FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Can men with disabilities be accommodated?

Although Aravaipa Ranch is not subject to the Americans With Disabilities Act (ADA) we will make every effort within our power 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 or call our registration coordinator Al Selder at (480) 818-0943.

Are there age restrictions?

Yes. The minimum age for participating in the MROP is 21. There is no maximum age. For men older than 65, you may wish to consider the Elder Rites of Passage (EROP), a program hosted by Illuman of Washington and designed specifically for men ages 65-80.

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.

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.

What time does the program start on April 24?

You must arrive at Aravaipa Ranch no earlier than 1:00 PM and no later than 3:00 PM on the date we begin (Wednesday, April 24, 2024). 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.

What time does the program end on April 28?

We plan to end by 1:00 PM on Sunday, April 28, 2024. By submitting an application to attend the MROP, you are agreeing to participate in the entire program.

Does Illuman provide transportation to and from the airport?

Round trip transportation from Phoenix to the Aravaipa Canyon Ranch is not included in the cost of the retreat. We will assist in creating car pools from the Phoenix International Airport beginning around 12:00 PM on Wednesday, April 24, and returning to the airport by 6:00 PM on Sunday, April 28. Details will be a part of the full confirmation email you receive.

What is the cost to attend the MROP?

Total cost to attend the MROP is $695 (including meals, lodging, resources and materials). We expect a $50 deposit at the time of registration. The balance will be due by March 31, 2024.

What is the cancellation policy?

Those who cancel by March 31, 2024 can expect to receive a 100% refund, less the nonrefundable $50 deposit. Those cancelling after March 31 but before April 10, will receive a 50% refund less the nonrefundable $50 deposit. And those who cancel April 10 or later will not be eligible for a refund.

Is financial assistance available?

Limited financial assistance is available for partial scholarships to help offset registration fees only. To receive a scholarship, you will begin by registering for the MROP which includes payment of a $50.00 deposit. In your confirmation email will be a link to the scholarship application and instructions for applying to receive financial assistance. You must download the application, complete the information requested, and submit it electronically (scan and email attachment) or by mail. If we are not able to provide you with a scholarship and you choose not to attend, we will refund your deposit upon receipt of your request.

I prefer to register by mail and pay by check. Can I do that?

Yes you can. Download and print the registration form, complete it and mail with your $50 deposit made out to AZ Males Spirituality to Illuman of Arizona c/o Al Selder, 3351 E Yellowstone Pl, Chandler, AZ 85249. For assistance email or call our registration coordinator Al Selder at (480) 818-0943.

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.

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.

What is the deadline to register?

To ensure your place in the Men’s Rites of Passage, please register no later than March 31, 2024.

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). If accepted you will receive a letter/email containing further details regarding the MROP along with instructions for completing the required Medical and Travel Forms, as well as instructions for final payment.