ABOUT LAURIE
Walking in the
footsteps of the
Walking Madonna
Hi there! I’m Laurie Pandorf, founder of The Wells of Grace, a ministry devoted to accompanying Catholic women who long for deeper spiritual growth and a more intimate relationship with Christ.
For much of my life, I have been a teacher, mentor, and staff developer. Professionally, I serve as a K–5 Instructional Coach and educator, helping teachers grow in their practice and discover their gifts. Prior to entering education, I spent twenty-two years in business, eventually serving as a project manager. Looking back, I can see that God was quietly preparing me through each of these experiences to accompany others on their journey.
Inspired by Mary of the Visitation, I am drawn to the image of the Walking Madonna—Mary carrying Christ within her as she journeys to Elizabeth. She did not simply bring a message; she brought her presence, encouragement, and the living Word. That image has become the foundation of The Wells of Grace and the model for the ministry I hope to offer to women today.
“Now, the Holy Spirit is purifying my steps and strongly urging me to begin my personal mission:
To follow Mary’s footsteps as the Walking Madonna, serving my sisters by delivering the Good News to women waiting to be renewed, encouraged and transformed.”
During the quiet and unexpected season of the COVID pandemic, I found myself drawn more deeply into prayer, spiritual formation, and accompaniment. What began as a personal desire to grow closer to God gradually became a deeper awareness of His invitation on my life.
Through my involvement with the Sisters of Life, parish ministry, and opportunities for spiritual growth and formation, I began to recognize a recurring call: to walk alongside other women as they seek to encounter Jesus more deeply and discover His presence in their everyday lives.
Today, I continue to serve in my parish and the broader Catholic community through writing, mentoring, retreats, faith formation, and leadership in ministry. I am also pursuing certification in theological studies through the University of Notre Dame and serving as a mentor with The Given Institute, accompanying young women as they discern and develop their own ministries and apostolates.
At its heart, my mission is to accompany women on their journey of faith, helping them encounter Christ, grow in grace, and find companionship for the road ahead.
