Spirit of Man
Embracing the Light, Facing the Shadow, Becoming Better, More Authentic Men
April 26-28, 2019
Our culture is in a rapid period of growth and change. The way we define ourselves, as men needs to change too. We often define ourselves in relation to what we achieve; our labors, jobs, careers, professions and successes become who we are. The focus is on human doing, instead of being human. While this affords a sense of purpose, it conflicts with who we are in deeper places, especially when we lose a sense of how others are affected by our actions.
When our external motivations no longer serve us, where do we find meaning? This weekend will help us uncover the energy that has always been within us, and when accessed can become a clearer expression of our true selves.
By exploring the Lover archetype in the context of the four traditional male archetypes, the retreat will support men seeking to deepen their spiritual lives. Our hope is to affirm that our sexuality is beautifully woven into our being and hence our spirituality. We hold it to be self-evident that all people everywhere are created in the image of God. The weekend will provide a safe environment where men can speak without being judged or shamed. By diving deep into the affirming light of who we are as well as facing the pain of our shadow in the company of other men, we stand steadfast and confident that we will become better men!
This gathering will be enriched through teachings, rituals, individual time for reflection, small group gatherings, the Way of Council, and through hearing stories and reflections of a small panel of women on Saturday evening who will share their experiences, words of wisdom, affirmations, and hopes for us as men.
“Never give a sword to a man who can’t dance.” - Celtic saying
“In our view, patriarchy is not the expression of deep and rooted masculinity, for truly deep and rooted masculinity is not abusive.
Patriarchy is the expression of the immature masculine. It is the expression of Boy psychology, and, in part,
the shadow—or crazy—side of masculinity. It expresses the stunted masculine, fixated at immature levels.”
(Robert L. Moore, King, Warrior, Magician, Lover: Rediscovering the Archetypes of the Mature Masculine)
Retreat Leaders:
David Wenger – An Elder on the Council of Indiana-Michigan
M.A.L.Es, a Spiritual Director, a Massage Therapist, Facility
Coordinator of the Hermitage a contemplative retreat center
in Three Rivers, MI, and a good listener.
Donn Redford – An Elder on the Council of Indiana-Michigan
M.A.L.Es, a semi-retired Nurse, an active cancer survivor,and
a wild spirit
Jamey Bontrager-Singer – Convener of Indiana-Michigan
M.A.L.Es, a trying auto mechanic, a spirituality enthusiast,
an engineer, and a maker of peace with depression.
Lawrence Lodge at The Holley InstituteMore details about the venue can be seen here: https://www.desales.org/lodgefloorplan.html
In an effort to make our retreats accessible to everyone we consider partial scholarships when requested.
Please feel free to call our chapter convener,
Jamey Bontrager-Singer at 574-312-4776.
