If you’ve ever wanted to return to an MROP, here is your chance with the Initiator Program.
Journey:
Together
Continuing to keep the edges hot.
INITIATOR PROGRAM for M.R.O.P.
If you’ve ever wanted to return to an MROP, here is your chance with the Initiator Program. This program, which Illinois M.A.L.E.s helped pilot back in 2014, is being done in conjunction with the Men’s Rite Of PAssage events. This program is not a repetition of an MROP experience, but is designed to give an initiated man the opportunity to deepen his understanding of initiation while walking with and holding the initiation experience of other men.
About The Initiator Program:
Initiated men continue to ask how they can participate in and support the initiation process. By design, the Men’s Rites of Passage (MROP) is run by a small team of 8-10 men. By piloting this new program, we hope to provide an opportunity for men to return to the Men’s Rites of Passage to both do some personal work and support the men who are being initiated.
The Initiator Program will run parallel to the actual MROP. This program has it’s own separate Weaver, who will lead the men in teachings and sharings, esp. on the Way of Council. It gives initiated men the opportunity to hold the container for the entire MROP process. Following the tradition of the elders taking the young men to be initiated and holding the container, we are asking you to join us for the five days as we “keep the edges hot” in our role of supporting the MROP process. This will deepen your experience of what happened at your own MROP as we are present in each gathering in the Sacred Space for the MROP rituals and teachings. You will also be led through a series of reflections, silence, and time in nature as we form the Sacred Circle of Prayer and Presence. Most of all, we will stand, shoulder to shoulder, giving our prayerful strength and support to the MROP team and the men being initiated. Come join us for a meaningful week of men transforming men through soul work! Those who join the Initiator Program are asked to be bring their own bedding, towels etc.
This program is for you if:
- You have been through the MROP and are an initiated man;
- You are keen to deepen your spiritual journey by revisiting the messages of your initiation;
- You want to be an active “initiator” – a man who invites other men to become initiated;
- You understand that you are not being initiated again;
- You understand that you are not a member of the MROP leadership team;
- You can be present and be part of the container for the entire MROP event.
Frequently Asked Question:
Q: If my son or a close friend wants to attend the MROP, should I be there?
A: Yes.
Program Details:
The pilot Initiator program is limited to 20 participants and places will be offered on a first come, first served basis. After that, priority will be given to men who commit to sponsoring/inviting other men to this MROP. The cost to participate in the five-day program is $300. There is a $100 deposit to reserve your place.
How do I sponsor someone?
- A man is considered a sponsor if an MROP applicant clearly indicates that you encouraged him to make the Men’s Rite of Passage on his application form. So encourage men you think are ready.
- Sponsor a man (one you don’t know) by contributing at least half their registration fee ($250, or more if you can) ) for a man to participate in the MROP – this money will be used for scholarships for MROP applicants of limited means.