The Men’s Circle is a space that is open to all men and male identifying people who seek a communal contemplative experience that supports them on their journey.

Each Gathering will consist of a time to catch up, a brief reflection on the theme for that Gathering, shared silence, and an emphasis on practicing the Way of the Circle together.

The Way of the Circle is a practice of speaking, listening, and processing through the heart while letting go of any need to control, fix, or judge what is spoken or heard. The practice opens a deeper and more meaningful way of communicating and fosters compassion and empathy for one another. The purpose of this practice is to deepen our connection to self, one another, nature, and the sacred.

Themes for this year will include: life is hard, you are not important, your life is not about you, you are not in control, and you are going to die, drawing heavily upon the book, Adam’s Return: The Five Promises of Male Initiation by Richard Rohr. Individuals will be invited to read designated sections of the book in advance, but this is not a requirement.

The Men’s Circle will meet approximately once/month at various locations around West Michigan, usually around a fire in someone’s backyard. We’re committed to gathering outdoors in all weather conditions, and will only reschedule or move indoors if there is a legitimate safety concern.

Please consider bringing a beverage and snack to share. There is no charge to participate.

The Men’s Circle will initially be facilitated by Matt Laidlaw, but our intention is that eventually this role will be shared by many in the community.

Contact Matt at mlaidlaw@opencirclecommunity.org if you’re interested in joining us.

Join us on Sunday, April 21 from 7-9pm for a Craft, Creativity, and Conversation Meetup. We'll provide a creative space, refreshments, and some coloring pages and markers. Participants are invited to bring curiosity, a willingness to consider creativity, any other craft or project they'd like to work on in this space, and any snacks or beverages you might want to share. Mostly, just bring yourself!

This event is hosted by Kim Stoub and Brooke Tower, and is open to any female, female identifying, and/or non-binary individuals who are age 18 or older.

Please RSVP to Brooke Tower by Thursday, April 18 at brooketower@yahoo.com. You will receive an address and directions to her home in Jenison when you RSVP.

Small Plate Potluck:
Everyone bring an appetizer. Bonus points to whoever brings an appetizer AND a dessert.
***Please bring appropriate serving utensils, and provide labels if you bring anything that is “allergen-friendly.”

Neighbor: Camp Sunshine
Bring at least one unopened snack-sized bag of chips for Camp Sunshine.

Following Along with our “How To Be Human: Conversations about Reality, Relationship, and Ritual” Series?
Read Chapters 3 and 4 of “The Power of Ritual: Turning Everyday Activities into Soulful Practices” by Casper ter Kuile.

Join us on Sunday, March 31 from 10-11am at Provin Trails for Easter Outside. This casual outdoor Gathering will be for all ages and will meet in all potential weather conditions [For clarity: There's no Childcare and you need to dress for the weather, as we’ll only cancel if there is a legitimate safety concern]. Together, we’ll experience a brief Easter reflection, a guided practice, and an opportunity to encounter one another and nature on a short hike. Everyone is welcome.

The Men’s Circle is a space that is open to all men and male identifying people who seek a communal contemplative experience that supports them on their journey.

Each Gathering will consist of a time to catch up, a brief reflection on the theme for that Gathering, shared silence, and an emphasis on practicing the Way of the Circle together.

The Way of the Circle is a practice of speaking, listening, and processing through the heart while letting go of any need to control, fix, or judge what is spoken or heard. The practice opens a deeper and more meaningful way of communicating and fosters compassion and empathy for one another. The purpose of this practice is to deepen our connection to self, one another, nature, and the sacred.

Themes for this year will include: life is hard, you are not important, your life is not about you, you are not in control, and you are going to die, drawing heavily upon the book, Adam’s Return: The Five Promises of Male Initiation by Richard Rohr. Individuals will be invited to read designated sections of the book in advance, but this is not a requirement.

The Men’s Circle will meet approximately once/month at various locations around West Michigan, usually around a fire in someone’s backyard. We’re committed to gathering outdoors in all weather conditions, and will only reschedule or move indoors if there is a legitimate safety concern.

Please consider bringing a beverage and snack to share. There is no charge to participate.

The Men’s Circle will initially be facilitated by Matt Laidlaw, but our intention is that eventually this role will be shared by many in the community.

Contact Matt at mlaidlaw@opencirclecommunity.org if you’re interested in joining us.

