Crossroads in the Wilderness

Crossroads in the WildernessReconnecting Men, God, and Earth

Welcome and thanks for visiting CITW. This is a story about an experience that happened and a mens retreat that will happen.1

Scared and surprised..What was I doing here?! What are these guys doing in the woods here?!Ive never seen anything like this!

Spirit had gotten me here somehow, but now I was on high alert and fearing the unknown.2

..became reborn and inspired for life!

My heart felt opened in ways I hadnt imagined. I felt on a high, but solid. A new beginning like baptism. For me and for many other men.3

Spirit in action & transformationA Gospel of grace and forgiveness, of liberation and reconciliation that transforms self and society. This is what I experienced.

Though the language was different, this was the Christ Way. Lives were being transformed, hearts were opening, and men were connecting.4

What made that experience so powerful and meaningful?What elements made this happen?What is it that mens souls need?

Ive identified a few aspects that were at the core of the power of this experience.5

Men need retreatAnd the Spirit drove him into the wilderness

We need to get away to go within, to change our consciousness and awareness level to be tested and opened and renewed.6

Men are of the earthAnd God formed an adam from the adamah

We retreat back to a more primal space to reconnect with our origin which is our essence. It is a primal energetic of return and reconnection.7

Men need ritualThey devoted themselves to the apostles teaching and to the breaking of bread and the prayers

Ritual is a primal language of image and metaphor that can connect more deeply than fully explained thoughts and spoken words.8

Men are embodiedAnd the Word became flesh

Our human experience is one of incarnation. Incarnation applies to all of us. Men are often limited in their bodies to certain forms of experience.9

Men need each otherAnd God saw that it was not good for the man made of earth to be alone.

Men in particular have more trouble maintaining deep friendships. Many men rely too much on their romantic partner to fulfill this need.10

Why hadnt I seen this kind of soul work around the church?

Your young men shall see visions, and your old men dream dreams- Acts 2

This was not an intentionally Christian gathering, but it was the essence of the Gospel. It was a Community of Christ.11

A Vision for a new Christian Mens Retreat and Path Experiential

Progressive

Get men into their whole selves. Open minded and open for all kinds of men; all ages, colors, and persuasions.12

CrossRoads is a place to experience the WayThis retreat provides men with the support and guidance to find or further their way on the Spirit Path that Jesus traveled and taught.

People dont talk at you or about things. We get into it. Heres what youll find at CrossRoads in the Wilderness.13

Sit in CouncilMen are heard without judgment or shame. We listen in Grace together to what Spirit is saying.

The Way of Council slows us down to really listen deeply to others and ourselves. Thats where we hear Spirit talking.14

Reconnect to God in ritualMen rediscover ancient ways to pray and to feel Spirit moving. We can be silent, noisy, still, and raucous in our celebration and contemplation.

Ritual is a language deeper and more primal than everyday conversation. It has the power to change things.15

Reconnect to CreationOur time is spent mostly outdoors, slowing down to natures pace, and feeling Creations primal wisdom and energy.

We leave behind our cell phones and electronics. There is sun and moon and stars. We will also have time to solo in the woods.16

Reconnect to MenMen are here in strength and support. No competition , no macho. All kinds of men are welcome and affirmed as brothers.

This might be the best part! Ive never had as many friends as I do now in my life. We became brothers in this journey.17

Reconnecting Men to their Own Soul JourneyCouncil and communityRitualCreationPersonal Guidance and Process

Through all these means, men simultaneously get connected to something Greater outside themselves and within themselves.18

What is CrossRoads in the Wilderness?New experiential retreat for Christian identified or curious men Group sharing, ritual, personal process, and time in the wildernessCamp setting; bunk beds , bathrooms , & meals

Heres what is being offered. 19

Who should come to CrossRoads?Men who are.18 or olderIn transition of life stage or lossWorking on relationship issuesSeeking rest and revitalizationDesiring connection to other menWanting to revitalize their Spirit connectionLooking for empowerment in leadership

Lots of men come to this kind of gathering. Theres no confession or test of faith necessary. Just a call within that says, its time.20

What might men expect to take Away from CrossRoads?New vision & energySoulful connections with menRenewed sense of purpose and serviceA vital relationship with Spirit & the Christ Way

Come be with us.CrossRoads in the Wilderness: Reconnecting Men, God, and Earth

Friday, August 7 Sunday, August 9Boulder County, Colorado

Led by Rev. Todd Smiedendorf and StaffSliding Scale $275 - $450

Scholarships available!!!(Early bird discount: $50 off if paid by July 8)

www.MensLeadershipAlliance.org

This is an opportunity to deepen in Spirit and receive soulful gifts that can be taken back to family, community, and world.22