The desert expanse of Koora Retreat Centre in Boorabbin National Park worked its magic on 18 male souls who attended the 2010 Men and Boys Camp 24th -27th September. As always, settling in at Koora brought an immediate sense of easy friendliness and cooperation as we helped each other to set up tents and organise our gear. The camaraderie between men, boys and teenagers was humourous, inspiring, touching and deeply satisfying. I am struck with a sense of sadness that so few men ever get the opportunity to spend a weekend in the company of such a great group of guys, walking, working, cooking, swimming, nurturing, fire-building, chilling-out, star-gazing, nature-studying, spud-gun-firing, laughing, playing, praying, sharing, reflecting and discussing together - not to mention mercilessly ribbing each other.
Our hosts, Peter Harrison and Anna Killigrew again welcomed us with warm hospitality, practical advice, mountains of food, plenty of humour and lots of activity to help us access the natural and spiritual treasures of the surrounding desert. It is a wonderful ministry they offer. Why not check out their website http://kooraretreat.yolasite.com/
During our discussions we examined our primal nature as hunter/gatherers and how culture and spirituality overlay our primal energy to direct it in positive ways leading ultimately to contentment, compassion, and wisdom. We spent time in the wilderness in groups and alone, discovering our own inner strength and realising the contemplative side of our nature. In our final discussion on the Monday morning many comments were made that directly or indirectly highlighted the power of the desert to act as a teacher, guide, leveller, or spiritual director.
I am grateful to all the men and boys who made time to attend the camp and make it such a profound experience.
It was a great weekend to get into a different "space" from normal and share with a wonderful group of guys (and Anna) what being a man in a changing world is all about.
ReplyDeleteIan
As a mother of three boys who attend these camps I am very grateful for the opportunities they have had to live in christian community in such a magnificent bush setting. The photos convey joy, earnest endeavour, and true commraderie. What an experience.
ReplyDeleteHelena.
The opportunity to relate as men around everything from setting up a tent to our spiritual journey is rare. I'm grateful to be able to bring my sons to an experience where discussing their spirituality is as normal as kicking the footy, and to rub shoulders with other blokes over a few days in the bush.
ReplyDeleteTim.
Yer i enjoyed the whole deal and am really looking forward to next year just being able to do things like from the bush walk to just cooking in the night it was all very enjoyable and all the blokes were really kind and funny i didnt expect it to be this great!!!
ReplyDeleteJayden