8419 Bailey Road
Darien
IL 60561
Everything is Holy Now: Alive to the Contemplative Path
“The key to life is finding the kernel of pure truth that’s hidden in the middle of every situation”. – Thomas Merton
Illuman of Illinois
Annual January Men’s Retreat Weekend
Led by Illuman Wisdom Elder, Joel Blunk
January 27-29, 2023
Carmelite Spiritual Center – Darien, IL
Come spend a contemplative weekend with Illuman of Illinois and the Men of St. Thomas Parish on the Journey of Illumination. We will slow down, shoulder to shoulder with brothers, and deepen our awareness of God’s gracious presence. We will reflect on our lives and how to hold and live the light given us, how to seek that kernel of pure truth hidden in each moment of our lives, drawing on Thomas Merton, James Finley, Howard Thurman, Thich Nhat Hanh, and Cynthia Bourgeault and other wisdom teachers, as well as our own lives. You’ll come away with a new appreciation for a more contemplative awareness and for the gifts that the present moment offers not only to yourself but for the healing of the world.
Come ready to:
• Enjoy the company of other men;
• Spend quality time in silence and reflection;
• Receive affirmation of God’s presence in your life;
• Way of Council; Authentic and deep listening and sharing;
• Experience inner work that makes a difference in the world;
• Reflect on your own mythic journey;
• Laugh, sing, worship, celebrate and drum
Joel Blunk returns to help us reemerge from this liminal time more awake, alert, and alive. Joel is an ordained minister, a musician, spiritual director, and men’s rites of passage guide. He’s a weaver and wisdom elder who enlightens us with the God-given light we have been given, especially in holding and living as a light to the world as beloved sons of heaven.
After many years at Penn State Campus Ministry, Joel and his family have lived in intentional communities in Richmond VA. and now lives at Rolling Ridge, WV doing nature-based soul work. He’ll share from his life experiences to help us consider a more contemplative way of life.
WHEN: January 27 – 29, 2023
WHERE: Carmelite Spiritual Center (8419 Bailey Road, Darien, IL 60561)
COST: $220 for double occupancy; $285 for single room (as available); $150 commuter rate
TO REGISTER: Call CSC 630-969-4141 or email: retreats@carmelitespiritualcenter.org. Pre-registration required by Jan 20th.
Questions?: contact Bob Colaresi, robco@robco.org, Gary Meagher, gdmeagher@gmail.com, or Chester Trocha, ctrocha@icloud.com
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