Men As Learners and Elders (M.A.L.Es)
a  program offered by the Center for Action and Contemplation

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After observing previous participants, we have decided that acceptance will be based on perceived readiness for initiation.  While images and ritual are used from other religious traditions, we do not apologize for our Judeo-Christian heritage.  However, this is not just another Catholic/Christian men’s retreat. 

 The Rites of Passage are most appropriate for those who are spiritually searching, who have done some kind of men’s work already, and who are not in a major reaction against God, grace or transformation.

It is important to note that you must have a basic mobility and health that will allow you to crawl, hike, and fast from food. 

It is best if you approach this experience as a lone seeker. Fathers and sons are normally not initiated together, nor is this a buddy experience. You may come with friends but expect to be assigned to a group where you will be anonymous and start from zero together with your group.  (You will actually find this to be an advantage.) 

You may not make this initiation rite more than once.

Please answer these questions honestly and not in a perfunctory manner.

Some men are refused and many will likely be on a waiting list as we are limiting enrollment.  You will receive notification of your application status (accepted, waiting list, or refused) within three weeks from our receipt of your application.

Mail with a $50.00 application fee to     Center for Action and Contemplation
                                                                        P.O. Box 12464
Make check payable to CAC                   Albuquerque, NM   87195-2464
                                                                        Attn:  MROP – California Site

 Note:  If accepted, your fee becomes non-refundable and is applied toward total cost of $450.00.  If refused, your check will be destroyed and/or your money refunded.

NAME_______________________________________________________________________

ADDRESS___________________________________________________________________

CITY____________________  STATE_______   ZIP_________   COUNTRY______________

EMAIL_____________________________     HM PHONE(           )_______________________

WK PHONE(           )___________________   CELL PHONE(           )_____________________

 BEST TIME TO CALL _________________    DATE OF BIRTH________________ 

 RELIGIOUS AFFILIATION_____________________________________

____________________________________ APPLICANT’S NAME  (please print)

 1.  What is happening in your life that tells you of your readiness for this event?

2.  Why do you want to participate in these Rites of Passage?

3.  What do you want to be initiated into?

4.  What has been your involvement in men's work/masculine spirituality?
     (Retreats?  Participation in a Men's Group?  Conferences?  Books? Tapes?, etc.)

 5.  Has anyone (or anything) been encouraging you to participate in this program?

  6.  Life tends to initiate you anyway if you are listening and awake to its questions and challenges in your intermediate years.  The Rites are appropriate for older men who desire to be of service and   “generate” life for other men - being an elder to the next generation.  If you are over 55, please share some thoughts about: A) Why do you think you need this initiation beyond your personal enrichment?   B) How does being initiated fit into your plans to “give back” or be of service to others? 

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Last modified: April 13, 2008