John Michael Helms

John Michael Helms is an award-winning columnist, chaplain, pastoral counselor, and author whose work blends storytelling, spiritual insight, and compassionate presence. A native of Louisville, Alabama, he grew up with a deep love for the outdoors, family, and faith—threads that continue to run through his writing.

Michael earned nine Amy Foundation awards for his reflective newspaper columns in The Moultrie Observer, drawing from everyday experiences to help readers notice the sacred in the ordinary.

He is a board-certified chaplain at Athens Piedmont Hospital. He maintains a pastoral counseling practice in Jefferson, Georgia, and online and has been a longtime preacher throughout Georgia, pastoring churches in Clarkesville, Moultrie, and Jefferson. He currently pastors Pleasant Hill Presbyterian Church in Statham, Georgia.

A graduate of Columbia Theological Seminary with a Doctor of Ministry degree, Michael integrates coaching, mindfulness, and holistic care into his work with individuals and families.

He is the author of several books, his most recent, The Big, Green Envy Monster, a children’s story that helps young readers understand emotions, relationships, and honesty.

Michael lives in Nicholson, Georgia, where he enjoys spending time with his family, creative writing, and exploring the outdoors.