Pastor's Reflection - October 12, 2025

An Introduction to the Works of Michael O’Brien

This week, I’d like to highlight the work of a modern Catholic voice who continues to inspire readers around the world: Michael O’Brien. He is one of my favorite authors, and his books have been a tremendous blessing to me over the years.

A Canadian author, painter, and speaker, Michael O’Brien is perhaps best known for his acclaimed novel Father Elijah: An Apocalypse, published by Ignatius Press in 1996. This powerful work blends deep theological insight, compelling narrative, and a profound understanding of spiritual warfare. It has become a cornerstone of contemporary Catholic fiction and continues to stir the hearts of those seeking truth in turbulent times. When I served as pastor at Sacred Heart in 2003, I organized an online book club on Father Elijah.

O’Brien’s fiction often explores the clash between faith and secularism, the dignity of the human person, and the quiet heroism of those who follow Christ in a world that often rejects Him. His characters are richly human: flawed, searching, and deeply relatable, and their journeys reflect the universal call to holiness.

This week I am starting one of O’Brien’s newer books, Letter to a Future Generation. I bought the book a long time ago, but because his works are so often prophetic, I decided to delay reading it. During my walk on the Camino, I knew it was time to pick it up and begin. I’ll share my reflections on the book in a later bulletin column.

I am away this weekend at the Pentecost Today Holy Spirit Conference in Houston. Wishing you a most blessed week!

In Christ,

Fr. James Northrop