Question #1: Can men with disabilities be accommodated?

Although Pilgrim Park is not subject to the Americans With Disabilities Act (ADA) we will make every effort to accommodate any man who wishes to experience the MROP. However, you must have basic mobility and sufficient health allowing you to move around, hike, and fast. For questions or concerns email our registration coordinator Chester. Additional information can be found on the Pilgrim Park website.

Question #2: Are there age restrictions?

Yes. The minimum age for participating in the MROP is 21. There is no maximum age given you meet the health requirements stated above.

Question #3: Can I attend with friends or relatives?

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 siblings or friends, but expect to be assigned to a group with men you are meeting for the first time. We believe you will actually find this arrangement to be an advantage.

Question #4: I don’t have a religious affiliation. Can I attend?

We are open to all faith traditions. Nonetheless, please note the MROP is designed to support men wishing to travel further on their spiritual journeys or provide a foundation to discover their own spiritual pathways. It should be noted that this program was created by a Franciscan priest (Fr. Richard Rohr) and there are some symbols employed from his Judeo-Christian tradition.

Question #5: What time does the program start on august 7?

You must arrive at Pilgrim Park no earlier than 1pm and no later than 3pm Wednesday, August 7, 2024. Registration begins at 2pm so that you can register, unpack, and be ready to begin promptly at 4pm. The MROP is highly experiential – each experience creates a foundation for the next. Therefore, it is extremely important that you arrive on time and stay for the entirety of the program. This arrangement provides you with every opportunity to reap the benefits of the full MROP experience including self-reflection, as well as continued personal development. For this reason, late arrivals will not be accommodated. Nonetheless, should unforeseen travel issues create a delay, we will do our best within some limitations to work you into the program.

Question #6: What time does the program end on august 11?

We plan to end by 3pm on Sunday, August 11, 2024. By submitting an application to attend the MROP, you are agreeing to participate in the entire program.

Question #7: Does Illuman provide transportation to and from the airport?

Round trip transportation from Chicago to Pilgrim Park Camp is not included in the cost of the retreat. We will assist in creating carpools from Midway/O’Hare International Airport at noon on Wednesday, August 7, and returning to the airport by 6pm on Sunday, August 11. Transportation details will be included in the full confirmation email you receive after being accepted in the program.

Question #8: What is the cost to attend the MROP?

Total cost to attend the MROP is $625 (including meals, lodging, resources and materials). We require a $100 deposit with the application and the balance will be due by July 24, 2024.

Question #9: Are there scholarships available?

Yes, If you are in need of financial assistance, please contact Chester. All information will remain confidential at all times.

Question #10: What is the cancellation policy?

Any cancellations will be issued minus the $100 application deposit.

Question #11: I’m gay. Will I be welcome?

All men are welcome in this sacred and safe space to speak their truth and discern their paths. We will each bring our own insights, anxieties and fears into this kind of intimate, shared experience – again, all are welcome. In the end, participants will likely find that they are more alike in their longings, hungers, and deepest aspirations than they are different.

Question #12: I participated in the Illuman MROP several years ago. Can I go through it again?

The Illuman Men’s Rites of Passage is a once in a lifetime experience, and therefore you may not make this initiation rite more than once. For men who have completed an Illuman MROP, we invite you to register for the Initiator Program or the Returning Initiated Men (RIM) Program.

Question #13: What is the deadline to apply?

To ensure your place in the Men’s Rites of Passage, please apply no later than July 20, 2024.

Question #14: How and when will I know if I’ve been accepted into the MROP?

Our registration team will be reviewing your application and will contact you within 10 days to notify you of your status (accepted, waiting list, or determined to be ineligible).

Question #15: What do I need to bring?

Illuman of Illinois will provide a thorough “Things to Bring” checklist in the acceptance email.

Question #16: Where is the Pilgrim Park Camp?

Pilgrim Park is located in north-central Illinois, approximately two hours west southwest of Chicago, one hour east of Moline, and one hour north of Peoria. The Camp is just south of Interstate 80, and can be reached from either Highway #6 or Highway #29 (main entrance). Pilgrim Park’s address is 26449 1340 N. Avenue, Princeton, IL 61356. The phone number at Pilgrim Park Camp is 815-447-2390 during business hours (M-F 8-5).

Question #17: What is the weather like there?

Pilgrim Park Camp is located in the Tallgrass Prairie of North Central Illinois. The weather in August (“dog days” of summer) consists of warm nights and hot, humid days. The temperatures average between 75-95 degrees during the day and 55-65 at night. Rain showers (thunderstorms) can happen and humidity typically runs high, but sleeping cabins have window air conditioners to help with sleeping. There likely will be mosquitoes, so be sure to bring bug repellent (and sunscreen).

Question #18: What are the accommodations like at Pilgrim Park Camp?

Sleeping accommodations at Pilgrim Park Camp are air-conditioned cabins. You will share a cabin with other men. Linens (bedding and towel) are NOT provided. So please bring along a towel, sheets, sleeping bag (or equivalent) and a pillow. The cabin area has a separate building with showers and bathrooms facilities. If you are a person who snores (and might disturb others), please note this on the medical form.

Question #19: Are ACCOMMODATIONS available before and/or after the Rites?

No, accommodations are not available at Pilgrim Park for those desiring to arrive early or stay longer. There are hotels in Princeton, Illinois, 15 minutes away from Pilgrim Park and many hotels close to O’Hare and Midway.

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