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SEPTEMBER 2021 - FEBRUARY 2022FALL/WINTER CATALOGrest pray renewSpiritual Life & Conference CenterA Sponsored Ministry of the Sisters of Providence
“Genesis is a place to deepen your spiritual roots and spread your spiritual branches.” Liz Walz, Executive Directorexecutive directorLiz WalzDear Friends of Genesis,A world made new is possible with intentionand prayer!Benedictine Sister Joan Chittister offered thismessage to our community of communitiesduring a live-streamed event in July,honoring Genesis’ 45th Anniversary Year.Eight other retreat centers participated andmore than 400 people from around thecountry joined us online for an hour longpresentation by Sr. Joan. Then, together, wereflected on the important role each of us hasto play in reflecting Holy light, particularly indreary times.Genesis MissionEach of us is a seed of God that is meant to grow into thelikeness of God. Genesis Spiritual Life and Conference Center isa place where the seed can be nourished towards full maturity.The mission of Genesis Spiritual Life and Conference Center isMore than seven inches of rain have broughtlushness to Genesis’ grounds and gardens– I picked a zucchini today that was threetimes the size of my forearm! And Genesis’lower level has flooded four times withinten days. We are indebted to the goodfolks at Providence Place for wet-vacuums,dehumidifiers, and hours of labor in helpingus preserve as best we could the floors,carpets and furnishings. Please join us inpraying and acting on behalf of our Earth,as we take concrete steps to mitigate theclimate crisis.All of us at Genesis are humbled by the loveand support you, our guest, donors, sponsors,and partners in ministry have shown Genesisin this, our anniversary year. We look forwardto seeing you in the hallways.to create an environment that will reveal the love of God for allcreation and bring hope and healing to all who come.In Providence,Liz Walz, ASP2 Fall/Winter 2021-2022
Genesis School for Contemplative Living2022-2023 CohortResidential weekends at Genesis:2022: Sept. 22 – 25, Nov. 11 – 13 2023: Jan. 20 – 22; Mar. 24 – 26; May 11 – 14Do you have a hunger for a more deeply rooted spiritual life? Are you seeking answers to theperennial questions of life? Would you like to live in a slower, more contemplative manner? If so,then consider participating in the Genesis School for Contemplative Living. Our next cohort willbegin in September, 2022.With five residential weekends, and in-person or online group meetings in between sessions, theschool is a nine month formation program for the contemplative journey, rooted in the Christianwisdom tradition and an emerging interspiritual, ecological, and socially engaged framework.Applications can be downloaded from GenesisSpiritualCenter.org and are due August 1, 2022. Formore information, contact Liz Walz at 413-562-3627 or email lizw@GenesisSpiritualCenter.org.The GSCL qualifies for CEU credits through the Elms College. 2,800 if paid in two or more installments or 2,500 if paid in full by August 1, 2022. Financial aidis available.“I think the most supportive aspect of the school was“The spirit, the trees, the people, the food, thethe time spent at Genesis. I felt so plugged in to mywelcome. It is a special, spirit filled ambiance.”contemplative heart and could truly listen.” GSCL participant GSCL participantMay we hear what is being asked of us.For 45 years, Genesis has been a spiritual bedrock of the community and, since 1976, has provided hopeand healing for thousands of people each year. Our guests affirm our mission – telling us that what wedo brings forth heartfelt, deeply impactful and life-changing experiences. Our programs are designedto help you experience God’s love for all creation, healing and growth of body, mind, and spirit, and adeepening of your relationship with self, community and our planet Earth. In this season of harvestand inward reflection, please join us onsite or virtually – we look forward to welcoming you.“Being at Genesis provides the perfect balance betweenbeing cared for & being on my own.”
