Jonathan David & Melissa Helser, an American Christian music husband-and-wife duo from Sophia, North Carolina, began their musical careers together in 2013. Their passion for worship and deep connection to God is reflected in their musical journey, which has seen them release multiple studio albums, with their breakthrough album, Beautiful Surrender, marking their entry onto the Billboard charts. 

Since their debut, the Helsers have become key figures in the global worship movement, inspiring many with their heartfelt lyrics and dynamic worship leading.

Family of Jonathan David & Melissa Helser

Jonathan and Melissa Helser are more than just a musical duo—they are passionate lovers of Jesus and believers in people. Together with their two children, Cadence and Haven, and their two labradoodles, Solomon and Ruby, they live in the serene woods of Sophia, North Carolina. The name “Helser” itself means “people of the woods,” embodying their commitment to a life of simplicity, wholeheartedness, and deep spiritual connection.

Their mission as a family is to live in complete alignment with the Holy Spirit, fully connected to each other and the divine. They aim to empower everyone they encounter with the truth that Jesus died to be with us and now vibrantly lives inside of us, affecting every area of their daily lives. Whether through the hidden ways they cultivate their home or their leadership in the Church, Jonathan and Melissa are dedicated to bringing people closer to God’s presence.

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The 18 Inch Journey: Discipleship and Transformation

In 2007, Jonathan and Melissa founded their first discipleship school, The 18 Inch Journey, named after the symbolic distance between the head and the heart. This program has become a central part of their ministry, focusing on three key aspects: discipleship, creativity, and community. 

Over the years, the 18 Inch Journey has expanded beyond its original two-month format and now includes a first- and second-year school, along with camps and retreats designed to help participants walk in the fullness of their identities in Christ.

For the Helsers, the heart of these schools is to help people build strong, sustainable relationships with Jesus that will serve them for the entirety of their lives. Their desire is to see the children of God living fully empowered and connected to their hearts, guided by the Holy Spirit.

Worship Leading: A Global Mission

Jonathan and Melissa Helser are deeply passionate about leading worship on a global scale. Over the last 14 years, they have written and recorded music that reflects their love for God and their heart for the Church. Their first album, The Awakening (2005), set the stage for a musical career that would span multiple albums, including their latest project, The Land I’m Livin’ In, released in collaboration with Bethel Music.

The Helsers teamed up with Bethel Music in 2014, contributing significantly to albums like Victory (“Raise A Hallelujah”), We Will Not Be Shaken (“No Longer Slaves”), and Starlight (“Catch the Wind”). Their music resonates with their desire to see the Earth reflect Heaven’s love and peace. 

Jonathan and Melissa continue to travel internationally, participating in events such as Bethel Tours, David’s Tent, and Big Church Day Out, consistently leading people into the presence of God through their worship.

Cageless Birds: A Missional Community of Creatives

In 2013, Jonathan and Melissa founded Cageless Birds, a missional community of artists committed to living out their faith through creativity. Located in Sophia, NC, this community of artisans is dedicated to cultivating the arts and creating beautiful, life-giving works. Their creative pursuits range from writing books and recording original music to handcrafting leather goods, pottery, roasting coffee, and producing visual art. 

All proceeds from these endeavors support their discipleship schools and ministry efforts.

The Helsers are committed not only to producing art but also to raising up confident, wholehearted sons and daughters in the faith. Jonathan has often stated that success is measured by how much “family” is being produced within their ministry. Their vision is for Heaven to come to Earth, and for that transformation to be reflected in the way they build relationships and create art.

Music History and Discography

Jonathan and Melissa Helser’s musical journey has been marked by their dedication to producing high-quality worship music, and their impact on the global worship scene is undeniable. Here is a breakdown of their discography:

Jonathan David & Melissa Helser Songs

1. Endless Ocean, Bottomless Sea (2014)
   • Label: Bethel Music
   • Format: CD, digital download
   • Notable tracks: “You Came” (Lazarus)
2. On the Shores (2015)
   • Label: Bethel Music
   • Format: CD, digital download
   • Notable tracks: “Catch the Wind”
3. Beautiful Surrender (2016)
   • Label: Bethel Music
   • Format: CD, digital download
   • Chart Performance: No. 54 on The Billboard 200, No. 1 on Christian Albums, No. 67 on Canadian Albums
   • Notable tracks: “No Longer Slaves,” “Raise A Hallelujah”
4. The Land I’m Livin’ In (2022)
   • Label: Bethel Music
   • Format: Digital download, streaming
   • Notable tracks: “Victory,” “I Believe”

Live Albums

1. The Awakening (2005)
   • Label: Independent
   • Format: Digital download, streaming
2. The Land I’m Livin’ In (2022)
   • Label: Bethel Music
   • Format: Digital download, streaming

Extended Plays (EPs)

1. The Land I’m Livin’ In — Day One (2022)
   • Label: Bethel Music
   • Format: Digital download, streaming
2. The Land I’m Livin’ In — Day Two (2022)
   • Label: Bethel Music
   • Format: Digital download, streaming
3. The Land I’m Livin’ In — Day Three (2022)
   • Label: Bethel Music
   • Format: Digital download, streaming

Singles

1. “No Longer Slaves” (with Bethel Music) — 2015
   • Chart positions: Christian AC Radio No. 15, Christian Radio No. 19
   • Certifications: RIAA Gold
2. “Raise A Hallelujah” (with Bethel Music) — 2019
   • Chart positions: Christian AC No. 1, Christian No. 1, Christian Airplay No. 17
   • Certifications: RIAA Gold
3. “Victory” (2022)
   • Chart positions: Christian Airplay No. 38
4. “I Believe” (2022)
   • Chart positions: Christian AC No. 38

Conclusion

Jonathan David and Melissa Helser’s journey as musicians, disciples, and leaders continues to inspire countless individuals worldwide. Through their music, their discipleship schools, and their creative ventures, the Helsers are leaving a lasting impact on the global Church, inviting everyone to live wholeheartedly for God. Their story is one of transformation, creativity, and dedication to empowering others to encounter God’s love and walk in their true identity.