Jonathan David Helser

Jonathan Helser is a songwriter, worship leader, and founder of The 18 Inch Journey - a discipleship school based in North Carolina where he also leads the artist collective Cageless Birds with his wife Melissa. Jonathan and Melissa have been a part of the Bethel Music Collective since 2014, bringing with them a rich history of passionate worship. The Helsers yearn to see a generation encounter the love of God, and their music reflects their collisions with His love. The Helsers’ most recent album, The Land I’m Livin’ In (Live) (2022), was recorded in North Carolina where they have poured the last two decades into cultivating community and discipleship. Jonathan is also featured on Bethel Music’s Peace, Vol. II (2021) singing “You Came (Lazarus)” with his wife Melissa as well as Homecoming (2021) singing “I Believe”. Most recently, he appears on Come Up Here (2023) with Melissa singing “I Am Your Beloved.” The Helsers are known for their hit “Raise A Hallelujah” - an anthem written as a declaration of healing and hope - which was featured on Bethel Music’s VICTORY (2019) and reached #1 on Christian Billboard charts. “No Longer Slaves” which appears on Bethel Music’s We Will Not Be Shaken (2015), took home “Worship Song of the Year” at the 47th Annual GMA Dove Awards. The couple’s latest studio album, We Rise We Bow, was recorded in North Carolina through their artist collective, Cageless Birds. This album was inspired by the collective’s personal stories, friendships, and the time spent fighting for the next generation. Jonathan carries the message of sonship and eloquently displays the heart of the Father in his well-known songs such as “Abba” and “You Came” - featured on the Helsers’ album, Beautiful Surrender released in 2016. Jonathan, and his wife Melissa, live with their two beautiful children in Sophia, North Carolina, where they lead The 18 Inch Journey, spending time crafting songs, art, and goods that encourage others into wholeness and freedom as children of God.