RETREATS,SABBATICALS& SPIRITUAL DIRECTIONGenesis offers several models of retreat, all ofwhich feature time for reflection, integration,reading, and movement. Often, silent dining isencouraged during mealtimes. Mass is offeredduring most retreats, although not daily. Wedo offer transportation to nearby parishes forliturgy upon request.Silent Directed Retreat vary in length.Retreatants meet daily with their Director orSpiritual Companion for one-on-one sessions,who may also make suggestions for furtherreflection (prayer, Scripture, poetry, music,imagery, etc.).SabbaticalsHe said to his disciples, ‘Comeaway to some distant place all byyourselves and rest for awhile,’ forthere were so many coming andgoing that there was not time forthem even to eat.” Mark 6:31Do you hear a familiar echowithin this invitation? Arethere so many people or thingsin your life, ministry, or work“coming and going” that youhave little time left for quietreflection? In a relaxed andinformal atmosphere, Genesisoffers you time and space forrest, reflection, reading, andthe pursuit of your individualinterests.One of our staff members canassist you in planning your ownprogram. Sabbatical space isavailable for a one-month stay,or up to nine!4Fall/Winter 2021-2022Silent BioSpiritualFocusing Retreat—The format of theseretreas is similar toSilent DirectedRetreats, and focuseson noticing andnurturing feelings heldwithin your body. Thereis a daily meeting witha director.Spiritual DirectionDo you wish to deepen yourspiritual journey? Would youlike to integrate your spiritualinsights into your life choices?How is spirit present in yourdaily life? Meeting regularlywith a professionally trainedSpiritual Director can helpyou expand your spiritual lifeexperiences. Genesis has astaff of professionally trainedDirectors with various areasexpertise, including aging,body image and food issues,grief and loss, and 12-StepSpirituality and recovery issues.To learn more, please contactthe Genesis office 413-562-3627.Guided Retreatis facilitated by oneor two leaders whooffer daily grouppresentations,prayer and/or ritualon a selected topicor theme, over thecourse of a weekendor week.Supervision for SpiritualDirectorsSupervision has long beenconsidered an essential tool forindividuals who offer spiritualdirection. It is an opportunityto explore the movement ofthe Sacred in both the spiritualdirector and the spiritualdirectee. Spiritual directionsupervision supports thecare and growth of spiritualdirectors in service of theseekers they accompany andfocuses on the spiritual directorso he/she can better serve theseeker and their relationshipwith God.Genesis staff provides peersupervision/group supervisionor individual supervision forspiritual directors. If you are aspiritual director who is seekingsupervision, please contact theGenesis office at 413-562-3627.
BIOSPIRITUALFOCUSINGBioSpiritual Focusing re-awakens your senses and allows yourbody’s wisdom to guide you into greater wholeness. It is “sensing”unique personal meanings and directions that come from deepinside you. As you immerse yourself in this life-giving and lifechanging process, you will become more aware of the sacred thatyou carry in your body and the movement of Grace in your life.“When you seek me, you will find me. Seek me with all yourheart. I am in the story you are living and you will find methere.” Bits of Light and Grace, Kathy Sherman, CSJ“As a therapist, I bring BSF toclients when it feels right,and they have responded verySedeiusmod bringsfavorably.BioSpiritualitytempormore self-loveinto one’slife bySed do eiusmodtemporincididuntut laboreet dolorevirtue ofmakingit possibletomagna aliqua. citation ullam-2022 BioSpiritual Focusing: Day of PresenceSaturday, January 22, 20229:00am – 5:00pm 80, includes lunchFacilitated by the BioSpiritual Focusing Leadership TeamThis workshop is an overview and introduction to the historyand practice of BioSpiritual Focusing and includes prayer,presentations, experiential exercises, reflection, and discussion.No prior experience with Focusing is needed. This workshop isa prerequisite for other BioSpiritual Focusing programs.BioSpiritual 5-DayDirected RetreatSunday to Friday,January 9-14, 2022. 