Deb Ondo is the Communications and Engagement Manager at the Food Bank of Western Massachusetts. Previously, she served as Program and Marketing Manager at Genesis. Her career spans media and nonprofits in Massachusetts and New York, and has earned her five prestigious broadcast Emmy awards for excellence in television. A lifelong artist, with a deep passion for nature, Deb is especially drawn to the Universe Story and ecospirituality. Her paintings explore humanity’s interconnectedness with the natural world, reflecting the belief that all beings are part of a living, interconnected whole. Her paintings can be found at https://www.debondowildart.com/
Details of this retreat
Much of daily life pulls us toward constant output, gradually dulling our capacity to notice what is alive around and within us. Lent invites a pause.
In this one-hour online gathering, we will explore creativity as a form of relationship rather than as individual achievement. Through reflection, silence, and simple creative invitations, participants will engage with the spiritually resonant patterns of the natural world—its rhythms, changes, and reciprocity.
Grounded in contemplative practice, this gathering cultivates attention, listening, and curiosity. Here, creativity is not about producing something new but about remembering our belonging within a larger, living cosmos and noticing what our experiences are longing to express now.
No artistic background is needed. All creative orientations, belief systems, and spiritual paths are welcome.
Customer Reviews
4.86 out of 5.0 average rating
5.0
Verified
Nourishing, Beautiful Retreat
The Divine Feminine Retreat with Shannon K. Evans was truly wonderful. It was a nourishing blend of quiet, contemplative time to reflect, and intimate, interactive time within the small, supportive community of our group. Our group is hoping that Shannon will return to lead us in another retreat; I would sign up right away for that and eagerly look forward to attending. Additionally, I had never been to Genesis before, and absolutely have it on my radar now for other programs and as a healing sanctuary.
5.0
Verified
A Prayerful Evening with the Psalms
I enjoyed the presentation and the sharing. However, I would have preferred to have at least three evenings on this topic for the Lenten Season.
5.0
Verified
Be With an Open Heart
I spent time with JoAnn Bourquard a few years ago when I was on a day-long retreat at Genesis Spiritual Center. We meditated together and I opened my heart to her for spiritual guidance. She deeply listened, attentive and present with me, as I shared some difficult challenges I was having in my life. I clearly remember her gently and kindly responding with a phrase, "you have your work cut out for you". I have accepted that gift from her, without even being entirely certain what she meant, as part of my daily spiritual practice since then.
This most recent Zoom experience with her, dedicated to reflecting on this season of Lent and what it means for each of us who were there on the screen, was also a gift. Guided by JoAnn, we had opportunities to pray, meditate, and share aloud about our daily spiritual practice, whatever it is. All experiences validated and accepted. No judgement if we weren't Catholic or even Christian. I am a Buddhist practitioner and I felt completely welcomed. I offered to share with the group a poem I had written for Lent and read it tearfully. God and the Universe are indeed good to me when I open my heart to them. Blessings, Jennifer D.
1.0
Verified
Lenten Conversation with the Psalms
Due to the blizzard, I was unable to attend
5.0
Verified
The Wisdom of St. Francis
Simon and David led us on a beautiful experience of St. Francis and St. Clare. The music, sharing, dialogue and discussion all helped to create a strong bond between participants. Genesis is a place of peace, hope and healing, and I could feel it the moment I arrived. Thank you to the staff for their hospitality and kindness.
Last Chance
Top Rated
Online
Verified
