Nature's Wisdom: A Spiritual Evening Experience

I attended the yoga retreat as a commuter, and had an excellent experience! Sally is a phenomenal teacher, instructor, guide, and director. I enjoyed the grounds thoroughly, and all of the Genesis staff were friendly and welcoming. The communal experience was peaceful and restorative as well. I felt inspired, renewed, awakened, and refreshed by the end - and I am already looking forward to the next retreat!

Mark Burrows was outstanding—his presentations were both inspiring and deeply engaging. He brings a profound understanding of the Mystics and skillfully weaves it together with poetry to create something truly beautiful. Genesis is a sacred place of peace and renewal, and I look forward to returning for future retreats.

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.

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.

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.