Solo Quests are a traditional way to mark the passage into manhood, and offer a chance for our boys to “go inside” and tune into the world around them without the distractions so common in our time. Folks who have done solos often report more clarity, purpose, and confidence in themselves after their experience.
Our ROPAW Solos are an excellent opportunity for boys that have attended a ROPAW previously, but the event is also appropriate for boys who are newer to the work and ready for an intense, meaningful, and challenging experience.
Our tuition cost is $500.00, which helps us cover food and materials. A non-refundable deposit of $100 is due two weeks before the Quest begins, with the remaining balance payable by the Monday before Quest begins. We do not want cost to be a prohibitive factor for families, so please reach out if you are interested in registering but need scholarship help in order to make it a reality.
Jordan Bowman
919.907.1177
jordan@journeymentriangle.org
Rites of passage have played an important role in many cultures for thousands of years. A primary function of any rite of passage is to allow children to choose a new adult identity in their community. Adults help to facilitate this process, and help them gain the skills and understanding that they will need to fulfill their potential as members of the community.
The isolation in a primitive setting removes participants from the routines and patterns of their lives so that they can “re-create” themselves. They are given the opportunity to let go of old patterns that might no longer serve them.
Our weekend incorporates physical, mental, and emotional tests. These tests help the initiate discover inner resources that he was previously unaware of, helping him gain new self-respect and confidence. In our weekend events, the tests are challenging, but do not involve winning and losing, which we believe could create the potential for shame. Each initiate has the opportunity to test himself in ways that build self-esteem and facilitates growth.
Following a traditional rite of passage, a young man’s family and community celebrate his change of status with a welcome home ceremony, which usually involves some form of sharing food together. Following Journeymen’s ROPAW, the young men who participated are honored for their accomplishments with a homecoming feast. The Homecoming ceremony is held on the Sunday following the ROPAW. We encourage friends and family to participate in the Homecoming ceremony.
Initiated young men, who are accomplished J-Men (Journeymen) are encouraged to return and staff ROPAW as a way to participate and benefit further from this community building event. Any man (18 years of age or older), who passes a screening process, including a criminal background check, may be considered to staff the weekend.
If you have questions regarding the upcoming ROPAW please contact us.
