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

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Men As Learners and Elders?

Since 1987, Fr. Richard Rohr has been holding conferences and conducting Men’s Rites of Passage for men in New Mexico.  The M.A.L.Es program will build, network and support masculine spirituality in an on-going expansion of Richard’s work in other geographic locations, as well as in New Mexico.  The goal is to form a network of initiated men and leaders around the world who have an ecumenical vision of Gospel based male initiation.  These men will provide mentoring for men of the next generation as they exercise their gifts and talents while being trained as Elders.  For more information, go to the M.A.L.Es Mission Statement and Philosophy.

Why is M.A.L.Es necessary?

·        “None of our current social or church issues is going to change until the ordinary male matures spiritually.”  Fr. Richard Rohr

·         Through his work, Fr. Richard Rohr has learned that many men, and young men in particular, strongly desire  male mentors.  From his extensive work with different cultures he has grown to recognize that the “father wound” is “perhaps the most  universal wound for men on this earth”.

·        There is a need for on-going formation opportunities concerning men’s spirituality.

·        There is also a need for a networking system so men can support and receive support from one another (especially, for men ministering in different settings).

Is the M.A.L.Es program open to all men?

The M.A.L.Es program is open to:

·         Men of all races and religions.

·         Men seeking wisdom for the journey.

·         Grandfathers, fathers, sons, godsons and grandsons.

·         Men without fathers.

·         Young men at least 16 years old.

Is the M.A.L.Es program based on a Catholic tradition? Is it inclusive of other denominations or faiths?

The M.A.L.Es program is rooted in its Catholic identity but is deeply committed to ecumenical and inter-religious dialogue. Participants from all faiths and backgrounds are welcome.

How can I send money to support the M.A.L.Es program?

M.A.L.Es is a non-profit organization that qualifies as a tax-deductible charitable gift.  One hundred percent of your gift will be used to support the M.A.L.Es program.  For details on donations, including using a credit card, go to Support M.A.L.Es. 

I am an initiated male and want to help other men.  How can I help?

You can contribute to a scholarship for men who can’t afford to attend a M.A.L.Es program.  For details, go to the Help Us section of this website.

Do you have any M.A.L.Es programs scheduled?

The latest information is available at Programs.

How can I obtain audiotapes, videotapes or books on masculine spirituality?

Go to the Resources section on this website for more information on masculine spirituality.

How can I network with other men interested in M.A.L.Es?

The Networking section will provide links to other men who have an interest in or have attended a M.A.L.Es program.

What is the latest news on M.A.L.Es?

Click on Current News for updated information on the M.A.L.Es program.

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Last modified: April 13, 2008