Our story
Every marriage deserves a place to grow.
The Highland Marriage Ministry exists to strengthen and enrich marriages in every season of life by equipping couples with biblical truth, practical tools, and a community of grace — helping husbands and wives grow in faith, deepen connection, and build Christ-centered homes that reflect God's design for lasting love.
We're a group of couples and facilitators who've been through the hard seasons and the good ones. We know marriage takes intention, and we're building something that makes that intention normal, doable, and even fun.
“Let marriage be held in honor by all.”
Hebrews 13:4
Grace-centered
No pretending we've got it all figured out. Real marriages, real conversations, real grace.
For every couple
Married, engaged, newlyweds, or decades in — from any church background or none.
Practical & confidential
Everything shared in our programs stays there. What you learn is meant for your kitchen table.
Who leads it
A team of couples, not a stage
Each of our programs is shepherded by couples who show up for other couples the way they've been shown up for. You won't find polished experts up front — you'll find people who've done the work and want to walk alongside you.
Jonathan & Angie Murphy
- Grace Marriage lead
Shawn & Lisa Frenzel
- Grace Marriage lead
Matt & Laura Smeltzer
- SMLR — Start Married Life Right lead
Jesse & Rachel Cox
- WinShape Retreats lead
Bill & Cathy Ivey
- Premarital Counseling lead
- Special Marriage Presentations lead
Jeff Frizzell & Bill Ivey
- Marriage Counseling lead
Additional certified SYMBIS facilitator couples also help lead premarital sessions. Hosted by Highland Church in Cordova, TN — open to the whole community.
Common questions
Do we have to be members of Highland Church?
Not at all. This ministry exists for every couple in the Memphis area. Whether you attend Highland, another church, or no church, you are genuinely welcome here.
Do we have to be Christian?
You don't need any particular background to attend. Our teaching draws from biblical wisdom, but we present it in a way that's practical and easy to engage with wherever you're coming from.
Will this get awkward or too personal in a group setting?
No one is ever put on the spot. Group time is for teaching and light discussion; the deeper conversations happen just between you and your spouse, using the workbook prompts. You share only what you want to share.
What if only one of us wants to go?
That's more common than you'd think — and it's okay. Come anyway, alone or with your spouse. We've seen plenty of couples where one partner started out reluctant and later said they were glad they came. No pressure, no shame.
Is this the same as therapy?
No. Our programs are marriage education and community — teaching, tools, and a rhythm of investment. For clinical needs, our Marriage Counseling program can privately connect you with trained, professional counselors we know and trust.
What if our marriage is really struggling?
You're exactly who we hope walks in the door. Come as you are. We can also connect you privately with trained professional counselors through our Marriage Counseling program.
What does it cost?
Grace Marriage sessions include free breakfast and free childcare — there's no fee to attend. WinShape retreats have their own pricing (scholarships are available through Highland). Costs for other programs vary — reach out and we'll walk you through specifics.
Is anything free?
Yes — Grace Marriage sessions include free breakfast and free childcare. WinShape retreats have scholarships available through Highland to help cover the cost.