500genesisspiritualcenter.orgFacilitated by the BioSpiritualFocusing Leadership TeamA Silent BioSpiritual Focusingretreat will guide you to thedeepest levels of awarenessinside your body and augmentyour presence to self, othersand God. The practical andsimple framework for yourretreat will be meeting withyour Focusing Companioneach day.truly experienceOnenessco laboris nisitheut aliquipex eacommodoconsequat.of whichwe areall a part.When I am Focusing, beingkind to myself and allowing myfeelings to just be what they are,invariably I begin to experiencethat we are all One.”—Book Study and PracticumParticipantBioSpiritualFocusing Book Studyand PracticumWednesdays, September 15,22, 29, October 6, 13, 20, 27,November 3.6:30-8:30pm. 175Facilitated by the BioSpiritualFocusing Leadership TeamExplore the practice ofBioSpiritual Focusing, based onthe book written by Fr. Peter A.Campbell, Ph.D. and Fr. EdwinM. McMahon, Ph.D, entitled,Rediscovering the Lost BodyConnection Within ChristianSpirituality.Deepen yourconnection with,“The One in whomwe live and moveand have our being.”genesisspiritualcenter.org5
CHRISTO-CENTRICGrace in Motion Tuesdays, September. 14 - October 12th, 6:30 - 8:00pm 55 for five sessions ( 12 for drop-in)Facilitated by Christine ThibodeauA moving celebration of spirit praise God! All dance and fitness levelscelebrated you can even dance in a chair! In this fun and easy danceclass, we join in loving community to express our love for God, our lovefor all of humanity, and for our deepest self. Enjoy the camaraderie ofdancing with others to beautiful and fun Christian music and prayer.All faiths and beliefs welcome! Bring two yoga mats or use the ones atGenesis. Guests will sign a release form.Conspire 2021: Living Inside God’s Great StoryFriday to Sunday, September 24 – 26, 375Virtual live stream at Genesis, in community, prayer and ritual.Facilitated by James Finley, Barbara Holmes, Jacqui Lewis, BrianMcLaren, Richard Rohr, and Mirabai StarrHaving ChallengingConversations withGrace, Respect and EaseFree virtual program,Wednesday, September 15,7:00-8:00pmFacilitated by The Reverend Dr.Eileen EppersonWe often avoid conversations wethink will not go well. Join this freeone-hour session to hear froma communication coach aboutfive reliable tips to practice beinghonest with grace and ease.6Fall/Winter 2021-2022Join thousands of spiritual seekers from across the world forthe final CONSPIRE conference from The Center for Action andContemplation. This is a global online gathering to experienceGod’s love, grace, and compassion.Discover your place among theemerging contemplative movement as six of the most prolificspiritual teachers of our time unite Richard Rohr’s seven themesof alternative orthodoxy in an exploration of the Great Story Lineconnecting us all in the One Great Life.Making Room for the Holy8-WEEK Virtual program, Thursdays, September 30, October 7, 14,21, 28, November 4, 11, 18 - 6:30-8:00pm - 160Facilitated by The Reverend Dr. Eileen EppersonThere is an unnoticed spiritual cost to keeping clutter in ourlives. What kind of clutter? Both exterior and interior. By keepingclutter unnoticed, both outside and inside, we can clog up ourpipe of Being that connects us to the Divine.This fall, let us harvest our relationship with God with loving selfreflection and self-acceptance. We will meet each week for 90minutes sharing our victories and challenges. Limited space.
