Rhonda Gruenewald
Rhonda Gruenewald is the passionate founder of Vocation Ministry, a nationwide nonprofit dedicated to fostering a culture of vocations in parishes, schools, and families. A convert to Catholicism, Rhonda brings a unique perspective and boundless enthusiasm to her work, inspiring Catholics across the country to say YES to God’s call.
Her journey began in 2011 when a priest’s personal invitation sparked her involvement in promoting vocations. With no prior knowledge of vocation ministry, Rhonda embraced the mission with a heart open to the Holy Spirit, creating resources and initiatives that would eventually transform how the Church approaches vocations.
Under her leadership, Vocation Ministry has equipped thousands of priests, educators, and laypeople with practical tools to inspire young people to discern their call to priesthood, consecrated life, or holy marriage. Since its founding, the ministry has partnered with over 75 dioceses and reached more than 14,000 clergy and laity through workshops, training sessions, and resources like her books Hundredfold: A Guide to Parish Vocation Ministry and The Harvest: A Guide to Vocation Ministry in Education.
Rhonda’s mission is driven by the pressing need for vocations. In the U.S., the number of priests has dropped by 12% in the last 10 years, and religious sisters have declined by over 29%. Through her work, she hopes to reverse this trend and ensure that every parish, school, and family plays an active role in fostering vocations.
As a dynamic speaker and author, Rhonda has addressed clergy and laity nationwide, sharing her journey of faith and the profound impact of creating a culture of vocations. Her work continues to bear fruit as parishes, schools, and dioceses implement her strategies and witness young people responding to God’s call.
When she’s not traveling for workshops or speaking engagements, Rhonda enjoys time with her husband, David, and their two children. She credits her conversion to Catholicism and vocation ministry work to God’s grace and the power of simply saying YES to His plan.
Learn more about Rhonda’s work and explore resources to start or grow a vocation ministry in your community at VocationMinistry.com. Together, let’s inspire a future filled with joyful, faith-filled vocations!