Michael D. O'Brien, iconographer, painter, and writer, is the popular author of many best-selling novels including Father Elijah, Strangers and Sojourners, Elijah in Jerusalem, The Father's Tale, Eclipse of the Sun, Sophia House, The Lighthouse, and Island of the World. His novels have been translated into twelve languages and widely reviewed in both secular and religious media in North America and Europe.

Charles is the Director of Development at Ignatius Press where his focus is on fundraising, mission advancement and creative networking and partnerships. In 2023 and 2024 Charles helped raise over $3M in fundraising revenue for mission initiatives at Ignatius Press. In his role as Executive Producer for The Lighthouse, Charles brings his passion for combining visionary thinking with practical execution. He has over a decade of experience in Catholic education and storytelling, in the classroom, on the stage, and in audio drama and film.

Charles lives with his wife and three daughters on their homestead in Angels Camp, California, along with their many animals and large gardens.