Teilhard De Chardin & Jung: Awakening the Fires of LoveFriday to Sunday, October 15-17, 2021 (Don via Zoom) On-site and VirtualFacilitated by Br. Don Bisson, FMSOnsite: 305. Virtual: 200These two great 20th century scientists discovered the power and force ofenergy both within and without. Through the insights and breakthroughs ofboth science and mysticism we are aware of the power of Love as the greatestpower of the universe. This retreat will encourage us to connect deeply with thefires of love which propel our psyches and universe to spiritual transformation.The dialogue between the energy of the cosmos and the True Self within will bediscussed, especially towards mystical consciousness.“Come to the Table” Women’sMinistry RetreatCelebrate God’sTender DawningSaturday, October 23, 9:00am - 3:00pm 40, includes lunchFriday to Sunday,December 3 – 5, 2021, 305Facilitated by Val Liptak, Michele Suhocki,and Joanne MurphyFacilitated byNancy Y. Sheridan, SASV“The Gift of Grace.” During this retreat wewill spend time looking at stories of God’sgrace through the lives of people in thebible. This day will be a time to becomemore aware of God’s grace and presencein our lives. There will be talks, time forreflection and small group discussion.An annual Advent GuidedRetreat: Our gathering willinclude guided reflection, amplequiet moments, ritual and faithsharing. The retreat guide will be available for individualconversations on Saturday and early Sunday. Come tocelebrate Advent’s dawning!Mindful & Compassionate FaithFriday to Sunday, November 19-21, 2021, 305Facilitated by Christina LeañoWould you like to give yourself the same kind regard you give to loved ones?Mindful self-compassion practice will be the focus of this weekend. Christinawill guide participants to open their inner doorways wider to the gifts,graces and peace of the Holy Spirit. With practical suggestions, inspirationalstories, humor, through Christina’s trademark gentle and clear presentationstyle, you are sure to leave this retreat more grounded and connected toSource and feeling refreshed.genesisspiritualcenter.org7
Prayerful Pause at Year’sEnd RetreatDIRECTED RETREATSThursday to Saturday,December 30, 2021-January 1, 2022, 3056-Day Silent Directed RetreatOptional arrival on December 29th or departure onJanuary 2nd, 75 each additional nightSunday to Saturday, Oct. 3-9, 2021. 560Facilitated by Sr. Elizabeth Oleksak, SP Liz Walz, ASP,Fr. Norm Comtois, OMIOur time together in retreat will be in shared silencewith contemplative reflection on the past year anddeepening into this in-between time, liminality.On New Year’s Day, we will celebrate Eucharist andengage in Genesis’ traditional blessing of timepiecesas we turn toward the year aheadThe Luminous Gospels: Thomas,Mary Magdalene, and PhilipFacilitated by Jo Ann Bourquard and MaryMacGillivray5-Day Silent Directed RetreatSunday to Friday, Nov. 14-19, 2021. 500Facilitated by Sr. Jane Comerford, CSJand Yvonne Prowse5-Day Silent Directed RetreatSunday to Friday, Jan. 9-14, 2022. 500Facilitated by Jo Ann BourquardFriday to Sunday, January 14-16, 2022, 3052022 Silent Directed RetreatsFacilitated by Rev. Matthew WrightMay 22-28August 7-13Margaret Galiardi, SPNancy Sheridan,SASUJoin us for a weekend of teaching and practice,exploring the early Christian Wisdom Gospels ofThomas, Mary Magdalene, and Philip. These textscame to light in the mid-20th century and give usnew insight into the development of early Christianity,the metaphysics undergirding Jesus’ teaching, andthe apostolic authority of Mary Magdalene. Takentogether, they offer a map of the human journey fromtimelessness into time, and finally into consciousunion—a journey that unfolds within what Jesus calls“the bridal chamber” of the heart.Introduction to the EnneagramSaturday, February 26, 9:30am-3:30pmEllen Keane, SNDJune 19-25Ruth Duffy, SNDJanet Weber, SNDNicki Verploegen.Ph.D.September25-October 1Ruth Duffy, SNDJuly 10-17Kitty Hanley, CSJPaula TinlinJane Comerford, CSJSuzanne NolanLOOK AHEAD! 50, Includes lunchEaster Triduum ReteatFacilitated by JoAnn BourquardThursday-Sunday, April 14-17, 435The Enneagram is an archetypal framework forreflection and growth, offering in-depth insight toindividuals and groups. This is a day-long programdesigned for those who are new to the Enneagram.You will receive an overview of the nine types and willparticipate through questions, exercise, and reflection.The class is designed for those new to the topic.Facilitated by Fr. Norm Comtois, OMI; JoAnnBourquard; Karen Fisk; Liz Walz, ASP8Fall/Winter 2021-2022Join us as we take a contemplative and cosmiclook at the Paschal Mystery based on Jesusas Wisdom Teacher. This retreat will includepresentations, Holy Week liturgies and rituals,group dialog, and time for personal reflection.
