GAYLA
Saturday, July 12 - Saturday July 19, 2025
A Retreat for Men who Love Men
Saturday, July 12 - Saturday July 19, 2025
A Retreat for Men who Love Men
Description
Program
Conference Leadership
Pricing
Description
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Imagine a week of escape, discovery and community. Picture yourself at an oceanside retreat center with other Queer men who seek the same world you seek. Embrace joy, understanding and brotherhood.
Bring your curiosity. Bring your talents and passions. Bring your sense of adventure. This is GAYLA. Our Mission: Celebrating men loving men, inspiring individuals to be healthy, caring, spiritual & loving, and to share & nurture our gifts to the human experience.
Dance in a sunrise circle, sip coffee with new friends on a sun-drenched porch, play volleyball, swim, sing, make art, pick from a smorgasbord of daily workshops and evening fun, perform in the Talent/No Talent Show, walk the beach, read or just relax.
Read about the programs at GAYLA 46 in 2024 and GAYLA 45 in 2023. At GAYLA, we celebrate our journey as GBTQ men, honoring the unique gifts that announce us to the world as a vibrant force for good. Our history has taught us strength, resilience and how to come together as a creative source of inspiration for all humanity. We gather as self-identified men who love men. We are single and partnered, young and old, queer, trans, gay, bisexual and curious. We are men of many races, classes and gender identities, and embrace our ongoing exploration of how to become a more just and inclusive community. At GAYLA, we revel in the joy of being who we are without fear of condemnation or harassment. Join us and help create what community is meant to be. GAYLA is held at Ferry Beach, a welcoming retreat and conference center that is home to LGBTQ people all year long. Thirty minutes from both Ogunquit and Portland, Ferry Beach sits at the edge of a sandy beach and includes acres of woods. It’s a magical place to experience the coast of Maine. GAYLA is among the nation's longest-running retreats for men who love men. Join us as we celebrate our unique gifts, sexuality and place in the world as GBTQ men. You are already part of GAYLA’s vibrant fellowship. Our theme for this summer's conference is.... "Traveling Our Courageous Path." What to Expect:
Why Attend GAYLA? This week together at Ferry Beach is more than just a gathering; it's an opportunity to:
Join Us: Your voice, your story, and your authentic self are eagerly awaited. Whether you’re fully out, just exploring, or anywhere in between, you are welcome here. As we step into another exciting phase of our journey together, we're reaching out to the heart and soul of our community – yes, that's you! – to invite you to play a more active role in shaping our future. |
What Men are Saying about GAYLA
“Joy” – Julio Aponte, Retired Physician, Swimmer, Cleveland OH “Loving, new brothers and awesome amount of fun. A week long family reunion, but with brothers who show love for one another.” – Thomas Muise, Saco ME “Sublime. Loving.” – Bill Tregoning, Cleveland OH “A week in joyous, gay Brigadoon.” – Joe E’Leeno, Manchester NJ “It's where the forest hugs the shore, and men bathe in each other's kindness.” – Lawrence Ingalls, Los Angeles CA “A special caring place on the ocean to go and learn about yourself without a lot of everyday distractions.” – Gary Michael Callahan, Shopkeeper, Willoughby OH “What stunned me was joy. What a gift. And what an incredible resource Gayla is, giving us a place to grow and be and heal.” – Perry, Executive Coach/Spiritual Director, Boston MA Stay in Touch
Join GAYLA’s Facebook page to get to know us and receive updates on upcoming events. |
Program
Our theme for this summer's conference, July 12-19, 2025, will be....
"Traveling Our Courageous Path."
The recent election caused us to reflect on the myriad paths we've all traveled to be
where we are now, and the courage and tenacity it has taken for us to do that in a
society that vacillates between embracing and scorning us. We invite you, our beloved
siblings, to reflect on themes of traveling the path of life, being courageous and all-in-all
just being fabulous queer beings. Share your ideas for workshops, tracks, and
adventures that we can experience when we are together in July at our sacred space of
Ferry Beach. Reach out to your Coordinators - their contact information is at the bottom
of the page.
GAYLA 47 – July 12-19, 2025
For GAYLA 47, expect the usual highlights, plus some special activities (all activities are optional): (Tentative)
"Traveling Our Courageous Path."
The recent election caused us to reflect on the myriad paths we've all traveled to be
where we are now, and the courage and tenacity it has taken for us to do that in a
society that vacillates between embracing and scorning us. We invite you, our beloved
siblings, to reflect on themes of traveling the path of life, being courageous and all-in-all
just being fabulous queer beings. Share your ideas for workshops, tracks, and
adventures that we can experience when we are together in July at our sacred space of
Ferry Beach. Reach out to your Coordinators - their contact information is at the bottom
of the page.
GAYLA 47 – July 12-19, 2025
For GAYLA 47, expect the usual highlights, plus some special activities (all activities are optional): (Tentative)
- Saturday
- Welcome Reception and Newcomer Orientation
- Opening Ceremony – creating our sacred safe space
- Daily Activities Available:
- Sunrise Circle – moving to simple circle dances
- Polar Bear Swim – braving the cold
- Daily Chapel – inspiring our spirits with words and music
- Check In Circles (starting on Sunday) – deepening connections in small groups
- Beach Time
- Open 12 Step Meeting
- Social Hour
- Evening Friendship Circle on the Beach – feeling gratitude for the day
- Tea Dance
- Tracks (Mon/Tue/Thu/Fri mornings) and Workshops (Mon/Tue afternoons)
- Remembrance Service and Bonfire – honoring our brothers who have gone before
- Group Game Night – having a fun competition
- Free Day Wednesday (with Karaoke and table games that evening)
- Volleyball Tournament – playing and cheerleading vs. the Ferry Beach staff
- Talent/No Talent Show – showing off all those talents!
