Roc O'Connor

One of the founding members of the St. Louis Jesuits, Father Roc O’Connor is a gifted theologian, recording artist, songwriter and composer who has been writing music for the liturgy since 1974. Jesuit Father Roc O'Connor has been a member of the Society of Jesus since 1967. He has a bachelor's degree from St. Louis University, a master’s from the Jesuit School of Theology and a licentiate in sacred theology from Weston Jesuit School of Theology. He also holds a master's in liturgical studies from The Catholic University of America. He has many years of pastoral experience in parishes around the U.S. Father O'Connor has two solo collections, Rise Up in Splendor and Behold the Glory of God. Some of his most beloved compositions emerged from his years with the St. Louis Jesuits, including “Lift Up Your Hearts” and “Seek the Lord.” His popular song “O Beauty Ever Ancient” is from the group’s last collection, Morning Light. In 2015, OCP Publications released the 40th anniversary edition of Earthen Vessels, the group's best-selling second album. And in the fall of 2017, OCP Publications celebrated the 40th anniversary of their classic Christmas album, Gentle Night, with a beautifully remixed and remastered commemorative edition. His writing has appeared in many national magazines. His first book, In the Midst of Our Storms, presents a eucharistic spirituality that integrates every part of our lives. His second and most recent book, I Want to See, uses the story of Bartamaeus to tell how one can find peace and joy in the world by giving themselves up to Christ. Father O'Connor offers workshops that focus on promoting a renewed catechesis toward full, active and conscious participation in the liturgy. He has taught theology and liturgy at Creighton University and served as rector of the Jesuit community there. Currently he is an Associate Pastor at the Church of the Gesu, a Jesuit parish in Milwaukee, Wisconsin.