Lisa Brenninkmeyer

Lisa Brenninkmeyer is the founder and CEO of Walking with Purpose, a Catholic women's ministry that has expanded from a single parish Bible study into a nationwide faith movement. A convert to Catholicism, Brenninkmeyer identified a need for contemporary Catholic Bible studies that would engage and support young mothers. Motivated by stories of women seeking a safe environment to explore faith and find renewal, she established Walking with Purpose to address these needs.

With the support of her Maryland parish, Brenninkmeyer began a weekly Bible study, which quickly grew to serve dozens of women seeking spiritual growth and community. As the program's impact became more widely recognized, Walking with Purpose was formally established as a nonprofit Catholic women's ministry. The organization now operates in hundreds of parishes across the United States, Europe, and Canada, supporting thousands of women in deepening their relationship with Jesus Christ.

Brenninkmeyer is an author whose work covers a range of spiritual and faith-based topics. She has written numerous Walking with Purpose Bible studies, which have received the Imprimatur through Archbishop Lori of the Archdiocese of Baltimore. Her book, "Walking with Purpose: Seven Priorities that Make Life Work," has reached a broad audience. Additional titles include "Opening Your Heart," "Fearless and Free: Experience Healing and Wholeness in Christ," and "Discovering Our Dignity." Her writing portfolio also features Bible studies for adult women, a young adult series, a mentoring program for high school girls, a curriculum for middle school girls, and several devotionals.

Brenninkmeyer has extended her ministry to younger audiences through the BLAZE program, designed to address cultural challenges that influence girls' perceptions of value, purpose, and faith. BLAZE aims to make biblical wisdom accessible and relevant, helping girls develop a personal relationship with Jesus Christ and distinguish supportive spiritual guidance from negative societal messages. She also co-hosts the "Hope for Right Now: A Walking with Purpose Podcast" with Catholic author and speaker Laura Phelps, offering faith-based encouragement and hope to women.

Brenninkmeyer has been recognized by the Catholic Leadership Institute as a National Catholic Leader and has presented at the USCCB Convocation of Catholic Leaders. She has shared the Walking with Purpose model at national conferences and has appeared as a guest on various radio, television, and podcast programs. Her speaking engagements include presentations at the Amazing Parish Program's national conferences and Fellowship of Catholic University Students national events. As a speaker, Brenninkmeyer addresses topics such as finding joy, overcoming anxiety, and strengthening marriages, providing Catholic content for conferences and events. She holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in psychology from St. Olaf College and is pursuing a master's degree in theology from Franciscan University of Steubenville.