Listening to the River of Life: A Contemplative Writing Retreat

Location icon
53 Mill Street, Westfield, MA 01085
Date
April 3 - 6, 2025

About this Retreat

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Details of this retreat

Imagine a world where your untold stories hold the key to unlocking the deepest truths of your existence. Embark on a transformative journey, where the gentle flow of words becomes a powerful current, carrying you towards self-discovery and profound connection.

“Stories have to be told or they die,
and when they die, we can’t remember
who we are or why we’re here.
                                             - Sue Monk Kidd

Life is like a river, generally flowing strong and constant but, at times, hindered by obstacles, churned by storms, and diminished by drought. As we flow through our lives, we gather stories of experiences that need telling. How do we share these stories, for writing demands attentiveness, honesty, courage, imagination, and a willingness to be surprised by grace? Being supported by kindred spirits and communal prayer and conversation can help. To that end, the retreat will be structured to include periods of Centering Prayer, brief talks, writing prompts, and story sharing. There will also be personal time for reading, walking the grounds, resting, or daydreaming. Come to work on a current writing project, begin stories long thought about, or find what needs to be voiced.

Getting Here

Location icon Genesis Spiritual Center, 53 Mill Street, Westfield, MA 01085

Accommodation

Program Price

Customer Reviews

4.95 out of 5.0 average rating

5.0
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Restore and Renew: new year yoga retreat
The retreat facilitator, is well versed in the subject and demonstrates excellent ability to guide participants through various yoga positions and types of yoga practices. The facility is great with a responsive and enthusiastic staff. Highly recommend!

5.0
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just what I needed and didn't know I needed.
This was definitely a unique experience. I knew Nancy Sheridan would be good but I didn't realize its deep impact on my soul. Thank you, not only to Nancy, but to all who made this weekend possible. The Genesis staff was outstanding.

5.0
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Lucy Abbott Tucker
My days at Genesis were days of going home for a reunion with friends and colleagues, embracing the learned wisdom of an excellent teacher, Lucy Abbott Tucker and resting in community in front of a blazing fire in the fireplace. My spirit was nourished and I was at peace.
Thank you Genesis
Chickie Amberg

5.0
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Wonderful experience
This was my first attendance at Genesis . The Experience Was so wonderful. I left feeling closer to God and I left with a great sense of community. The conference. I attended was wonderful. Lucy Abbott Tucker was so amazing. A must attend in your lifetime. It was more than I ever expected.
The facility itself is just beautiful. It’s like a time capsule. The carriage house meditation room upstairs was beautiful with a craft room and a space where You could sit and find peace and silence if you chose.
The staff was amazing. When you first arrive, they orient you to the environment and the different spaces in the house where you could go and find peace. Jean Risk, the massage therapist is magical. She was an amazing Masseuse. You can call and make an appointment and she will meet you there.
The food was absolutely delicious. Made with love and fresh ingredients every day. three delicious meals and snacks. Amazing.
This is a must try for rest, relaxation, renewal or any conference. I cannot say enough positivity about Genesis Spiritual center.

5.0
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Community for Spiritual Companions
Program and content and presentation fabulous.
Center and hospitality really wonderful.
A good time was had by all.Barbara B. Girard

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