What is the Men's Rites of Passage?
The Men’s Rites of Passage (MROP) 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. Over 6,000 men have now been initiated through these rites of male initiation since they were begun in 1996.
Unfortunately, the proven way to lead males on a journey of initiation has been lost to the West for a thousand years. Only recently, Franciscan priest Fr. Richard Rohr has begun to reclaim the ancient patterns of rites of passage by designing 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.
Fr. Richard Rohr, OFM, the creator of the MROP and of MALEs (Men as Learners and Elders - now Illuman) has trained teams of men in many parts of the world to offer the Men's Rites of Passage.
The Men's Rites of Passage are best for those who have already done some men’s work and who are also on a serious spiritual journey. It is also recommended 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.
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, as well as 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.
WHAT THE MROP IS NOT...
A traditional lecture-based retreat.
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.