SPIRITUAL ENRICHMENT & CREATIVE EXPRESSIONOff the Edges &Outside the LinesDesigning Your Own CelticCross & MandalaFriday to Sunday, October 29-31, 2021, 330Friday to Sunday, February 18 –20, 2022, 330Facilitated by Joy VaughanFacilitated by Sadelle WiltshireDrawing on themes from her book, Off theEdges and Outside the Lines, Joy’s retreat isfor people who are in crisis or want a spiritualpractice that includes image making. Increaseyour intuitive faculties and try out ideas onpaper without facing criticism or judgment. Artmaterials will be available. You may bring anyart materials you are comfortable using. Artphobic individuals are encouraged to attend.The meditative qualities of drawing andmaking mandalas has long been known, aswell as more recently, the peace that coloringa beautiful design can bring. Come join usand learn to design your own mandala - witha Celtic twist. If you have no experiencewhatsoever I’ll show you a simple Celtic knotyou can use, and then show you all the tipsand tricks I have to streamline the process.Opening to the LightFriday, October 29, 2021 – 7:00-8:00pm andSaturday, October 30, 2021 – 10:00-11:30amOn-Site 175. Virtutal 100. Facilitated byPaula D’ArcyDrawing on themes from her newest book, Starsat Night: When Darkness Unfolds as Light, Paulawill explore how learning to move through andpast life’s inevitable disappointments and lossesopens a door to new awareness.Steward Your Literary LegacyFriday to Sunday, Feb 25-27, 2022, 330Facilitated by Suzi Banks-BaumIn this retreat, we will work with our journals, letters, daybooks, calendars, andother writings to harvest stories and memories into a small book, made duringthe workshop. You will review selected pieces that you’ve written, generatenew writing, and create a plan for how to handle your personal writing withreverence, ceremony, and in community. We will create a ritual to releasesome of the writings in a ceremony on Sunday morning.Genesis Program and Retreat Registration, Deposit and Cancellation Policies Register and pay online via PayPal, by phone using a credit card, or by sending a check via US mail. For online registrations, your reservation is not confirmed until we contact you. Registrations for overnight and weekend programs require 100 deposit upon registration.Registration for programs 3 nights or longer require 150 deposit upon registration. Payment in full isrequired 14 days prior to program start. Cancellations: 14 days or more before start of event, receive full refund, less 35 processing fee. Lessthan 14 days, deposit is non-refundable. If Genesis cancels an event, you will receive a full refund.genesisspiritualcenter.org9
ECO-SPIRITUALITYWelcoming AutumnSaturday, September 18, 2021, 9:30am to 12noon 30 ( 45 if staying for lunch)Facilitated by Sr. Jane Comerford, CSJCome celebrate the official beginning of Autumn.Join others in ritual as you harvest the abundance ofthose ideas and dreams that came to fruition duringthe summer. This morning retreat will focus on thethemes of the season, concluding with a ritual tohonor the arrival of Autumn!Meditative Nature Drawing:Walk, See & Sketch BeautifulPatterns in NatureSaturday, September 18, 2021, 9:00am - 3:00pm 65 (includes lunch)Facilitated by Sadelle WiltshireA day-long workshop that includes connecting with nature and our sketchbooks, looking for the leafy,flower and organic patterns we find as we explore the surrounding woods and gardens in a quiet,contemplative manner. (Please bring water proof pen, pencil, eraser, water colors & sketchbook.)RECOVERY11th Step Weekend RetreatFriday to Sunday, November 12 - 14, 2021Facilitated by Sr. Madeleine Joy, SP 305. Financial support is available.Come join us to refresh and renew your spirituality as we focus on Step 11: “We sought throughprayer and meditation to improve our conscious contact with God as we understand God,praying for the knowledge of God’s will for us and for the power to carry that out.”10Fall/Winter 2021-2022
