Mary Lou Gonzales

A proud Mexican American and the daughter of parents who were once undocumented, she is a woman of deep faith who believes that God is present in all things and that each person is called to a unique mission. Widowed in 2021 after 47 years of marriage, she is the mother of three adult children and grandmother of six.

She brings more than 12 years of leadership experience in nonprofit and family services, with expertise in pastoral leadership, theology, volunteer management, public speaking, and spiritual accompaniment. She holds a bachelor’s degree from Northeastern Illinois University and a Master of Pastoral Studies with a concentration in Hispanic Ministry from Catholic Theological Union. She is a certified Spiritual Director through the Claret Formation Center, a certified Life Coach through Catholic Theological Union, and has additional certifications in Community Development, Human Rights, Scripture Study Facilitation, Addiction and Mental Health (SAMHSA), and HIPAA compliance.

As a bilingual (English and Spanish) Spiritual Director and facilitator for the Claret Center's Spiritual Direction Internship Program, she is passionate about accompanying individuals in their relationship with God and helping future spiritual directors develop the skills, presence, and compassionate listening needed for this sacred ministry. Her ministry is grounded in the belief that every person's story is holy and that attentive listening creates space for healing, discernment, and transformation.