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Ecological Stations of the Cross: A Journey of Environmental Reflection

Location icon
53 Mill Street, Westfield, MA, USA
Date
April 3, 2026

About this Retreat

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Embark on a transformative journey that intertwines ancient spiritual wisdom with urgent environmental consciousness. Join us for a profound and thought-provoking 90-minute experience that blends spiritual tradition with environmental awareness. Our Ecological Stations of the Cross program offers a unique opportunity to reflect on humanity's impact on the Earth and our role in both environmental degradation and restoration.

The Way of the Cross can be traced to St. Francis of Assisi, who lived at a time when Christian pilgrims could not travel safely to the Holy Land. Francis brought the experience of the Holy Land home, as we bring the Way of the Cross home to our local place of natural beauty. Reflecting on the sufferings of Jesus at each station, we raise the Cross of Christ to remind us that our sister, Mother Earth—our common home—belongs to God, and we ask for strength and unity to care for God's creation.

This immersive experience aims to deepen our understanding of ecological challenges while inspiring hope and commitment to positive change. Join us in this journey of reflection, awareness, and action as we explore our relationship with the Earth and all its inhabitants.

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

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Customer Reviews

4.86 out of 5.0 average rating

5.0
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Nourishing, Beautiful Retreat
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.

5.0
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A Prayerful Evening with the Psalms
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.

5.0
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Be With an Open Heart
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.

1.0
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Lenten Conversation with the Psalms
Due to the blizzard, I was unable to attend

5.0
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The Wisdom of St. Francis
Simon and David led us on a beautiful experience of St. Francis and St. Clare. The music, sharing, dialogue and discussion all helped to create a strong bond between participants. Genesis is a place of peace, hope and healing, and I could feel it the moment I arrived. Thank you to the staff for their hospitality and kindness.

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