Join ANFT certified forest therapy guide, Katie Venechuk, on the evening of the Spring Equinox. This event begins with a brief introduction to the background and research of shirin-yoku (translated in English as "forest bathing"), how it differs from a hike in the woods, and why it's internationally recognized as an effective tool for natural stress release. From there, you'll be guided in a unique shinrin-yoku experience while exploring the beautiful forest; helping you relax, reconnect, and experience your time in nature in a new way. [The cost of this event is $15 per person, however, we don’t want finances to be an obstacle to participation. Please contact us if you have a financial need.]
REGISTER FOR THIS EVENT BY MARCH 11

Small Plate Potluck:
Everyone bring an appetizer. Bonus points to whoever brings an appetizer AND a dessert.
***Please bring appropriate serving utensils, and provide labels if you bring anything that is “allergen-friendly.”

Neighbor: AYA Youth Collective
Bring at least one unopened bottle of Palmolive dish soap [or comparable brand] for AYA Youth Collective.

Following Along with our “How To Be Human: Conversations about Reality, Relationship, and Ritual” Series?
Read Chapter 2 of “The Power of Ritual: Turning Everyday Activities into Soulful Practices” by Casper ter Kuile.

The Men’s Circle is a space that is open to all men and male identifying people who seek a communal contemplative experience that supports them on their journey.

Each Gathering will consist of a time to catch up, a brief reflection on the theme for that Gathering, shared silence, and an emphasis on practicing the Way of the Circle together.

The Way of the Circle is a practice of speaking, listening, and processing through the heart while letting go of any need to control, fix, or judge what is spoken or heard. The practice opens a deeper and more meaningful way of communicating and fosters compassion and empathy for one another. The purpose of this practice is to deepen our connection to self, one another, nature, and the sacred.

Themes for this year will include: life is hard, you are not important, your life is not about you, you are not in control, and you are going to die, drawing heavily upon the book, Adam’s Return: The Five Promises of Male Initiation by Richard Rohr. Individuals will be invited to read designated sections of the book in advance, but this is not a requirement.

The Men’s Circle will meet approximately once/month at various locations around West Michigan, usually around a fire in someone’s backyard. We’re committed to gathering outdoors in all weather conditions, and will only reschedule or move indoors if there is a legitimate safety concern.

Please consider bringing a beverage and snack to share. There is no charge to participate.

The Men’s Circle will initially be facilitated by Matt Laidlaw, but our intention is that eventually this role will be shared by many in the community.

Contact Matt at mlaidlaw@opencirclecommunity.org if you’re interested in joining us.

Small Plate Potluck:
Everyone bring an appetizer. Bonus points to whoever brings an appetizer AND a dessert.
***Please bring appropriate serving utensils, and provide labels if you bring anything that is “allergen-friendly.”

Neighbor: Kids' Food Basket
Bring at least one individually wrapped meat stick [or unopened package of individually wrapped meat sticks] for Kids’ Food Basket. [Slim Jims, Jack Links, etc.]

Following Along with our “How To Be Human: Conversations about Reality, Relationship, and Ritual” Series?
Read Chapter 1 of “The Power of Ritual: Turning Everyday Activities into Soulful Practices” by Casper ter Kuile.

The Men’s Circle is a space that is open to all men and male identifying people who seek a communal contemplative experience that supports them on their journey.

Each Gathering will consist of a time to catch up, a brief reflection on the theme for that Gathering, shared silence, and an emphasis on practicing the Way of the Circle together.

The Way of the Circle is a practice of speaking, listening, and processing through the heart while letting go of any need to control, fix, or judge what is spoken or heard. The practice opens a deeper and more meaningful way of communicating and fosters compassion and empathy for one another. The purpose of this practice is to deepen our connection to self, one another, nature, and the sacred.

Themes for this year will include: life is hard, you are not important, your life is not about you, you are not in control, and you are going to die, drawing heavily upon the book, Adam’s Return: The Five Promises of Male Initiation by Richard Rohr. Individuals will be invited to read designated sections of the book in advance, but this is not a requirement.

The Men’s Circle will meet approximately once/month at various locations around West Michigan, usually around a fire in someone’s backyard. We’re committed to gathering outdoors in all weather conditions, and will only reschedule or move indoors if there is a legitimate safety concern.

Please consider bringing a beverage and snack to share. There is no charge to participate.

The Men’s Circle will initially be facilitated by Matt Laidlaw, but our intention is that eventually this role will be shared by many in the community.

