Famous Christian worship leader Israel Houghton has announced his divorce on Facebook after more than 20 years of marriage.

The Grammy Award Winning gospel artist apologised for what he described as a "personal failure" after he revealed he had "failed and sinned" in their marriage.

Houghton, known for songs such as "Friend of God", said the couple had been "working through this for over 5 years".

"Although we tried, the challenges in our relationship have proven too much to overcome," he wrote. It is understood the couple have been seperated for a significant length of time before announcing their divorce.

Houghton often tours with his band New Breed and is worship leader at Joel Osteen's Lakewood Church in Houston, Texas. The musician apologised to those who had supported him and said he was "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 wrote on a public post on his Facebook page.

"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."

The Californian-born leader said the couple were "handling this privately with pastoral oversight and assistance" and said they would "remain friendly and kind to each other going forward".

He concluded: "We thank you for your prayers and for allowing us to handle this privately with those who are set over us in this process."