Join Regional men who are already planning to venture to the North Woods of Minnesota (on the cusp of the Iron Range) June 23-27 at the Osprey Wilds Environmental Center in Sandstone, MN for a once-in-a-lifetime experience. In doing so, you will be personally, spiritually, and practically equipped to bring men together in your church.
The Men’s Rite of Passage (MROP) is for all men in their second-half of life (ages 30–65) and is a five-day/four night, deeply prayerful and soulful experience that builds on the classic patterns of male initiation through simple, moving rituals, and teaching.
Each day includes participating in group prayer, major teachings on central masculine spirituality themes, quiet time for reflection, and sharing in the context of a home group.
MROP IS...a personal discovery about masculine spirituality and ‘the Holy Mystery;' 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.
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.
Regional Minister Paul Koch experienced the Rites in Minnesota in 2015 and will share with you how his faith was radically transformed and set him on a wondrous spiritual journey that has influenced his call and friendships ever since. Especially after living through a year of physical separation from other men, your church and family will greatly benefit by your attendance. Regional Disciples Men's and Leadership Development monies will be available to greatly help offset the costs.
Paul has secured van pools for transportation to Minnesota. Seats are reserved on a first-notice basis. Please contact him directly if you are thinking about participating or want to ride together at paul.ccma@sbcglobal.net. Hiking/meditation and camping options at the St. Croix National Scenic Riverways in Taylor Falls, MN will take place along the way. We will leave a day earlier and return a day later.
Creating a safe container is a core focus for the MROP to ensure all brothers who participate feel safe physically and emotionally. A sports league professional has been retained to create a COVID-19 safe bubble with the utmost care and integrity.
With COVID-19, the team is taking the following precautions:
Negative test results are to be provided not more than 7 days before the start of the event and a level of exposure/quarantine commensurate with a medical procedure. Rapid tests at the beginning and end of the MROP are coordinated onsite by the MROP team. Proof of COVID-19 vaccination required to be submitted by June 9. The entire program will take place outside under a tent, including meals. Personal tenting for sleeping is an option.
To watch videos, see pictures, and learn more about its value, find out details click on this link. A registration button is at the bottom of the page.