Helping men
dive deeper into life.
Through transformative inner work, we help men grow, connect, and make a difference in the world.
Illuman is
a spiritual movement of men helping men deepen in connection with ourselves, each other, and the needs of the world.
“Through Illuman, I have found brothers, teachings, and practices that lead me to be a generative father and grandfather—something the world so desperately hungers for. This is Good News for everyone.”
– Lloyd
“Illuman has given me a vibrant spiritual life and practice—something I needed at a time of loss. I believe this work can and will have a lasting impact on our society.”
– Don
Founded in 2012 by the Franciscan teacher and author Richard Rohr, Illuman is an inclusive interfaith community of men whose bonds run deeper than our differences. Rich and poor, young and old, progressive and conservative, queer and straight, from all manner of faiths or none at all: we are united in the shared path we walk, humbly pursuing a deeper life for the sake of the world.
You are welcome here
Discover Radical Belonging
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Transformative Inner Work
Illuman provides opportunities to do the ‘inner work’ of personal growth and spiritual transformation in the company of other men. We use rituals, story, contemplative practices, time in nature, and a small group framework known as the Way of Council to help men explore the things that matter most.
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Everything Belongs
At Illuman, your whole self—your joy and shame, your struggle and triumph—has a place. This is where you can speak without being judged. You don’t need to check any parts of yourself at the door. Your real and authentic self is welcome here, and that is beautiful and all too rare.
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Contemplative Spirituality
Through contemplative spiritual practices and unique ritual experiences, you’ll explore the deepest part of your inner self. Discover grounding hope, deep healing, and your own belovedness. You’ll leave more deeply connected to yourself, your faith tradition, and everything—and everyone—in between.
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Universal Brotherhood
Discover friendships with other men that are richer and deeper than you knew was possible, all centered around what matters most. Forged in the crucible of life, these lasting friendships offer life-changing support as we face everything life throws our way.
Gustavo’s story
“You get older, and you start asking deeper questions. A friend told me about Illuman, so I went to my local Council Circle. Later that year, I did my first Men’s Rites of Passage.
Every man has a different experience in their own journey. And that's part of the beauty, too. Illuman opens up the space for people to work out their own stuff, in a way that's not necessarily prescriptive, but that’s guided and contained.
We need to create space for men to explore their deeper questions and reflections about anything, particularly spirituality, in a way that feels safe and freeing, but still guided.
Since becoming part of the Illuman community, I have new eyes to look at things. I feel more open to others, to their perspective, and I feel significantly less judgmental. I feel free from that. My experience in being liberated to be myself has given me a clearer purpose.”
Your Journey begins here
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Men’s Rites of Passage is an immersive experience that helps awaken you to the adventure and mystery of your own life.
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Already done your initial rites? Return to the MROP and go even deeper through the Initiator Program.
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With Illuman men across North America and new online offerings, there’s a way to participate near you. Join us for upcoming Events.
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Can’t join a local Council Circle in person? You can still connect meaningfully with fellow men at one of our Virtual Councils or online Passion Circles.
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We love hearing from Illuman men—past, present, and future. Get in touch or sign up for our newsletter, Drumbeat, so you don’t miss a thing!
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Give back and help others experience the transformative inner work of Illuman. Visit this page to make a gift today.
Illuman Makes a Difference
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Over 10,000 changed lives
Over 10,000 men have participated in the Men’s Rites of Passage since we began this work. Every changed life transforms a corner of this world, making it a more beautiful and just place to be.
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3500 men pursuing a deeper life today
We are growing every year. Today, at least 3500 men are connected to Illuman worldwide. That’s 3500 men committed to inner work that makes a difference, diving deeper into life together.
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In 30 Places Worldwide
Worldwide, more and more men crave a deeper, more meaningful life that serves the life of the world. With 30 groups or chapters across six countries around the world, this movement knows no borders.
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30 Years of Rites
Together with Fr. Richard Rohr, we’ve been offering the Men’s Rites of Passage (MROP)—a key part of the Illuman journey—since 1996, when the very first rites were hosted in New Mexico.
Illuman is right for you if you:
Long to transform your life, but don’t know where to begin.
Yearn for a spiritual practice that makes a difference in the world.
Desire a more authentic masculinity rooted in humility and healing.
Crave real male friendship that’s grounded in life’s hope and struggle.
Want to awaken to your own belovedness, and live from that place.
