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Men's Rites of Passage (MROP)


  • Osprey Wilds Environmental Learning Center 54165 Audubon Drive Sandstone, MN, 55072 United States (map)

The Men’s Rites of Passage is not just another Catholic/Christian men’s retreat, but five days of formal male initiation. These teachings on the “mysteries” and the accompanying rituals of Passover have been met with a very strong response in recent years.

Men’s Rites of Passage 2017

Unfortunately, the proven way to lead males on this journey has been lost to the West for a thousand years. Franciscan priest Fr. Richard Rohr has reclaimed the ancient patterns of rites of passage and designed a modern day retreat for welcoming men into the male spiritual community.  Fr. Richard’s work in this area addresses the reality that if men are not led through an inner journey of powerlessness, they will inevitably misunderstand and abuse power.

Over 4,700 men have now been initiated through these rites of male initiation over the past 15 years. Fr. Richard Rohr, OFM, (the creator of the MROP) and MALEs have trained teams of men to do the same. Illuman of MN is offering a Rites of Passage event this summer, June 21-25, 2023 in Sandstone, MN.

The Rites of Passage are best for those who have already done some men’s work and who are on a serious spiritual journey. It is best to make this experience as a lone seeker. Fathers and sons are normally not initiated together, nor is it a buddy experience. You may come with friends, but expect to be assigned to a home group where you will be anonymous and start from zero together.

Click on the link below to go to the Registration menu for details and a link to the application form. An application process is required, which is not a “first come, first served” process, but rather a discernment process about an applicant’s readiness.

Earlier Event: March 18
"See What You've Been Missing" Retreat
Later Event: November 4
Praying - with our hands and feet