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New Pathways
In our work, boys have shown us how deeply important their father's
are to them. When examining their wounds and longings, often there
is a father at the base of them. Because the father/son relationship
is so important, we have organized a weekend retreat specifi cally
in support of men and their sons.
Fathers and Young Sons
Fathers and their young sons will spend most of their time having
fun, learning about nature and being with their fathers in playful,
engaging activities. Boys will experience the power of simple
rituals. They will witness mature men in a council circle, speaking
truth, listening with heart, providing support.
Fathers will be encouraged to share stories of their own boyhoods,
to express some of the joys and fears, and to help their sons
to recognize the manhood that awaits them. Boys will be gently
invited to talk about their lives, their hopes and dreams, the
stories that most attract them.
It is our hope this gathering will become a tradition that gently
and joyfully guides boys into their adolescence and manhood. We
believe the passage into manhood among the most important a boy
will make in his life. Although he may not recognize it, a boy
approaching manhood benefi ts greatly from an aware father standing
with him. We encourage and support the partnership.
Fathers and sons will have time away from each other, with the
other fathers and sons, to do personal work. In some cases, the
stories and processes need to be separate, with more orchestrated
encounters when fathers and sons come back together.
Coming Together
There will be a spirit of celebration. Each of the men, and their
sons, stepsons or nephews, will gain a new understanding of this
most primary relationship. It is one each of us has struggled
with, embraced at times, shunned other times, but has eventually
come to appreciate. In the power of council, ritual, wild nature
and soulful community, the beauty of fathers and sons will bless
us all.
Blessed indeed is the man
who hears many gentle voices call him father!
Lydia M. Child
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Details
Participants will begin at 4pm Thursday, and return by 2pm Sunday. Fresh,
wholesome meals will be provided, starting with Thursday dinner
and ending with Sunday lunch. Directions and a gear list will
be sent to you upon receipt of your registration.
Staff
Led by MLA senior staff. You can view biographies of
here.
We look forward to hearing your stories of
the beauty and challenge of being fathers and sons in the modern world. |
Cost
We offer a sliding scale registration ranging from $450-600. We ask that you pay what you can afford
and help with scholarships. We know that this program is worth the $600, but we want to assure that
everyone who wishes to attend is not held back due to financial consideration.
A minimum non-refundable deposit of $150 is required to hold your reservation and assure you of a spot
in this gathering. Meals are included. Space is limited to 12 father/son pairs.
If you wish to set up a payment plan or inquire about a scholar- ship, please arrange with the MLA office
prior to the event. Click HERE to download the MLA Scholarship Application Form.
| Deposit: (non-refundable) |
| $150 | reserves your participation |
| Fee: |
| before June 4 |
$450-600 |
| June 4 to 18 |
$525-500 |
| after June 18 |
$600 |
| on-site Payment |
$660 |
| Cancellation: |
| before June 4 |
full refund (minus deposit) |
| June 4 to 18 |
75% refund (minus deposit) |
| after June 18 |
no refund |
Registration
Register on-line for this program using our secure online payment service:
Fathers and Sons Retreat
Ages 9-12
July 8-11, 2009 |
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Or you can print, fill-out, and mail your registration using the form below. Please
include your deposit or registration fee by check made payable to
"Men's Leadership Alliance".
After you Register
Please write us a short letter outlining your reasons
for coming. State your age and the age of your son, stepson,
or nephew. Be sure to let us know if you have a specific desire
for an outcome you would like to achieve at the gathering.
Once we have received your full registration, you
will receive a detailed schedule of retreat activities, a gear
list, and a list of questions to entertain with your son, stepson
or nephew prior to arriving. Partipation in this event is limited
to 12 boys.
Further Information
Download the brochure for this program
For more information or other inquiries please
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