MOVEMENTYoga withKathyNiedzieiskiAlign your inner and outer self with breathingpractices and movements designed to strengthenand tone the body, and meditation to foster theseeds of change that will bloom in the spring.Autumn Yoga JourneyThursdays, September 30-November 18, 6:30 – 7:45pm 85 for the entire 8 weeks, 70 for your choice of anysix weeks, 12 per class. Pre-registration required.In the Heart of AutumnRestorative YogaHEALING ARTSThe Genesis Healing Arts team offersindividual sessions by appointment.Jo Ann Bourquard—Spiritual DirectionMegan Elliott*—Certified Integral YogaTherapy, Thai Yoga Massage, PositionalTherapyMadeleine Joy, SP—12-Step RecoverysponsorshipChristina Leaño, Associate Directorof the Global Catholic ClimateMovement— Virutal spiritual Direction forenvironmental advocates and activists.Ruth McGoldrick, SP—BioSpiritualFocusing and Spiritual DirectionDonna O’Connor—BioSpiritual Focusingand Spiritual DirectionElizabeth Oleksak, SP—BioSpiritualFocusing and Spiritual DirectionSunday, November 7, 2021, 2:00 – 4:00pmJean Risk—Massage Therapy andOncology Massage Therapy 35. Pre-registration required.Lisa Wilson—Massage TherapyShort Winter’s Nap –Restorative Yoga WorkshopTo learn more, call 413-562-3627.*To contact Megan, emailconnect@meganelliottyoga.com.Sunday, January 23, 2022, 2:00 to 4:00 pm 35. Pre-registration required.Yoga as Embodied Prayer: Reflectingthe Light Within Weekend RetreatFriday - Sunday, February 11-13, 2022 305.CALL 413-562-3627 TO LEARN MOREAND RSVP FOR ONE OF OUR GROUPHOPE & HEALING SESSIONS.COMPLIMENTARY HOPE& HEALING SESSIONSThe Coronavirus pandemic took a tollon our lives and changed the worldimmeasurably. We are collectively stillcarrying the impact in our bodies andpsyches. Come enjoy a facilitated sessionand time on the grounds to relax, reflectand renew your spirit. Lunch or supperincluded.Minimum of 6 people required persession, maximum of 15.genesisspiritualcenter.org11
53 Mill St, Westfield, MA 01085GenesisSpiritualCenter.orgFOLLOW US ON SOCIAL MEDIAEvent, Meeting & Conference SpaceWe welcome groups to hold meetings, conferences and events at Genesis, a lovely alternative to busymeeting sites. Groups may rent space for day or evening events, or multi-day programs that require overnightaccommodations.The Carriage House is a unique conference center with the character and beauty of a historic building. Anoriginal structure built in 1889, the Carriage House was renovated in 1990. Conference rooms are spaciousand private, conducive to productive work, training or planning sessions.Blessing of the AnimalsSaturday, Oct 9th, 11:00am-12:00pmRain date, Sunday, Oct 10Facilitated by Sr. Elizabeth Oleksak, SPFree and open to the public. This custom is conducted inremembrance of Saint Francis of Assisi’s love for all creatures.New Life Garden andProvidence Arboretum—Many people choose to honoror memorialize loved ones witha gift to our New Life Garden.Please call 413-562-3627 orvisit us online to learn more.
pipe of Being that connects us to the Divine. This fall, let us harvest our relationship with God with loving self-reflection and self-acceptance. We will meet each week for 90 minutes sharing our victories and challenges. Limited space. CHRISTO-CENTRIC 6 Fall/Winter 2021-2022 Having Challenging Conversations with Grace, Respect and Ease
