Men’s Rites of Passage Texas 2026
"An important, life changing experience, it took me apart and put me back together, one of the best things I’ve ever done."
Step Beyond the Ordinary. Awaken to the Extraordinary.
Many men reach a stage where the old ways of living no longer feel enough. Work, family, or success may look fine on the outside, but inside there can be a sense that something’s missing.
The Men’s Rites of Passage is a five-day retreat designed to help you reflect, discover a deeper sense of who you are and what matters most, and step more fully into the man you want to be.
What this is:
Inspired by the work of Richard Rohr, The Rites of Passage is a journey of masculine spirituality. It offers a safe but challenging space where men support one another to grow, to face themselves honestly, and to step forward with fresh clarity and purpose. It is active, participatory, and designed to help you reconnect with what really matters in your life.
What this isn't:
This is not a boot camp, and there is no “pass or fail.” It is not religious, but it is spiritual and it welcomes men of all faiths or none. This isn't a passive retreat. You won’t be sitting back. You’ll be asked to engage fully in an experience that can open the door to real change.
The Rites are open to all men, whatever your age, background, sexuality, ethnicity, or belief. If you feel drawn to take a deeper look at your life, this is for you.
What you'll experience:
Across five days you’ll take part in:
Time outdoors in nature – including time alone for reflection.
Shared circles with other men – listening, speaking honestly, and being heard.
Simple practices with fire, drumming, and quiet that help you slow down and reconnect to something bigger.
Support from experienced guides – men who’ve been through this process themselves and will walk alongside you.
Why Take Part?
Because you're ready to:
Step away from the busyness and pressures of everyday life.
Look honestly at the challenges, wounds, or questions you carry.
Find strength and encouragement in the company of other men.
Step into the man you want to be.
Return to your life with fresh energy, insight, and commitment.
Men who have completed the Rites often speak of it as a turning point: a moment where they began living with more courage, authenticity, and connection:
"The rites peeled back all that had calloused inside me. The hurt, the rage, the disappointment, the black tar goo that weighed heavy on my heart. I've felt a deeper connection to my maleness, to nature, to the idea of being of service to others. I now feel able to share my life with my partner, I feel like a father and am acting accordingly. All of this is coming more easily, more instinctually now. I'm still in my job but I'm making plans, looking at my options, I'm excited by the prospects for once."
Event details:
Date: September 30 – October 4, 2026
Location: John Knox Ranch, Fischer, Texas
Cost: $450 is what it costs us to host the event, and is the minimum we're asking those to pay who can cover this cost. If you are unable to cover this, please request a scholarship by emailing illumanoftexas@gmail.com. If you are able, we invite you to overpay to help cover the cost of another man who needs to undertake this necessary journey.
We will contact you within 10 days of your registration to confirm it and send further instructions regarding travel, transportation, what to bring, and suggestions to prepare you to get the most out of your MROP.
If you have questions about the MROP or would like guidance in determining if this program is right for you at this time, please contact Brian Fairchild, brianlfairchild@icloud.com.