Contact Matt at mlaidlaw@opencirclecommunity.org if you’re interested in joining us.

Small Plate Potluck:
Everyone bring an appetizer. Bonus points to whoever brings an appetizer AND a dessert.
***Please bring appropriate serving utensils, and provide labels if you bring anything that is “allergen-friendly.”

Neighbor: Kids' Food Basket
Bring at least one individually wrapped meat stick [or unopened package of individually wrapped meat sticks] for Kids’ Food Basket. [Slim Jims, Jack Links, etc.]

Following Along with our “How To Be Human: Conversations about Reality, Relationship, and Ritual” Series?
Read Chapter 1 of “The Power of Ritual: Turning Everyday Activities into Soulful Practices” by Casper ter Kuile.

Join us for an outdoor Christmas Gathering on the darkest day of the year. This Gathering will be for all ages and will meet in all potential weather conditions [For clarity: There's no Childcare and you need to dress for the weather, as we’ll only cancel if there is a legitimate safety concern]. Together, we’ll experience a brief reflection, a guided practice, and an opportunity to encounter one another and nature on a short hike. Everyone is welcome. [Please park at the “Group Campsite Lot” located between the Main Entrance and 120th Avenue, and please bring one small flashlight per family/group.]

Small Plate Potluck:
Everyone bring an appetizer. Bonus points to whoever brings an appetizer AND a dessert.
***Please bring appropriate serving utensils, and provide labels if you bring anything that is “allergen-friendly.”

Neighbor: Grace’s Table
Bring at least one unopened container of baby wipes for Grace’s Table.

Following Along with our “How To Be Human: Conversations about Reality, Relationship, and Ritual” Series?
Read the Preface and Introduction of “The Power of Ritual: Turning Everyday Activities into Soulful Practices” by Casper ter Kuile.

Join us on Monday, November 27 at 7:30pm for a Holiday Pub Meetup at Blue Dog Tavern. There is no agenda for this meetup other than to enjoy drinks and one another. Everyone is welcome. If you have any questions, please contact Matt at mlaidlaw@opencirclecommunity.org.

The Men’s Circle is a space that is open to all men and male identifying people who seek a communal contemplative experience that supports them on their journey.

Each Gathering will consist of a time to catch up, a brief reflection on the theme for that Gathering, shared silence, and an emphasis on practicing the Way of the Circle together.

The Way of the Circle is a practice of speaking, listening, and processing through the heart while letting go of any need to control, fix, or judge what is spoken or heard. The practice opens a deeper and more meaningful way of communicating and fosters compassion and empathy for one another. The purpose of this practice is to deepen our connection to self, one another, nature, and the sacred.

Themes for this year will include: life is hard, you are not important, your life is not about you, you are not in control, and you are going to die, drawing heavily upon the book, Adam’s Return: The Five Promises of Male Initiation by Richard Rohr. Individuals will be invited to read designated sections of the book in advance, but this is not a requirement.

The Men’s Circle will meet approximately once/month at various locations around West Michigan, usually around a fire in someone’s backyard. We’re committed to gathering outdoors in all weather conditions, and will only reschedule or move indoors if there is a legitimate safety concern.

Please consider bringing a beverage and snack to share. There is no charge to participate.

The Men’s Circle will initially be facilitated by Matt Laidlaw, but our intention is that eventually this role will be shared by many in the community.

Contact Matt at mlaidlaw@opencirclecommunity.org if you’re interested in joining us.

Small Plate Potluck:
Everyone bring an appetizer. Bonus points to whoever brings an appetizer AND a dessert.
***Please bring appropriate serving utensils, and provide labels if you bring anything that is “allergen-friendly.”

Neighbor: Safe Haven Ministries
Bring at least one unopened roll of 2-ply paper towels for Safe Haven Ministries.

Following Along with our “How To Be Human: Conversations about Reality, Relationship, and Ritual” Series?
Read the Preface and Introduction of “The Power of Ritual: Turning Everyday Activities into Soulful Practices” by Casper ter Kuile.

The Men’s Circle is a space that is open to all men and male identifying people who seek a communal contemplative experience that supports them on their journey.

Each Gathering will consist of a time to catch up, a brief reflection on the theme for that Gathering, shared silence, and an emphasis on practicing the Way of the Circle together.

