Michael Joncas

Jan Michael Joncas (born December 21, 1951) is a Catholic priest of the Archdiocese of Saint Paul and Minneapolis, liturgical theologian, and composer of contemporary Catholic music[2] best known for his hymn "On Eagle's Wings".

[4][5] Joncas composed the hymn he is best known for, "On Eagle's Wings", following the death of a friend's father in the late 1970s.

[10] In 2003, Joncas was diagnosed with Guillain–Barré syndrome after noticing he lacked the strength to elevate the chalice at Mass.

[5] The residual effects of the disorder still prevent him from playing guitar,[10] the instrument on which he composed "On Eagle's Wings".

[11] In 2022, Joncas retired from active ministry and teaching but intends to keep writing music.