Question 1

WHAT IS MEN'S RITES OF PASSAGE?

Accepted Answer

Since 1987, Fr. Richard Rohr and the Center for Action and Contemplation (https://cac.org/) has been holding conferences and conducting Men’s Rites of Passage for  men in New Mexico. The Soul Pathways program will build, network and  support masculine spirituality in an on-going expression of Richard’s  work here in Texas. The goal is to participate in a network of initiated  men and leaders around the world who have an ecumenical vision of  Gospel based on male initiation. These men will provide mentoring for  men of the next generation as they exercise their gifts and talents  while being trained as Elders. Illuman of Texas is an authorized Chapter  of Illuman,(https://www.illuman.org/) the organization that has been chosen by Richard Rohr to continue the vision that he started.

Question 2

WHY IS MEN'S RITES OF PASSAGE NECESSARY?

Accepted Answer

• Our current social and religious issues are not going to change until the ordinary male matures spiritually.
 • Through  our work, we have learned that many men, and young men in particular,  strongly desire  male mentors.  We recognize that the “father wound” is  perhaps the most  universal wound for men on this earth.
 • There is a need for on-going formation opportunities concerning men’s spirituality.
 • There  is also a need for a networking system so men can support and receive  support from one another (especially, for men ministering in different  settings).

Question 3

IS THE MEN'S RITES OF PASSAGE PROGRAM OPEN TO ALL MEN?

Accepted Answer

The Men's Rites of Passage program is open to:

• Men of all races and religions.
 • Men of all sexual orientations and gender identity.
 • Men seeking wisdom for the journey.
 • Grandfathers, fathers, sons, godsons and grandsons.
 • Men without fathers.
 • Young men at least 18 years old.
 • We  believe that there is a universal message of love and faith that  transcends the boundaries of race, nation, culture, gender,  economics/class, politics, sexual orientation and religious differences.

Question 4

IS THE MEN'S RITES OF PASSAGE PROGRAM BASED ON THE CHRISTIAN TRADITION?  IS IT INCLUSIVE OF OTHER DENOMINATIONS OR FAITHS?

Accepted Answer

Illuman offerings are rooted in the Judeo-Christian Tradition, but we are deeply committed to ecumenical and inter-religious dialogue.  Participants from all faiths, backgrounds as well as those who do not identify with any organized faith group are welcome.

Question 5

HOW CAN I SEND MONEY TO SUPPORT ILLUMAN OF TEXAS?

Accepted Answer

Click on DONATE (https://illumanoftexas.org/donate/)in the navigation for details on how to make contributions online or via mail.

Question 6

I AM AN INITIATED MALE AND WANT TO HELP OTHER MEN.  HOW CAN I HELP?

Accepted Answer

There are several ways:  You can participate in the Initiator Program (under "Events"). 
You can serve on the team conducting the MROP; simply email illumanoftexas@gmail.com.(illumanoftexas@gmail.com)   You can also contribute to a scholarship for men who can’t afford to attend an MROP program or scholarship a  particular individual.  Click on the “About Us” tab above and scroll  down to “Donate.”

Question 7

DO YOU HAVE ANY MEN'S RITES OF PASSAGE PROGRAMS SCHEDULED?

Accepted Answer

Visit "Events" on the Home Page. You can also visit our Regions pages under the “Contact Us” Tab to find out what’s scheduled in  your area.

Question 8

HOW CAN I NETWORK WITH OTHER MEN INTERESTED IN MEN'S RITES OF PASSAGE?

Accepted Answer

Contact us for more information.

Question 9

CAN MEN WITH DISABILITIES BE ACCOMMODATED?

Accepted Answer

Illuman of Texas will make every effort within our power to accommodate any man who wishes to experience the MROP / Umbrales. However, you must have basic mobility and sufficient health allowing you to move around, hike, and fast. For questions or concerns, please email us at illumanoftexas@gmail.com. (illumanoftexas@gmail.com)

Question 10

CAN I ATTEND WITH FRIENDS OR RELATIVES?

Accepted Answer

It is best if you approach this experience as a lone seeker. Fathers and sons are normally not initiated together, nor is this a buddy experience. You may come with siblings or friends but expect to be assigned to a group where you will be anonymous and start from zero together with your group. You will actually find this to be an advantage.

Question 11

I PARTICIPATED IN THE ILLUMAN MROP SEVERAL YEARS AGO.  CAN I GO THROUGH IT AGAIN?

Accepted Answer

The MROP / Umbrales is a once in a lifetime experience, therefore, you may not make this initiation rite more than once. Men who have completed an Illuman MROP / Umbrales are invited to register for the INITIATOR or the RETURNING INITIATED MEN (RIM) programs.

Question 12

I PREFER TO REGISTER BY MAIL AND WITH A CHECK.  CAN I DO THAT?

Accepted Answer

Yes, you can register by mail. Simply email our treasurer at illumanoftexas@gmail.com, (illumanoftexas@gmail.com,)and he will assist you.

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