What is the purpose of this retreat?
To further participants understanding of the Enneagram in general and as a spiritual tool, their Enneagram type, and how other Enneagram types show up in them through an interactive investigation of each type. To answer the questions, “who am I and where did you come from?” To build compassion for people of all Enneagram types by exploring how each type shows up in ourselves.
Why would I want to come to this retreat?
To advance my understanding of the Enneagram and see how my biases impact how I experience the world and my connection to others. To learn tools to more clearly recognize when I am not present to myself and others. To develop my spiritual gifts in service to myself and others. To connect in an interactive exploration of the Enneagram with others on a spiritual journey. The Retreat is an immersive investigation of the Enneagram that includes ritual, teaching, small groups, music, movements and mediations, time in nature, and video clips for each type.
The retreat will provide numerous opportunities for exploration- whether you are new to the Enneagram or have been using it as a tool in your spiritual practice for years since foundational information will be shared for each type to set the stage for deeper conversations. All that is required for participation is a willingness to be present in your body, have a curious mind and bring an open heart. We would recommend each participant taking an online test and reading the descriptions of each type before coming if they do not already know their type. A basic free version can be found at:
http://www.9types.com/rheti/index.php
Or you can pay $20 for a more robust online test at: https://www.enneagraminstitute.com/rheti/
Please note that finding your type is part of the exploration of the enneagram so do not feel concerned if you aren’t sure which is your dominant type based on the online tests.
Retreat Leader:
Brad Pickel has been studying the Enneagram for over 20 years and is a passionate communicator of its wisdom in both group settings and in one-on-one coaching sessions. Since initially being introduced to the Enneagram through Fr. Richard Rohr's teachings, he pursued training through the Enneagram Institute, led by Don Riso and Russ Hudson, two of the most respected teachers and prolific writers on the Enneagram. He has completed the Enneagram Institute training program and attended additional workshops focusing on the Essential Qualities and Higher Aspects of each type that highlights the spiritual components of the Enneagram. In addition, he has searched out teachings from other Enneagram teachers to further investigate what lies beneath the question of “what number are you?”
While finding value in the Enneagram as a personality typing system, Brad's interest is in the deeper knowledge offered through understanding the Levels of Development of each type, the interplay between instinctual drives and Enneagram type, the relationship dynamics between types, and the spiritual gifts and exercises of each type highlighted by this unique tool. Brad also previously served as the first Administrator for Illuman.
Retreat Details:
The cost of the retreat is $325. If money is an issue some financial assistance is available.
The Retreat begins at 5:00 pm, Friday, January 30, 2026 and ends at 1:00 pm, Sunday, February 1st, 2026. Its all good for you NFL fans…This is the weekend between the playoffs and the Superbowl!
The cost of the retreat includes five meals: dinner Friday night; breakfast, lunch, and dinner on Saturday; and brunch on Sunday.
The retreat center will accommodate two men to a room. Each room has its own private bathroom. If you want a single room the cost is $375. Please identify single room requests in comments.
You will need to bring a sleeping bag or sheets/blankets for a twin size mattress and a pillow. Also bring a towel, washcloth, and your usual toiletry items. Additional charges if you need towels and sheets.
All participants are required to complete the Illuman of MN Confidential Medical Form. Please click HERE to complete the form.
If you need to cancel your registration, please do so no later than Thursday, January 22nd. If you cancel after that date, the registration fee is nonrefundable. Cancel by emailing the convener.