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The Rite of Return is a rite of passage for warriors seeking to answer the soul’s call for deep healing in the wilderness in order to lay down what longer serves and step into who you are truly called to be after military service. Separated from society, in solidarity and solitude, cross the threshold as a Whole Warrior to answer Who Am I? What’s My Purpose? Where do I Belong? 

This ancient, cross-cultural ceremony has proven to drastically reduce the symptoms of post-traumatic stress, compassion fatigue, moral injury, and suicidal ideation by embracing the wholeness of our human experience and true nature.

The Ceremony 

The 11-day ceremony will be held in the wilderness of Eastern Washington with trained veteran and non-veteran guides. Participants experience time in community with other vets, four days of solo time, fasting in the wilderness, and a marked return where their stories are shared and witnessed in a“council of elders”. This return marks the beginning of a veteran’s process of incorporating that which they have gained and learned during their time in service and explored in the context of time alone in the wilderness, so they may bring their gifts home, able to participate more fully in service of their families and their community.  Initiates will be supported throughout their incorporation year by Veteran Rites and the circle of whole warriors they are initiated with.

Eligibility

The Rite of Return is available to Current and Prior Military Service Members, Spouses, Partners, Gold Star (18+), and Dependent Survivors of Veteran Suicide. Veteran Rites will work with every warrior called to the land to fully prepare physically, mentally, and spiritually for their Rite of Return journey and address unique barriers and conditions that may prevent participation.

COVID-19

Veteran Rites has adopted enhanced safety protocols and practices to prevent and mitigate transmission of the coronavirus among participants, our loved ones, and communities before, during, and after the ceremony.

CLAIM YOUR SEAT AND ANSWER THE CALL BELOW

HELD IN THE WILDERNESS OF EASTERN WASHINGTON APRIL 21 - MAY 1, 2021

RITE OF RETURN CEREMONIES ARE LIMITED TO (8) PARTICIPANTS

Email Ryan Mielcarek at council@veteranrites.org if you have any problems in filling out this form or have any questions. We are here for you.