennan.  Our desire is to raise these 2 young boys to be mighty warriors for the Kingdom.  Family is the context in which we battle against the enemy of our hearts, Satan.  And we will win.

Marriage Encounter is a movement designed by God to bring the healing promised to each of us.  Our desire in shepherding couples’ hearts is to be real, be honest, and be intentional.  Time is too short.  Our marriages are worth it.