MEN’S RITES OF PASSAGE (MROP)
The Cosmic Importance of Male Initiation
What is the Rites of Passage?
Men's Rites of Passage Flyer ⬇
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. Over 5,000 men have now been initiated through these rites of male initiation over the past 20 years.
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. Fr. Richard Rohr, OFM, (the creator of the MROP) and MALEs have trained teams of men in many parts of the world to do the same.
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.
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.
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.
Why This Work is So Important
What Men Are Saying About the Men’s Rites of Passage
Below is a listing of Men’s Rites of Passage opportunities for 2024.
Northern California MROP
April 10-14
Oak Run, California
Contact: David Hecht
Southwest MROP
April 24-28
Aravaipa, Arizona
Contact: Alan Christenson
Pacific Northwest MROP
May 22-26
Deroche, British Columbia
Contact: Matthew Smedley
Midwest MROP
August 7-11
Princeton, Illinois
Contact: Gary Meagher
Texas MROP & Umbrales
October 16-20
(Concurrent Bi-lingual Rites – English & Spanish)
Fischer, Texas
Contact: Martin Lizarraga
East Coast MROP
September 18-22
Shrine Mont, Virginia
Contact: John Ball
All events are subject to change or cancellation.