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LINEUP

4pm - Church Friends
TDBpm- Warren Peay
TBDpm- Eli Gable
TBDpm - Brandon Heath
TBDpm- Stephen McWhirter

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2026 Headliner - Stephen McWhirter

STEPHEN MCWHIRTER - Stephen McWhirter is a Dove Award–winning and Grammy-nominated worship recording artist, songwriter, speaker, and now author whose story and music testify to the redemptive power of Jesus to radically restore even the most broken of lives. Stephen, the son of an evangelist, was a drug addict who hated Jesus and Christians, encountered the love of Jesus in a way that completely transformed his heart and life. What began as a story of addiction and hopelessness has now become a testimony of radical restoration and unshakable faith. Through every song, message, and moment on stage, Stephen carries the same heart cry—that people would encounter the real, living Jesus who changes everything. You can read Stephen’s whole story in his book, “Radically Restored: How Knowing Jesus Heals Our Brokenness ”His breakout worship anthem, "Come Jesus Come, "has become a global prayer of longing and revival, reaching millions of listeners across streaming platforms and worship gatherings worldwide. The song earned him his first Grammy nomination with both CeCe Winans and the Brooklyn Tabernacle Choir, and its impact continues to grow—connecting deeply with believers hungry for the presence of God and the hope of His return. Today, Stephen travels globally and has significant online presence as a worship leader and speaker, sharing his story and leading many to Jesus. Whether on stage, in song, or through his upcoming book, his mission is simple: to point people to Jesus, to find out who they are restored and fully alive. Stephen lives in Louisville, Kentucky, with his wife, Tara and their three sons. He is an artist and songwriter with Capital Christian Music Group & Rethink Music, and an author with Zondervan Books

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Brandon Heath

Brandon Heath is a Grammy-nominated, Dove Award-winning contemporary Christian singer-songwriter from Nashville, Tennessee.Heath's major-label debut,Don't Get Comfortable(2006), featured the No. 1 hit “I'm Not Who IWas.” His 2008 follow-up,What IfWe, included the chart-topping single “Give Me Your Eyes,”which earned him two Dove Awards, including Song of the Year, and a Grammy nomination.Over his career, Heath has released multiple successful albums, includingLeaving Eden(2011),Blue Mountain(2012), andFaith Hope Love Repeat(2017). In 2022, he achieved another No. 1hit with “See Me Through It” from his albumEnough Already.Beyond his music, Heath is known for his storytelling and introspective lyrics that explorethemes of faith, identity, and grace

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Eli Gable

ELI GABLE is an Ohio-born singer-songwriter based in Nashville, TN. His music is a mix of the influences
he grew up on including worship, folk, and rock. Eli has been releasing music and developing his sound
as an artist since he moved to Music City in 2020. He's in constant pursuit of art that connects life with
honesty, and faith with curiosity. Big otter guy.
Mountain. Soul. Rock + Roll.

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Warren Peay 

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Born and raised in Bamberg, South Carolina, Warren was brought up with big faith in a small town. Being from a rural area, he has a passion for the outdoors, and carries that into his ministry, seeking to connect with others that share a down-home, simple lifestyle.

Warren’s musical influences include a long list of genres, but most heavily; christian, country, and southern rock. Since recently signing in 2025 with Integrity Music, Warren has continued to write and release songs with a raw realism that draws in fans of all music.

After competing on American Idol’s 21st season, Warren finished in the top 8 competitors and set out to pursue a career in Christian music. After signing with Vision Artists Agency, Warren’s goal is to grow the kingdom of God through music ministry, and hopes to be a light to all people in need.

Church Friends

Church Friends is a faith-driven group from Atlanta, GA made up of siblings Anna Kate, Taylor and close friend Kieana. Their hearts are to reach others with the gospel by creating joyful, authentic music rooted in community and praise.

Career Highlights (last updated 2/27/2026):

  • Released their first single, “Take Me Home,” in May 2025.

  • Performed on the 20th season of America’s Got Talent.

  • Released their second single, “Walk On,” in October 2025.

  • Released a live performance video of “Walk On,” with RadioWV in November 2025.

    • Facebook received 2.6M views

    • Youtube received 43K views

    • Instagram received 16.1K views

  • Released their third single, “Heaven Ain’t Quiet” in February 2026.

Location :
Helmar Lutheran Church
11935 Lisbon Rd. Newark IL, 60541

 
*For inclement weather please check back on website*
  For questions: helmarpalooza@gmail.com

 
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