Gayla XXX
30 Years at Ferry Beach!

For gay or bisexual men, fighting to make our way in the “straight man’s world”  can sometimes be a very lonely and often perilous journey.  As we have discovered in our “coming out” process, there is no ready-made role model or single template for us to follow as we strive to make progress in our life-long journey toward becoming the best gay or bi man we can possibly be--spiritually, sexually, emotionally, and physically.  In an effort to be successful and safe in our quest, many thoughtful gay and bisexual men have realized that we can maximize our personal, as well as collective growth, by forming a community or a brotherhood of men expressly designed to provide mutual support, nurturance, friendship, loving, and mentoring of one another. 

Thirty years ago the GAYLA Conference was established at Ferry Beach as one of the earliest communities of gay brotherhood in the United States.   During the week of July 12-19, 2008 more than 100 diverse gay and bisexual men will celebrate the spirit of 30 years of brotherhood, as they reunite in GAYLA’s intentional community.  Over the years hundreds of men from Maine to Texas, Florida to Canada, and from Scotland to Hong Kong have come to the Beach to rekindle friendships, renew their gay spirituality, find love, and experience the re-creation of a community of purpose and brotherhood.  For thirty years, the spirit of GAYLA brotherhood has continued to be a very important personal touchstone in the growth of all the men who have attended.  Sustaining the spirit of this far-flung brotherhood developed during GAYLA week throughout the year has also become very important to GAYLA brothers.  The brothers sustain their spirit by organizing periodic winter reunions, area social events and pot-lucks; publishing a newsletter; and establishing a virtual network through email and a GAYLA brothers only Yahoo group. 

Single and partnered gay and bisexual men ages 18 and up are invited to come to GAYLA XXX for an all-inclusive, affordable vacation alternative that could potentially change their lives. Help celebrate our past, present, and future.  During a week at GAYLA you will be given opportunities to discover your true nature as you share your experiences, expand your horizons, have fun, and learn from your brothers.  Choose from a variety of daily activities including track sessions.  As of press time, GAYLA XXX tracks include: “Alternative Sex Play: From Prude to Pro!“ with Brian Gill, “Making Spiritual Practice Part of Your Daily Life“ with Chris DiGiorgio, “Embracing the Inner Child Within“ with Richard Barrett, "Great Queer Composers and How They Touch Us" with David Tidyman and "How to Be a Team Player aka Sports for Sissies" with Coach Troy Liston.  Our always talented FB Ecology and Art staff are expected to be offering “Seacoast Ecology“ and “Gay Men's Art” tracks.  Among other offerings presently under active consideration include: “The Maturing Gay Man” and “Gays and the Bible”.  Contact www.gayla.org or gayla_coordinators@cox.net for more up-to-date track and other conference information as GAYLA week approaches.

At GAYLA you will also have opportunities during the week to share your own particular strengths with your GAYLA brothers.  You will have the opportunity to participate in our conferee-initiated Open Space afternoon sessions, GAYLA Men‘s Chorus performances, Morning Chapel in the Grove (optional), Talent/No Talent show, “Decades of Decadence” Tea Dance, creating and wearing fabulous outfits, and participating in festively themed evening activities. Since this is GAYLA's milestone 30th anniversary year, we are also planning some very special surprises for all.   Of course, if and when you need to decompress, you will always have the option of just sitting back, relaxing, and enjoying the beach amidst the waves and scenic sand dunes or on Quillen porch with the refreshing ocean breezes and beautiful Maine scenery serving as a backdrop for fellowship. 

Come to Ferry Beach to experience and celebrate the spirit of brotherhood with us!!!  Students and others who desire confidential, needs-based "Helping Hands" financial assistance are invited to contact GAYLA Treasurer Wayne Cotnoir at waynecot1@cox.net, as soon as possible.

Coordinators: Tom Cowen, Mark Doty, Michael Folkman, John Gawel and Tom Malone. Treasurer: Wayne Cotnoir
Minister of the Week: Rev. Howard Dana
GAYLA Musician of the Week: David Tidyman