
The clearest way into the Universe is through a forest wilderness.
— JOHN MUIR
Male Spirit Retreat 2025
Male Spirit: A Hero’s Journey
A Male Spirit Interfaith Retreat for Men
Directed by Br. Joe Kilikevice, OP, Director Emeritus Shem Center
and Rev. Steve Miller, Acting Director Shem Center
October 31 - November 2, 2025
LaSalle Manor Retreat Center
12480 Galena Road, Plano, IL 60545
"On the hero's journey, we need not risk the adventure alone; for the heroes of all time have gone before us; the labyrinth is thoroughly known; we have only to follow the thread of the hero-path." ~ Joseph Campbell
You are invited to explore the hero’s journey on this year’s Shem Center Male Spirit retreat. This interfaith experience will be held at beautiful LaSalle Manor in Plano, Illinois, October 31-November 2, 2025.
Our retreat will draw upon many spiritual traditions as we reflect upon our own heroic life-path, then identify our strengths and challenges in the supportive companionship of other men. This is no small task, as we join the company of other men to claim our place of action in a world in need of justice, kindness, and compassion.
Experienced leadership will guide this retreat using prayer, song, meditation, sacred dance, and small and large group sharing as we create the retreat together.
Please join this Male Spirit hero’s journey retreat and bring a friend.
Men new to a Male Spirit retreat are always warmly welcomed.
— Respectfully,
Steve Miller and Joe Kilikevice
Date and Time:
Check-in beginning at 5 PM, Dinner 5:30 PM on Friday, October 31.
The retreat concludes November 2.
Car pooling encouraged: ask if you need/offer a ride.
Commitment to Entire Retreat:
It is important to commit to the entire retreat from beginning to end. The delicate balance of trust and intimacy are jarred by late arrivals and early departures.
Fee:
$375 by 10/1/25, then $405. Includes room, meals, spiritual guidance, materials.
All reservations appreciated by 10/1, final reservation date is 10/21/25.
Contributions:
The actual cost of the retreat exceeds that amount. Financial support by the sponsors and fundraising efforts reduce your fee, above. If you can afford the full cost, please consider making an optional contribution to help some who cannot.
If you desire a tax deduction for an optional contribution, simply make a separate donation.
Financial Aid:
We do not want cost to prevent any man from attending. Limited Scholarships up to 50% of the cost may become available – all held in strict confidence. Please submit your Registration with a note requesting consideration.
Cancellations:
Full refunds will be made until 10/11/25. 50% refunds until 10/21/25. After then, funds have been committed.
Meals:
This retreat includes nutritious meals and vegetarian options. If you have special dietary needs, please indicate on your Registration.
Fathers and Sons:
This retreat is especially powerful for fathers and sons.
Questions:
Call Jeff Barbalics, 216-396-5461, jbarbalics2@gmail.com
Male Spirit Retreat 2025
Registration and payment for Male Spirit Retreat 2025
If you wish to make an optional contribution to the Shem Center for Interfaith Spirituality, your gift is tax deductible at the donation page.
Shem Center for Interfaith Spirituality
708 North Harvey Avenue
Oak Park, IL 60302
(708) 848-1095
shemcenter1993@gmail.com
Photo Credits: Emory Mead, Stephen B. Starr, Joseph Kilikevice
The Shem Center for Interfaith Spirituality website is awarded a 2022 American Digital Design Award for excellence in design and user experience.