The Way of the Circle is a practice of speaking, listening, and processing through the heart while letting go of any need to control, fix, or judge what is spoken or heard. The practice opens a deeper and more meaningful way of communicating and fosters compassion and empathy for one another. The purpose of this practice is to deepen our connection to self, one another, nature, and the sacred.

Themes for this year will include: life is hard, you are not important, your life is not about you, you are not in control, and you are going to die, drawing heavily upon the book, Adam’s Return: The Five Promises of Male Initiation by Richard Rohr. Individuals will be invited to read designated sections of the book in advance, but this is not a requirement.

The Men’s Circle will meet approximately once/month at various locations around West Michigan, usually around a fire in someone’s backyard. We’re committed to gathering outdoors in all weather conditions, and will only reschedule or move indoors if there is a legitimate safety concern.

Please consider bringing a beverage and snack to share. There is no charge to participate.

The Men’s Circle will initially be facilitated by Matt Laidlaw, but our intention is that eventually this role will be shared by many in the community.

Contact Matt at mlaidlaw@opencirclecommunity.org if you’re interested in joining us.

Small Plate Potluck:
Last Names A-L: Dessert
Last Names M-Z: Appetizer
***Please bring appropriate serving utensils, and provide labels if you bring anything that is “allergen-friendly.”

Neighbor: AYA Youth Collective
Bring at least one unopened package of size S, M, or XL Boxers for AYA Youth Collective.

Following Along with our “How To Be Human: Conversations about Reality, Relationship, and Ritual” Series?
Read the Preface and Introduction of “The Power of Ritual: Turning Everyday Activities into Soulful Practices” by Casper ter Kuile.

Everyone is invited to this community potluck dinner at Tabitha and Alex Blanski's home. Bring yourself and a dish to share. Children are welcome. Please RSVP to alexander.blanski@gmail.com for the address and directions.

The Men’s Circle is a space that is open to all men and male identifying people who seek a communal contemplative experience that supports them on their journey.

Each Gathering will consist of a time to catch up, a brief reflection on the theme for that Gathering, shared silence, and an emphasis on practicing the Way of the Circle together.

The Way of the Circle is a practice of speaking, listening, and processing through the heart while letting go of any need to control, fix, or judge what is spoken or heard. The practice opens a deeper and more meaningful way of communicating and fosters compassion and empathy for one another. The purpose of this practice is to deepen our connection to self, one another, nature, and the sacred.

Themes for this year will include: life is hard, you are not important, your life is not about you, you are not in control, and you are going to die, drawing heavily upon the book, Adam’s Return: The Five Promises of Male Initiation by Richard Rohr. Individuals will be invited to read designated sections of the book in advance, but this is not a requirement.

The Men’s Circle will meet approximately once/month at various locations around West Michigan, usually around a fire in someone’s backyard. We’re committed to gathering outdoors in all weather conditions, and will only reschedule or move indoors if there is a legitimate safety concern.

Please consider bringing a beverage and snack to share. There is no charge to participate.

The Men’s Circle will initially be facilitated by Matt Laidlaw, but our intention is that eventually this role will be shared by many in the community.

Contact Matt at mlaidlaw@opencirclecommunity.org if you’re interested in joining us.

Small Plate Potluck:
Last Names A-L: Appetizer
Last Names M-Z: Dessert
***Please bring appropriate serving utensils, and provide labels if you bring anything that is “allergen-friendly.”

Neighbor: Kids' Food Basket
Bring at least one box of unopened Cheerios for Kids’ Food Basket. [Off brands are more than welcome. Cheerios are needed in bulk for KFB Trail Mix]

Following Along with our “How To Be Human: Conversations about Reality, Relationship, and Ritual” Series?
Read the Preface and Introduction of “The Power of Ritual: Turning Everyday Activities into Soulful Practices” by Casper ter Kuile.

Join us on Wednesday, August 2 from 7-9 pm at Long Road Distillers to celebrate our journey together over the past 5 (!!!) years and to learn more about where we go from here. If you have been a part of Open Circle in ANY way in the past, or you’ve been waiting for an opportunity to find out more about our community, we’d love to have you join us. Hannah Laine will be performing, we’ll provide light appetizers, and a cash bar will be available. There is no cost to participate in this event, but you need to RSVP by July 19.

Open Circle is going to the beach and everyone is invited! We have exclusive access to the Lakeview Pavilion and Lake Michigan beachfront at Camp Geneva in Holland. There is no formal schedule for our time together, so please feel free to join us anytime between 1pm and 5pm.

