Our Mission
We are a center for experiential education, rooted in the Gospels, encouraging the transformation of human consciousness through contemplation, and equipping people to be instruments of peaceful change in the world.
MALEs FAQs
What is Men As Learners and Elders?
Since 1987, Fr. Richard Rohr has been holding conferences and conducting Men’s Rites of Passage for men in New Mexico. The MALEs program will build, network and support masculine spirituality in an on-going expansion of Richard’s work in other geographic locations, as well as in New Mexico. The goal is to form a network of initiated men and leaders around the world who have an ecumenical vision of Gospel based 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. For more information, go to the MALEs Mission Statement and Philosophy.
Why is MALEs necessary?
- “None of our current social or church issues is going to change until the ordinary male matures spiritually.” Fr. Richard Rohr
- Through his work, Fr. Richard Rohr has learned that many men, and young men in particular, strongly desire male mentors. From his extensive work with different cultures he has grown to 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).
Is the MALEs program open to all men?
The MALEs program is open to:
- Men of all races and religions.
- Men seeking wisdom for the journey.
- Grandfathers, fathers, sons, godsons and grandsons.
- Men without fathers.
- Young men at least 16 years old.
MALEs believes 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.
Is the MALEs program based on a Catholic tradition? Is it inclusive of other denominations or faiths?
The MALEs program is rooted in the Gospels but is deeply committed to ecumenical and inter-religious dialogue. Participants from all faiths and backgrounds are welcome.
How can I send money to support the MALEs program?
MALEs is a non-profit organization that qualifies for tax-deductible charitable gifts. One hundred percent of your gift will be used to support the MALEs program. For details on donations, visit Support the CAC.
I am an initiated male and want to help other men. How can I help?
You can contribute to a scholarship for men who can’t afford to attend a MALEs program. For details, visit Support the CAC.
Do you have any MALEs programs scheduled?
The latest information is available at Upcoming Events.
You can also visit our Regions pages to find out what’s scheduled in your area.
How can I obtain CDs, DVDs, MP3s or books on masculine spirituality?
For a complete listing of all of our resources on male spirituality, visit our online Mustard Seed Resource Center.
How can I network with other men interested in MALEs?
The Regions section provides links to other men who have an interest in or have attended a MALEs program.
