Shannon Evans O’Brien is the spirituality and culture editor at the National Catholic Reporter and the author of the booksThe Mystics Would Like a Word, Feminist Prayers for My Daughter, and Rewilding Motherhood. With interest in ecofeminism, social change and contemplative practice, Shannon leads workshops and retreats across the country that spark curiosity and compassion. She currently serves on the board of Prairiewoods Franciscan Spirituality Center in Hiawatha, IA.

Shannon grew up in Waco, TX in a devout Baptist family and graduated from Baylor University in 2006. After two years of living in Indonesia as a missionary, she began exploring Catholicism upon her return home through involvement with a local Catholic Worker community. Heavily influenced by Dorothy Day, Peter Maurin, and Catholic Social Teaching, she was confirmed into the Catholic church at age 30. She and her family now make their home in Ames, IA. Follow her writing at The Rewilded Life.