- GAYLA Town Hall and Closing Ceremony – finishing off our wonderful week together
2025 Minister of the Week for both GAYLA and ChoralFest:
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Reverend Dr. Scott Dillard
The Reverend Dr. Scott Dillard is recently retired from a career in higher education. He served throughout his career as a professor of communication and theatre. He most recently was Professor of Communication and chair of the Department of Communication at Georgia College and State University. The Rev. Dillard is an ordained interfaith minister and since his ordination he has filled Unitarian Universalist pulpits throughout the southeast. In recent years he has mainly preached on a rotating basis at Mountain Light UU Church in Ellijay, Ga. Scott has been with his husband Chris for thirty years. They reside in Milledgeville, GA and have a second home in Blue Ridge, GA. They have a daughter, Katrina who is married to Johnny Kim and three grandchildren. They also have a mini schnauzer named Sasha. In his retirement, he plans to follow his heart and his whims. One thing that he does have lined up is some work with the local Milledgeville arts alliance for whom he will host events and perform and direct reader's theatre productions. |
We Need Your Spark!
We believe that every individual holds a unique spark, a special skill that can light up our collective experience. This is your call to bring that spark to the forefront as we seek passionate individuals for the following roles:
Workshop and Track Leaders: Are you skilled in a particular area or have a hobby that excites you? Whether it's art, mindfulness, gardening, or technology, we need leaders to guide engaging and enriching workshops and tracks. Workshops are one time events in the afternoons, whereas Tracks take place 4 times during the week in the morning.
Frivs (Frivolity Committee): Our community thrives on the events, workshops, and gatherings that bring us together. The Frivs are the unsung heroes behind these events. This dedicated team does the essential work of staging and breaking down our meeting spaces, liaising with Ferry Beach Staff to solve problems and ensuring everything runs smoothly. By joining the Frivs, you become a pivotal part of our community's experiences, providing invaluable support to our coordinators and workshop leaders. There is compensation for this crucial role.
Check-in Circle Leaders: Compassion and empathy are key for our Check-in Circle Leaders. If you have a listening ear and a caring heart, why not guide our circles where members can share, connect, and support each other?
Why Volunteer?
Volunteering is not just about giving; it's a pathway to receiving. It’s about learning new skills, connecting with like-minded individuals, and experiencing the joy of making a real difference in our community. Plus, it’s a chance to let your talents shine and grow. GAYLA only works because of the generosity of its participants.
Ready to Step Forward?
If you feel a calling towards any of these roles, or know someone who would be a perfect fit, please don’t hesitate to reach out. Every effort, no matter how small, contributes significantly to the tapestry of our community. Let’s make magic together!
To express your interest or to get more information, simply reach out to Jeff Ingle. We can’t wait to embark on this exciting journey with you.
Keep Watching This Space!
We will keep updating information about the programs and schedule. To get a feel for what our week together is like, you can also read the programs for GAYLA 45 in 2023, GAYLA 44 in 2022 and GAYLA 43 in 2021. Remember, every activity at GAYLA is optional and consensual - do as much or as little as what you want, taking care of yourself and each other as we gather in our safe space.
We hope you are looking forward to our week together. And if this sounds like something you would enjoy and grow from, there is still time to register! A newcomer’s discount of $200 is available.
Helping Hands is GAYLA’s way of helping our brothers who may need some financial assistance. If you are interested in attending but may not be able to afford the full registration or lodging costs, please contact our Treasurer, Brian Dustin ([email protected]), or one of the Coordinators: Jeff Ingle ([email protected]), Troy Liston ([email protected]) or Dean Morris ([email protected]).
We believe that every individual holds a unique spark, a special skill that can light up our collective experience. This is your call to bring that spark to the forefront as we seek passionate individuals for the following roles:
Workshop and Track Leaders: Are you skilled in a particular area or have a hobby that excites you? Whether it's art, mindfulness, gardening, or technology, we need leaders to guide engaging and enriching workshops and tracks. Workshops are one time events in the afternoons, whereas Tracks take place 4 times during the week in the morning.
Frivs (Frivolity Committee): Our community thrives on the events, workshops, and gatherings that bring us together. The Frivs are the unsung heroes behind these events. This dedicated team does the essential work of staging and breaking down our meeting spaces, liaising with Ferry Beach Staff to solve problems and ensuring everything runs smoothly. By joining the Frivs, you become a pivotal part of our community's experiences, providing invaluable support to our coordinators and workshop leaders. There is compensation for this crucial role.
Check-in Circle Leaders: Compassion and empathy are key for our Check-in Circle Leaders. If you have a listening ear and a caring heart, why not guide our circles where members can share, connect, and support each other?
Why Volunteer?
Volunteering is not just about giving; it's a pathway to receiving. It’s about learning new skills, connecting with like-minded individuals, and experiencing the joy of making a real difference in our community. Plus, it’s a chance to let your talents shine and grow. GAYLA only works because of the generosity of its participants.
Ready to Step Forward?
If you feel a calling towards any of these roles, or know someone who would be a perfect fit, please don’t hesitate to reach out. Every effort, no matter how small, contributes significantly to the tapestry of our community. Let’s make magic together!
To express your interest or to get more information, simply reach out to Jeff Ingle. We can’t wait to embark on this exciting journey with you.
Keep Watching This Space!
We will keep updating information about the programs and schedule. To get a feel for what our week together is like, you can also read the programs for GAYLA 45 in 2023, GAYLA 44 in 2022 and GAYLA 43 in 2021. