Christian Living

To live as a Christian means to embody a life deeply rooted in love for God, humanity, and all of creation. A Christian is one who seeks to follow Christ’s example by cultivating simplicity, compassion, and joy in daily life. This transformative relationship with God influences how one treats others and the world. It involves seeing God’s presence in everyday experiences, practicing gratitude, and actively working for peace and justice. It means developing a reverence for all creation, embracing a balance of contemplative prayer and engaged action, and striving to be an instrument of God’s love in the world. Christian spirituality integrates faith with social and environmental concerns, always seeking to grow in love and to share that love with others.

Central to this Christian life is active participation in the rituals and practices of the faith community. This includes engaging in regular worship and prayer, observing sacred seasons, and incorporating faith practices into daily routines. Christians are called to be part of a faith community, participating in fellowship and service activities. Through these shared experiences and practices, Christians deepen their faith, strengthen communal bonds, and continually renew their commitment to living out their beliefs in the world.

Key Aspects:

• Walking in the footsteps of Christ
• Finding God in ritual and practice
• Incarnational Theology and Reverence for Creation
• Contemplation and Action: Commitment to Prayer, Peace and Justice
• Finding God in the Everyday: Living a life of Love, Joy and Gratitude

In essence, this perspective on Christian spirituality offers a way of life that is both deeply rooted in tradition and radically relevant to contemporary challenges. It invites believers to experience the transformative power of God’s love in all aspects of their lives and to become agents of that love in the world.

The innovative programs and welcoming environment of Genesis Spiritual Life Center create a transformative sanctuary for individuals seeking to deepen their Christian living through holistic spiritual growth. By offering retreats, workshops, and spiritual direction, Genesis provides diverse opportunities for participants to cultivate compassion, enhance their faith, and engage meaningfully with God and others. Genesis embodies a living approach to Christian spirituality that honors the sacred in every moment, every person, and every aspect of creation. 

Some Topics Related to Christian Living include:

Join us on a transformative journey of Christian living, where you can actively embody God’s love through compassionate action, engage in deep spiritual practices, and explore the sacred in every moment, person, and aspect of creation.

Upcoming Christian Living programs

BioSpiritual Focusing 10 Week Book Study and Practicum

With Mike Smoolca and Peri Boyle

February 18 - April 22, 2026

Genesis Spiritual Life and Conference Center

Envision a space where science and spiritual insight meet, transforming your body into a channel for sacred knowledge.  Join us for a transformative journey of self-discovery with our BioSpiritual Focusing 10-week book study and practicum. Delve into the profound insights of Fr. Peter A. Campbell and Fr. Edwin M. McMahon's…

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The Wisdom of St. Francis of Assisi

With Simon de Voil and David Wallace

February 20 - 22, 2026

Genesis Spiritual Life and Conference Center

Step into a world where radical simplicity and profound joy illuminate the path—what happens when ancient wisdom meets modern longing for meaning? Join Simon de Voil and David Wallace for a transformative 5-part journey into the spiritual depth and beauty of the Franciscan tradition. Through conversation, reflection, and song, we’ll…

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Lenten Conversations: A Prayerful Evening with the Psalms – Virtual Program

With Jo Ann Bourquard

February 24, 2026

VIRTUAL PROGRAM

Rediscovering the Psalms for reflection during Lent 2026 offers a powerful, meditative, and communal path to deepening our spiritual life. These ancient poems, born from times of trouble, serve as a relevant, timeless guide to the Holy, offering comfort, inspiration, and a focus on divine hope.  Let us gather for an experience of conversation,…

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Living with Real Presence: Eucharist as an Approach to Life – Virtual Book Study Group

With Joseph Krans, OFS

February 26 - March 26, 2026

Genesis Spiritual Life and Conference Center

“If we do not become the real presence of Christ… if, when we leave the church, we don’t see Christ in others and seek to be Christ for others… then we do not truly understand the real presence of Christ.” With these challenging and inspiring words at heart, this 5-week…

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Lenten Conversations: A Season of Paradox – Observing Lent through the Lens of Nature – Virtual Program

With Colleen Mollica

March 10, 2026

VIRTUAL PROGRAM

In this tender season between winter’s rest and spring’s renewal, Lent invites us to dwell in the mystery of waiting—trusting that new life will emerge. In early March, traces of winter still linger, yet signs of spring are also beginning to appear. It is an ambivalent time. Themes of life…

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The Divine Feminine: Experiencing Healing and Liberation by Reclaiming Images of the Divine

With Shannon K. Evans

March 13 - 15, 2026

Genesis Spiritual Life and Conference Center

Are you curious about what people mean when they speak of “the divine feminine,” and wonder if you have permission to speak that yourself? This integral perspective of the Christian tradition is often overlooked for more masculine images of God. However, all aspects of God are part of our tradition.…

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Lenten Conversations: Creativity as Spiritual Renewal – Virtual Program

With Deb Ondo

March 24, 2026

VIRTUAL PROGRAM

Much of daily life pulls us toward constant output, gradually dulling our capacity to notice what is alive around and within us. Lent invites a pause. In this one-hour online gathering, we will explore creativity as a form of relationship rather than as individual achievement. Through reflection, silence, and simple…

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Heartwork for Daily Life: An Invitation to Journey with Christian Mystics

With Mark Burrows

March 27 - 29, 2026

Genesis Spiritual Life and Conference Center

There is a river running through the heart of Christianity, deep and ancient—yet many have never tasted its waters. The tradition of Christian mysticism is an ancient and varied source of inspiration and provocation. Yet it has not always received the recognition it deserves. Those we call “mystics” were often at…

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Silent Directed Retreat – 4 Day – Holy Week

With Jo Ann Bourquard

March 29 - April 2, 2026

Genesis Spiritual Life and Conference Center

Enter into the sacred rhythm of Holy Week through a transformative four-day silent-directed retreat. This retreat invites you to accompany Christ through the days leading to Easter in a spirit of deep listening, prayer, and renewal. Each day, participants meet privately with an experienced spiritual director who serves as a…

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Silent Directed Retreat – 4 Day – Holy Week

With Fr. Michael Broderick

March 29 - April 2, 2026

Genesis Spiritual Life and Conference Center

Enter into the sacred rhythm of Holy Week through a transformative four-day silent-directed retreat. This retreat invites you to accompany Christ through the days leading to Easter in a spirit of deep listening, prayer, and renewal. Each day, participants meet privately with an experienced spiritual director who serves as a…

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Ecological Stations of the Cross: A Journey of Environmental Reflection

With Joseph Krans, OFS

March 31, 2026

Genesis Spiritual Life and Conference Center

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…

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By His Cross and Resurrection: A Triduum Retreat

With Fr. Michael Broderick and Joseph Krans, OFS

April 2 - 5, 2026

Genesis Spiritual Life and Conference Center

Imagine stepping away from the noise and chaos of everyday life into a profound spiritual sanctuary. You are invited to walk alongside Jesus during His most intimate and pivotal moments, to witness His passion, share in His suffering, and ultimately celebrate the hope of resurrection. Experience these holy days not…

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Silent Directed Retreat – 8 Day – Nurturing Your Spirit

With Lisa Hudkins

April 26 - May 3, 2026

Genesis Spiritual Life and Conference Center

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…

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Silent Directed Retreat – 8 Day – Nurturing Your Spirit

With Lucy Abbott Tucker

April 26 - May 3, 2026

Genesis Spiritual Life and Conference Center

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…

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Present to Presence: A Centering Prayer Retreat

With Anne Simpkinson

May 22 - 24, 2026

Genesis Spiritual Life and Conference Center

God is always in and with us—closer to us than our own breath—but we are not always with God. Our harried, over-scheduled, noisy lives and patterns laid down in childhood prevent us from simply being with God. Centering Prayer is a way to re-member disparate parts of ourselves, gather scattered…

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Thresholds of Hope: A Spiritual Practice Retreat

With Cami Twilling

May 29 - 31, 2026

Genesis Spiritual Life and Conference Center

Step across the threshold into a weekend of renewal, where prayer, movement, and the ancient wisdom of Celtic spirituality awaken hope and courage for uncertain times. Here, amidst sacred listening, discover the strength Earth and Spirit offer—inviting you to live and act with deeper compassion. Join us for an experiential…

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Silent Directed Retreat – 6 Day – Nurturing Your Spirit

With Nicki Verploegen, Ph.D.

June 16 - 22, 2026

Genesis Spiritual Life and Conference Center

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…

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Silent Directed Retreat – 6 Day – Nurturing Your Spirit

With Nancy Sheridan, SASV

June 16 - 22, 2026

Genesis Spiritual Life and Conference Center

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…

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BioSpiritual Focusing Silent Directed Retreat – 4 Day

With Mike Smoolca

June 17 - 22, 2026

Genesis Spiritual Life and Conference Center

Embark on a transformative journey of self-discovery and spiritual growth during our immersive BioSpiritual Focusing Silent-Directed Retreat, where you will have the opportunity to explore the guiding presence of the Spirit in a deeply enriching environment. This retreat is open to individuals with BioSpiritual Focusing training and background. During a…

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Stories of Forgiveness: Letting Go, Living Light

With Eileen Epperson

July 11, 2026

Genesis Spiritual Life and Conference Center

Each of us carries a story about forgiveness—times we’ve given it, withheld it, or longed to receive it. Sometimes, letting go of hurt feels impossible until we hear how someone else found their way through. Join us for a day of reflection, connection, and renewal in a warm, confidential setting…

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Silent Directed Retreat – 6 Day – Nurturing Your Spirit

With Nicki Verploegen, Ph.D.

July 28 - August 3, 2026

Genesis Spiritual Life and Conference Center

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…

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Silent Directed Retreat – 6 Day – Nurturing Your Spirit

With Nancy Sheridan, SASV

July 28 - August 3, 2026

Genesis Spiritual Life and Conference Center

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…

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Guided BioSpiritual Focusing Weeklong Retreat

With Donna O'Connor, Mike Smoolca and Dawn Turgeon

August 13 - 18, 2026

Genesis Spiritual Life and Conference Center

Unlock the hidden wisdom of your body and embark on a transformative journey of self-discovery with BioSpiritual Focusing. This silent guided retreat offers a unique opportunity to delve deep into your inner world, connecting with the sacred story woven into the very fabric of your being. Through a powerful blend…

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Escape to a Summer Sanctuary- A Weekend Silent Directed Retreat

With Mary C. MacGillivray, CSJA

August 21 - 23, 2026

Genesis Spiritual Life and Conference Center

As summer begins to slip by, are you longing for some rest, solitude and connection to the Holy? Allow yourself time for a sacred pause. Come to savor the prayerful surroundings, silence, and spiritual companionship for a weekend. Arrive on Friday afternoon at 3:00, enjoy dinner and conversation at 6:00,…

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Escape to a Summer Sanctuary- A Weekend Silent Directed Retreat

With Jo Ann Bourquard

August 21 - 23, 2026

Genesis Spiritual Life and Conference Center

As summer begins to slip by, are you longing for some rest, solitude and connection to the Holy? Allow yourself time for a sacred pause. Come to savor the prayerful surroundings, silence, and spiritual companionship for a weekend. Arrive on Friday afternoon at 3:00, enjoy dinner and conversation at 6:00,…

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Speaking with Grace: Turning Difficult Conversations into Connection

With Eileen Epperson

August 22, 2026

Genesis Spiritual Life and Conference Center

Have you ever replayed a painful interaction in your mind, wishing you’d found the right words? Do you tiptoe around certain people to avoid conflict—or silently swallow your true feelings? In this inspiring, day-long experience, you’ll discover new possibilities for communicating that you may never have thought possible. You’ll learn…

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Honoring Our Common Home: Reflecting on Laudato Si’ and Embracing Laudate Deum – Virtual Study Group

With Joseph Krans, OFS

September 10 - October 1, 2026

Genesis Spiritual Life and Conference Center

"The fate of our planet is not sealed—it’s a call to conscience, action, and hope." "Honoring Our Common Home: Reflecting on Laudato Si’ and Embracing Laudate Deum" invites participants on a transformative 5-week journey through Pope Francis’ compelling teachings on the ecological and spiritual crises shaping our world’s future. Beginning…

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The Jonah Silent Retreat

With Rev. Sharon Seyfarth Garner

September 17 - 20, 2026

Genesis Spiritual Life and Conference Center

Immerse yourself in the ancient practice of sacred silence with a creative, new twist.  Inspired by the story of Jonah, we will explore creative, prayerful and playful ways to nurture a life of faith that is both deeply contemplative and socially active. Every morning, we will gather in community for…

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Becoming a BioSpiritual Companion

With Mike Smoolca and Nancy Benben

September 22, 2026 - March 16, 2027

Genesis Spiritual Life and Conference Center

Brought to you by Genesis Spiritual Life Center & The Spiritual Life Center Experienced BioSpiritual Focusing practitioners and teachers, Mike Smoolca and Nancy Benben will lead a comprehensive 5-session program focused on developing BioSpiritual Focusing Companions. This is aimed at all those wishing to learn the dynamics of effective and…

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Sacred Story, Modern Myth: Praying with Pop Culture

With Eric Clayton

September 25 - 27, 2026

Genesis Spiritual Life and Conference Center

Discover a faith alive in every story—where God speaks not just in quiet prayers, but through the media that move us. This program invites participants to experience God’s presence not only in their personal journeys but also in the stories that animate our culture—movies, songs, books, and comics—echoing Ignatius’ invitation…

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Presence, Prayer, and Writing from the Heart: A Contemplative Writing Retreat

With Anne A. Simpkinson

October 2 - 4, 2026

Genesis Spiritual Life and Conference Center

We are never closer to our Creator than when we are creating. In writing, we engage in God’s infinite creative impulse to birth the new, the unexpected. Silence and stillness can assist that process by opening a portal to inner depths where we connect to ourselves, to others, to God,…

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BioSpiritual Focusing: Day of Presence

With Donna O'Connor and Dawn Turgeon

October 3, 2026

Genesis Spiritual Life and Conference Center

Imagine a space where science meets spirituality, where your body becomes a conduit for divine wisdom, and where every breath draws you closer to the essence of your being. Embark on a profound journey of self-discovery and spiritual awakening through the practice of BioSpiritual Focusing. “When you seek me, you…

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Blessing of the Animals

With Joseph Krans, OFS

October 3, 2026

Genesis Spiritual Life and Conference Center

Join hearts and paws on October 3rd at 10:00 AM at Genesis Spiritual Life Center for the Blessing of the Animals, a celebration of the cherished connection between humans and their animal companions, coinciding with the Feast Day of St. Francis of Assisi, the patron saint of animals, known for…

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Restoring Sacred Conversation with Earth

With Victoria Loorz

October 9 - 11, 2026

Genesis Spiritual Life and Conference Center

The wisdom and guidance we need for this time of tragic ecological and political collapse will not be found in the dominant ways of thinking. Over fifty years ago, Thomas Berry urged us to turn and face these challenges by pointing to the root cause of the problem, "We are talking only to…

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BioSpiritual Focusing Silent Directed Retreat – 4 Day

With Donna O'Connor

November 3 - 8, 2026

Genesis Spiritual Life and Conference Center

Embark on a transformative journey of self-discovery and spiritual growth during our immersive BioSpiritual Focusing Silent-Directed Retreat, where you will have the opportunity to explore the guiding presence of the Spirit in a deeply enriching environment. This retreat is open to individuals with BioSpiritual Focusing training and background. During a…

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Sacred Shift: How Faith is Evolving in the 21st Century – A Virtual Retreat

With Diarmuid O'Murchu, MSC

November 6 - 8, 2026

Genesis Spiritual Life and Conference Center

Is religion truly dying—or is it being reborn in new and unexpected ways? While popular culture often insists that faith is in decline, we are also witnessing a widespread search for new forms of spiritual connection—practices that honor our inner wellbeing, nurture community, and recognize the sacredness of the natural…

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Finding Wholeness in the Midst of Everything with Julian of Norwich

With Mark Burrows

November 20 - 22, 2026

Genesis Spiritual Life and Conference Center

We all long to be gladdened by what Julian of Norwich imagined as the inner music of love in our lives. She knew that the melodies that shape us—some in the major key, some in a jarring, discordant minor—are part of a larger symphony, if we learn to listen deeply…

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Come to the Table: A Day on the Holy Spirit

With Valenda Liptak and Michelle Suhocki

November 21, 2026

Genesis Spiritual Life and Conference Center

Discover how the Holy Spirit empowers your daily life: join us for a transformative day of insight, reflection, and practical application. This enriching event offers a deep dive into the role of the Holy Spirit in Christian life. Participants will explore how the Holy Spirit functions as our divine Helper,…

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A Simply Centered Advent: Mandalas, Candles and Prayer – Virtual Retreat

With Rev. Sharon Seyfarth Garner

November 30 - December 21, 2026

Genesis Spiritual Life and Conference Center

Begin your Advent journey this year with creative prayer, calming candlelight, and contemplative coloring. The beauty of Advent can easily become lost amidst the busy-ness of the season. If we are not careful and intentional, the sacred invitation to “wait with bated breath” quickly becomes the cultural compulsion to “shop…

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Access Your Inner Room with Centering Prayer

With Fr. Bill Sheehan, OMI

December 10 - 13, 2026

Genesis Spiritual Life and Conference Center

Discover the transformative power of centering prayer as you learn to access your sacred inner sanctuary. Join us to explore the practice of entering your "inner room," unlocking a deeper connection with the divine and finding profound peace within yourself. Accessing our inner room and exploring its transformative effects is…

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The Wonder of the Nativity – Live at Genesis

December 18, 2026

Genesis Spiritual Life and Conference Center

Step into a scene that stirs the soul and awakens the wonder of the season.  Journey back in time and witness the Christmas story come alive beneath winter’s starlit sky. Join us at Genesis on Friday, December 19, 2025, for an exciting Live Nativity experience  💫✨ Inspired by St. Francis…

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Mindful Transitions: A Contemplative Year End Retreat

With Joseph Krans, OFS

December 30, 2026 - January 1, 2027

Genesis Spiritual Life and Conference Center

As we prepare to welcome a new year, we invite you to participate in a transformative program that honors the journey of 2026 while igniting hope for what lies ahead. Take a moment to pause, reflect on the experiences that have shaped you over the past twelve months, and look…

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