DETAILS:

Open Circle is providing:
-outdoor pavilion
-private beach
-access to indoor restrooms

We’re asking you to provide:
-your own food and refreshments
-your own towels, blankets, or chairs for seating
-any activities you’d like to enjoy

HOW MUCH DOES THIS COST?

There is no charge to join us for this event, but if you would like to support the mission of Open Circle, and help make more events like this possible, please consider making a financial contribution at opencirclecommunity.org/give

DIRECTIONS:

Enter through the "Geneva Shores" entrance at the intersection of Quincy and Lakeshore Drive. Follow the road to "Parking Lot F" and the "Lakeview Pavilion."

Cost: $18-$23/person [REGISTER]

Join ANFT certified forest therapy guide, Katie Venechuk, to explore the relaxing practice of shinrin-yoku and the beauty of Blandford Nature Center! This event begins with a brief introduction to the background and research of shirin-yoku (translated in English as "forest bathing"), how it differs from a hike in the woods, and why it's internationally recognized as an effective tool for natural stress release. From there, you'll be guided in a unique shinrin-yoku experience while exploring the beautiful forests and meadows of Blandford; helping you relax, reconnect, and experience your time in nature in a new way. [Please note this event is hosted by Blandford Nature Center]

Open Circle is a sponsor of the Grand Rapids Pride Festival on June 17th, and will be hosting a booth throughout the event. Come say hello anytime between 12 and 10pm, or if you would like to volunteer to help manage our booth during the event you can sign up here. You can find out more about the Grand Rapids Pride Festival here.

Grand Rapids Men's Council is simply a place of non-judgement that is open to any and all men and male identifying people who seek a communal contemplative experience that supports them on their journey.

Council is effective to the degree an individual is committed to depth and presence- this is a place to do your inner work with others; it is similarly a place to witness the inner work of others. If that sounds intimidating- don't worry, you don't need to know how. Clear guidance and structure will be offered in the moment to provide a good-enough container- simply come with a beginners mind and an open heart.

Please bring a drum of any kind, and your own coffee, tea, water, etc. There is no charge to participate.

Grand Rapids Men's Council is hosted by Phil Nellis, a friend of Open Circle. While it is associated with Illuman [an organization founded by Richard Rohr], no affiliation with Illuman or Open Circle is required in order to participate. If you have any questions, please contact Phil at nellis.phil@gmail.com.

[Councils take place on the third Saturday of each Month from 8am - 9:45am]

Small Plate Potluck:
Last Names A-L: Dessert
Last Names M-Z: Appetizer
***Please bring appropriate serving utensils, and provide labels if you bring anything that is “allergen-friendly.”

Community Partner: Safe Haven Ministries
Bring at least one container of unopened toothpaste for Safe Haven Ministries.

Following Along with our Series?
Read Chapter 10 of Eager to Love.

Join us on Monday, April 24 at 8pm for a Pub Meetup at Creston Brewery. There is no agenda for this meetup other than to enjoy drinks and one another. Everyone is welcome. If you have any questions, please contact Matt at mlaidlaw@opencirclecommunity.org.

Small Plate Potluck:
Last Names A-L: Appetizer
Last Names M-Z: Dessert
***Please bring appropriate serving utensils, and provide labels if you bring anything that is “allergen-friendly.”

Community Partner: Grace’s Table
Bring at least one container of unopened baby wipes for Grace’s Table.

Following Along with our Series?
Read Chapter 7 of Eager to Love.

Grand Rapids Men's Council is simply a place of non-judgement that is open to any and all men and male identifying people who seek a communal contemplative experience that supports them on their journey.

Council is effective to the degree an individual is committed to depth and presence- this is a place to do your inner work with others; it is similarly a place to witness the inner work of others. If that sounds intimidating- don't worry, you don't need to know how. Clear guidance and structure will be offered in the moment to provide a good-enough container- simply come with a beginners mind and an open heart.

Please bring a drum of any kind, and your own coffee, tea, water, etc. There is no charge to participate.

Grand Rapids Men's Council is hosted by Phil Nellis, a friend of Open Circle. While it is associated with Illuman [an organization founded by Richard Rohr], no affiliation with Illuman or Open Circle is required in order to participate. If you have any questions, please contact Phil at nellis.phil@gmail.com.

[Councils take place on the third Saturday of each Month from 8am - 9:45am]