Jo Ann 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.
Jo Ann has been a cherished member of the Genesis team for many years. She has led retreats, offered spiritual direction, and helped shape the Genesis guest experience into one of hope, healing, and hospitality.
Details of this retreat
Step away from the noise and renew your soul with an intentional day of silence.
Leave behind daily distractions and busy routines to find your inner center. We will open our time together with a brief gathering, a thoughtful poem, and a reflection on the transformative power of quiet. The rest of the day is yours to spend reading, writing, walking the grounds or the labyrinth, or creating art, supported by a healthy and nourishing lunch.
Before returning to your daily routine, we will come back together for a gentle closing reflection to help you carry this peace and restored balance home with you.
Sally did an excellent job, we combined yoga with meditation and we also got to know each other. I will certainly come back. I enjoyed walking peacefully around the grounds.
Thank you
5.0
Verified
Yoga Retreat for Inner Peace with Sally Barber
I thoroughly enjoyed my first time at Genesis.Food was great, staff helpful and friendly and welcoming, room clean and comfortable. Meeting rooms also lovely.
Thank you for everyting!
5.0
Verified
Autumn labyrinth
The experience was amazing
Very informative and relaxing and a beautiful space. Our leader was so kind and knowledgeable. The food was also really good and I met some wonderful women. It would be wonderful to have this session every season of the year. Maybe not winter..
I look forward to attending other retreats and workshops at Genesis. Many thanks for all you do.
5.0
Verified
Always leave more present, peace-filled
I attended the weekend retreat, "The Shadow and Love: Healing our relationships to self, others and God" with Brother Don Bisson and it was just what was needed prior to the midterm election. Br. Don delivered his characteristic insightful, heartfelt content, sprinkled with crackling wit and loving personal examples, which hit all the right spots. The great food, comfortable & Immaculate surroundings within a beautiful natural setting offered the perfect compliment. I like to do 2-3 annual retreats or other programs at Genesis to put back what my experience of 'the world' seems to take out. Thank you Genesis!
5.0
Verified
shadow and love
I enjoyed the workshop titled Shadow and Love. The speaker was very knowledgeable and provided helpful information. Since the topic can be triggering, my only suggestion would be to combine this workshop with body movement such as yoga.