53 Mill Street, Westfield, MA, USA
April 6 - 12, 2025
About this Retreat
JoAnn Bourquard is a seasoned spiritual director who believes that spiritual companioning is a means of healing the soul and, ultimately, the world. She holds the belief that “an unreflected life is not worth living” and that sharing our life story with one who is trained to listen deeply is a path toward personal growth and connection with the Divine.
JoAnn is a retreat director and workshop facilitator. She has a particular interest in journaling and using literature as a means of awakening the soul. With a Master’s Degree in Spirituality and a certificate in Women’s Leadership, JoAnn is a Supervisor to those in formation to become spiritual directors and trains other supervisors. She especially connects with nature as a way into deeper contemplation and joy. She is also experienced in teaching the Enneagram.
JoAnn presents a range of programs throughout the Northeast and is involved in the spiritual discernment process with individuals and groups in transition. She accompanies people of all faiths, including those seeking but not identifying with a particular tradition. She has accompanied men and women with serious illnesses, those who are dying, and people dealing with grief and loss of all types.
Details of this retreat
Embark on a transformative journey of self-discovery and spiritual growth during our immersive silent-directed retreat, where you will have the opportunity to explore the guiding presence of the Spirit in a deeply enriching environment.
During a silent-directed retreat, each participant meets daily with an experienced spiritual director who serves as a spiritual companion throughout the retreat. Utilizing their specialized training, conversations with your spiritual director will enhance your prayer experience and help you discern where the Spirit might be leading you. Aside from these daily conversations, you can set aside the time for your own personal prayer, journaling, art, exploration of the grounds at Genesis, spiritual reading, or your choice of contemplative practices. Your retreat is unstructured so you can take the opportunity for rest or reflection throughout our grounds and facility.