Catholic Life Ministries

I recently made an amazing wilderness retreat for men developed by Fr. Richard Rohr, Franciscan priest and director of the Center for Action and Contemplation.  The retreat is called Men’s Right of Passage (MROP).  It was truly one of the most unique and wonderful events in which I have participated.  I have been sending the following letter to male friends and family members to invite them to consider attending. (photo:  Copyright: www.123rf.com/profile_kamchatka)

Dear Friends,

I’m writing to tell you about a five-day wilderness retreat I attended in the North Cascades called “Men’s Right of Passage (MROP).” The retreat was developed by Franciscan Father Richard Rohr.  It is faith- oriented in that its reference point is from the monotheistic faith of Abraham whose God created all that is seen and unseen and who loves every human being as a beloved son or daughter. I have participated in outstanding events that have enriched my life and deepened my capacity to love God and neighbor.  MROP is unlike anything I have ever done before.  I won’t tell you much about it because I want you to attend it and don’t want to spoil any surprises.  You can read about the retreat at this link: https://illuman.org/mrop/

I will say this: MROP is held at different wilderness spots around the country.  I attended one, 5 days, in the  North Cascade Mountains backcountry, a place as beautiful and wild as any I’ve seen.  The retreat’s purpose is to help men become healthy men, even with all the hurts and pains that life brings, and all the unhealthy behaviors that the culture’s toxic masculinity imposes. It had a perfect mixture of  presentations, dramas, conversation in small groups, rituals, great food, campfires, rowdy singing, and lovely moments of quiet in nature.

When I left the retreat on Sunday afternoon, I felt giddy with joy.  I could hardly stop laughing and singing.  I have not felt this alive, free, and content in a long, long time.  This journey towards being a healthy man has been the trajectory that I have been on my entire adult life.  MROP expanded that journey exponentially. You will find a schedule of upcoming MROP events at the above link.  I urge you to find a date that works for you and set aside the time to attend.

Don’t walk to the next MROP; RUN TO IT!

If you have any questions or want to talk more about the retreat, let me know.  I’m planting a seed, inviting you to consider participating in this life-transforming event.  No matter how old you are, no matter your religious tradition or lack thereof, no matter your political persuasion – left, right, or in the middle – MROP can be the most healing, exhilarating, and meaningful event for men in which you will ever participate.  Blessings!  Robert