MEN’S RITEs OF PASSAGE
WHAT IS THE MEN’S RITES OF PASSAGE?
The Men’s Rites of Passage (MROP) program is a four-night/five-day deeply prayerful and soulful experience that builds on the classic patterns of male initiation through moving rituals and teachings. Each day includes group prayer, major teachings on central themes in masculine spirituality, quiet time for reflection, and sharing in the context of a small group.
For most men, the question of what it means to be a man is perplexing. Many men have a longing for the support and guidance of other men in their journey towards masculinity, maturity, and a deeper experience with the Divine. In ancient cultures initiation rites and vision quests were used to help boys make the journey into adulthood.
Opening the door to this journey can start with the Men’s Rites of Passage (MROP). The MROP is not just a men’s retreat, but five days of formal male initiation. These teachings on the “mysteries” and the accompanying rituals have been met with a very positive response in recent years. Over 5,000 men have now been initiated through these rites of male initiation over the past 20 years.
This Journey begins with the age-old traditions that teach the five lessons every man needs to learn before he can fully engage in the adventure and mystery life will bring. MROP can awaken men to their own masculinity, their deep spirituality, their potential for leadership, and their life’s purpose. This is not about religion but about spirituality, about age old traditions that guide us into manhood (regardless of our chronological age), about coming to trust that there is something much greater at work in our lives than we could ever imagine.
“YOU KNOW AFTER ANY TRULY INITIATING EXPERIENCE THAT YOU ARE PART OF A MUCH BIGGER WHOLE. LIFE IS NOT ABOUT YOU HENCEFORWARD, BUT YOU ARE ABOUT LIFE.”
-Richard Rohr
what the mrop
is
A personal discovery about masculine spirituality and ‘the Holy Mystery.’
A time to savor the healing and awesome power of nature.
A process to address issues of loss, grief, and relationships with our father, other men, and others.
An opportunity to examine life’s priorities and ask courageous questions about your ‘next step.’
An invitation to listen to the ‘quiet voice of God.’
A chance to return to life with a renewed commitment to your gifts.
is not
A traditional lecture-based event.
An informational workshop about men’s spirituality.
A sensitivity training or deprivation experience.
A threatening process that requires participants to engage in anything strange or unsafe.
A test of physical stamina.
Men are asked to come with a willingness to participate from beginning to end and not as an observer. Trust that this process, which has served others so well, will also meet you wherever it is you are in life, and help you move into wherever it is you need to go. Most of the men who come, have little idea about what to expect, and have come based on a trusted friend’s recommendation that “you should really really do this.” Others come because they are seeking for a transformative experience, and either through Richard Rohr or other people, stumble upon this event. Whatever drew you…you are welcome.
Is The MROP Right For Me?
The Men’s Rites of Passage are most appropriate for those who are spiritually searching. Though friends and family do come together some times, it is preferable if you approach this experience as a lone seeker. Fathers and sons are normally not initiated together. You may come with friends but expect to be grouped separately to start together from zero with your group. (You will actually find this to be an advantage.)
Acceptance to the MROP is based on perceived readiness for a deep encounter. In the Men’s Rites of Passage, images and ritual are used from a variety of religious traditions. Though our primary orientation has developed from the Judeo-Christian heritage, the universal nature of what the MROP addresses continually demonstrates that if something is true, it is true, and will resonate in human hearts all over this globe.
We are fed by the wisdom traditions of forgiveness and radical inclusivity, and the MROP welcomes all men regardless of faith tradition, sexual orientation, race or ethnicity, socio-economic status or any other artificial divisions present in our society. Elements of the MROP require a basic mobility and level of health that will allow you to move around and walk on uneven terrain. There is a period of fasting for those who can. However, we have had people in their upper 70’s and those in wheelchairs go through this before successfully. We will work with you.
step 1 - take stock
Learn more about the MROP (on this page). The MROP is not just another event to attend. It is a decision that for many comes out of a sense that they are ready for “something” even if they are unsure what that is; see if in your “gut” God is inviting you into this adventure. You might also talk to others who have gone through the MROP. Contact us if you’d like to be connected with someone.
Next Steps
step 2 - Go Online and Read
If you are new to the MROP, please click the MROP Registration button below. This is your next step.
If you have already been initiated, you should next consider the Initiator or RIM options. Registration forms for the Initiator Program and the RIM (Returning Initiated Men) Program are found in the navigation bar under Initiation>Initiator and Initiation>RIM.
If you have further questions about which program is right for you, please email our Conveners.
IMPORTANT NOTES
• We require a $100 deposit be made with your application.
• Scholarships are available and are considered based upon an additional application.
• If you still have questions reach out to us.
Step 3 - Submit Application & Pay
If you are new to the MROP and have read through the frequently asked questions, you will be be presented a link at the bottom of the page that will guide you through the registration process for the Men’s Rites of Passage.
Thank you for taking the time to learn more about the MROP. We hope you’ll decide to join us!
step 4 - Wait and Pray
For hundreds of men, the MROP is a life-changing experience. Spend the time before an MROP being present to additional inspiration and insight. Be aware of where your life’s journey is calling your attention.
🔥 2024 ILLINOIS MEN'S RITES OF PASSAGE 🔥
Dates: Wednesday, August 7-Sunday, August 11, 2024
Location: Pilgrim Park Camp and Conference Center
Contact: Illuman of Illinois Conveners
Come join us for a meaningful week of men transforming men through deep soul work!
Northern California MROP
When: April 10-14
Where: Oak Run, California
Who: David Hecht
August 2024
Midwest MROP
When: August 7-11
Where: Princeton, Illinois
Who: Gary Meagher
April 2024
Southwest MROP
When: April 24-28
Where: Aravaipa, Arizona
Who: Alan Christenson
october 2024
May 2024
Pacific Northwest MROP
When: May 22-26
Where: Deroche, British Columbia
Who: Matthew Smedley
September 2024
Texas MROP & Umbrales
When: October 16-20
Where: Fischer, Texas
Who: Martin Lizarraga
(Concurrent Bi-lingual Rites)
East Coast MROP
When: September 18-22
Where: Shrine Mont, Virginia
Who: John Ball