Date: January 20/21, 2023 – (a 1-night retreat)
“What is the focus of this retreat?”
We have been through a lot these past couple years and have been challenged in a variety of ways. This retreat will give us an opportunity to finally meet in person, unpackage our experiences, look into our hearts and discover lessons that are waiting to be revealed.
We will explore multiple understandings for what it means to wear a mask and what it might mean to take our mask(s) off.
What to expect:
Come to be in the company of men, shoulder to shoulder, to make new friends, to listen to their stories, to share our stories and to participate in meaningful rituals.
Fr. Jim Clarke says, “The human soul cannot tell the difference between ritual and reality. Both are seen as metaphorical.”
We will meet to speak from our heart and to listen from our heart gifting each other in the experience.
“Spiritual maturity is to become aware that we are not the persona (mask) we have been presenting to others. That is why saints are humble and scoundrels are arrogant. We must become intentional about recognizing and embracing our shadows. Religion’s word for this is quite simply forgiveness, which is pivotal and central on the path of transformation.” -Richard Rohr
I wish
I could show you,
When you are lonely or in darkness,The astonishing light
Of your own being.
-Hafiz
“We know that the mask of the unconscious is not rigid-it reflects the face we turn towards it. Hostility lends it a threatening aspect; friendliness softens its features.” ~Carl Jung
“Love takes off masks that we fear we cannot live without and know we cannot live within.” -James Baldwin
The retreat leaders:
Tom Pawlak –
Co-Convener for Illuman of Indiana-Michigan, nature lover, husband, father, mentor, pet lover, creative tinkerer and good listener.
Michael Whitman –
Co-Convener for Illuman of Indiana-Michigan, the Editor of our Spring and Fall Newsletter. He is a ritual Elder and experienced retreat leader.
Phil Noonan–
An Elder on the Council for Illuman of Indiana-Michigan, our Chapter Treasurer, a student at the Living School with the Center for Action and Contemplation.
David VanFarowe –
An Elder on the Council for Illuman of Indiana-Michigan, an Individual and Family Councelor, a loving husband, father and avid fisherman.
