The Ohio Chapter of Illuman
We’re a community of men transforming other men through a power greater than ourselves. We support men in their lifelong journeys to heal wounds and trauma, deepen spirituality, and grow as elders shaping future generations.
About | News & Events | Get Involved | Support | Contact
Why Join Ohio Illuman?
We emphasize local council experiences where men can connect and do their inner work alongside like-minded brothers close to home. Rooted in spiritual depth and radical inclusivity, our gatherings are open to all men—no prerequisites required, only a sincere desire to grow and deepen your spiritual journey.
Ohio is a vibrant Illuman region, home to many initiated men who walk with one another through life’s toughest challenges and transitions. Through nature, ritual, teaching, and authentic communication, we create spaces where men can explore what matters most and support each other along the way.
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We gather in local councils for deep connection, honest sharing, and spiritual growth.
These gatherings provide a sacred space for men to listen, speak from the heart, and support one another. We are guided by Illuman’s Way of Council.
Current council locations include North Olmsted (Cleveland), Southwestern Ohio (Dayton/Cincinnati), and Columbus. All are open to any man on a spiritual journey.
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Each June, we host a Wandering—an outdoor gathering where men come together in a state park, spend some solo time in nature, and then return to council to reflect and share their experiences. It’s a powerful opportunity to encounter the sacred in our natural world and to connect deeply with one another over a shared picnic lunch.
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Ohio Illuman has become well-known for our annual January writing retreat, a weekend where men gather from near and far to draw inspiration from our poet muse and awaken their own inner poet. It’s a time to relax, connect, and experience the transformative power of poetry in community.
We also host special events throughout the year, such as our fall Fireside Council. Come join us for an evening of good food, meaningful conversation, and sacred storytelling around the fire!
🗓️ Ohio Illuman Calendar
Ohio Illuman holds and sponsors a variety of events throughout the year. These include monthly councils, wanderings in nature, retreats, and special events. Please check our page often for the latest schedule of activities and events.
Monthly Councils
Council Information & Leaders
Columbus North (takes place the first and third Wednesday of every month - please contact Mike or Sam to be included on email reminders) - Mike Bella / Sam Moore
Columbus (takes place the second Tuesday of every month - please contact Rich to be included on email reminders) - Rich Horton
Southwest Ohio (typically takes place the third Sunday of every month - please contact Tom to be included on email reminders) - Dan Vanoli / Tom Sparough / Brian Mueller
Ohio Illuman Events
🗞️ Ohio Illuman News
Welcome to our blog, a space for stories, updates, and reflections from the Ohio Illuman community. Here you’ll find insights from our gatherings, words of inspiration, and news about upcoming events. We hope these offerings nourish your journey and help you feel more connected to the work we share.
Get Involved
Join Us on the Journey
If you’re seeking deeper connection, a sense of purpose, or simply a space to be real with other men, we invite you to join us. Ohio Illuman is a community of men committed to inner work, spiritual growth, and authentic brotherhood. Through regular councils, retreats, and outdoor gatherings, we create spaces where men can show up as they are—no masks, no pretending. Here, you’ll find a circle of support for life’s challenges, transitions, and transformations. Whether you’re new to this kind of work or returning to it, there’s a place for you among us. Come and experience the power of connection, ritual, and shared journeying.
Our Leadership Team
Ohio Illuman is a community shaped and sustained by the men who show up with open hearts and a willingness to serve. Our leadership team offers guidance, support, and care for our region’s efforts—grounded in humility, spiritual practice, and the wisdom of shared experience. In addition to our core leadership, our Council Carriers hold sacred space for men to gather in authenticity and deep listening. Together, we strive to nurture a community where all men can grow, connect, and be transformed.
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• Rich Horton - Secretary
• Brian Mueller - Treasurer
• Charles Myking - Governance
• Vacant - President -
CINCINNATI/DAYTON
COLUMBUS
Scenes from Ohio
Support & Contribute
You Can Make A Difference
There are a number of ways you can support our work. Please consider making a recurring donation.
The work of Ohio Illuman is made possible through the generosity of friends and supporters like you. Every gift, whether financial, in prayer, or through acts of service, is deeply appreciated and helps us continue our mission of supporting men on their spiritual journey.
Your contributions allow us to cover essential costs such as retreat subsidies, insurance, travel assistance, and the technology that keeps our community connected. All financial gifts are tax-deductible in the United States to the extent allowed by law.
Thank you for walking with us and helping to sustain this vital work.
Contact Us
Contact Information
If you would like to talk to us about being a part of Ohio Illuman or simply have a question, please get in touch by sending us a message. Whether you’re looking to discuss an upcoming event or simply want to say hello, we’d love to hear from you!
The Men of The Ohio Chapter of Illuman
Contact: connect@ohioilluman.org
