Coming of Age

Rites of Passage into Elderhood

People go abroad to wonder at the height of mountains, at the huge waves of the sea, at the long courses of the rivers, at the vast compass of the ocean, at the circular motion of the stars; and they pass by themselves without wondering.

- Augustine of Hippo

Coming of Age: Rites of Passage into Elderhood

FALL 2026

Are you approaching your sixties and don't want to be one of those who get old, pining away for the energy and purpose of your past?

Have you been retired for a while and want the years that you have left to be a culmination of a well-lived life?

Rites of Passage have been practiced for thousands of years throughout the ancient world. They predate all institutional forms of religion and guide people in negotiating the transition. They are a rich tradition of story, ritual, questions and conversation, teaching and solitude, art and music.

In September and October 2026, the Lawrence Elder Circle will offer Coming of Age, a three-weekend immersive experience for men and women who want their fourth quarter to be the best years of their lives. Coming of Age will offer them the opportunity to:

Review and celebrate their youth and middle years, and discern what to hold onto and what to let go of.
Release non-generative burdens and explore inherent qualities and gifts.
Return to a new niche in their communities with enriched energy.

Coming of Age is an organic, affordable, immersive experience that addresses the whole person—heart, mind, body, imagination, soul, and spirit. It generously draws on resources from the Western tradition while also opening to the rich gifts of other global wisdom traditions.

This seminar extends over three weekends:

Weekend I: Reviewing Life and Giving Thanks

Friday, September 11, 2026: 2:00 pm - 7:15 pm

Saturday, September 12, 2026: 9:00 am - 7:15 pm

Weekend II: Releasing Baggage and Embracing Gifts

Friday, September 25, 2026: 2:00 p.m. - 7:15 p.m.

Saturday, September 26, 2026: 9:00 a.m. - 7:15 p.m.

Weekend III: Venturing into Wisdom and a New Role

Friday, October 9, 2026: 2:00 p.m. - 7:15 p.m.

Saturday, October 10, 2026: 9:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m.

Cost: $175 includes meals, staffing, facility, and materials.

Enrollment: Limited to 50 participants.

Meals: Vegan options included.

Location: Trinity Lutheran Church, 1245 New Hampshire St., Lawrence, KS 66044

Facilities: All accessible with parking.

For more information, email info@lawrenceeldercircle.org