This writing retreat is inspired by and celebrates the work of Wendell Berry. Permission to use excerpts from his work has been graciously granted by his publisher, Counterpoint Press. Please note that Mr. Berry has not endorsed or sponsored this event.

Rooted in the Land: A Men's Writing Retreat

Join us for a weekend of reflection, fraternity, and renewal as we write our way toward deeper belonging.

This year, our circle of brotherhood will draw inspiration from the poetry and agrarian wisdom of Wendell Berry. Together, we will explore themes of stillness, nature, and the sacredness of everyday life. We will reflect on our relationship with the land we live upon. The quest is to use writing as a vehicle to rediscover the divine presence in our own stories.

🗓️ Save the Date

Friday, January 15 – Sunday, January 17, 2027

Registration and pricing details will be announced soon.

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Is This Writing Retreat for Me?

You don't have to think of yourself as a poet or writer to greatly benefit from this retreat. The weekend is open to men of all writing experiences—from complete novice to published author. You can choose to write poetry, a series of journal entries, or some combination of both. The focus is on the spiritual journey.

The Experience

The retreat is broken up into six writing experiences. Each session will begin with poetic inspiration from Wendell Berry, leading into a writing prompt. We will gather as a large group, experience one-on-one time with another participant, and engage in our small group councils where sharing your work is optional but deeply encouraged.

Energizing the content of our program will be evening social times to hang out with other participants, optional morning prayer gatherings, an outdoor wandering or indoor rest, and an open mic to share the poetry and journal entries written during the retreat.

The Venue & Logistics

Location: Bergamo Center for Lifelong Learning (Dayton, OH)

• Comfortable, single room occupancy so you can relax as needed.
• Private bathroom for every participant.
• All meals are provided by the retreat center (dietary restrictions can be accommodated).
• Situated on 150 acres of land with forests, fields, and a pond perfect for quiet wandering.

Note: The Bergamo Center is near the Dayton airport. For those flying in, we will try to arrange volunteer transportation to and from the airport.

Your Retreat Guides

Brian Mueller and Tom Sparough will be our retreat content carriers.

Brian Mueller is a graphic designer, presence guide, and poet with ten self-published volumes of poetry.

Visit Brian's Website

Tom Sparough has published seven of his own eclectic books, one full-length play, and is a freelance content editor.

Visit Tom's Website

Block off your calendar, and stay tuned for registration details!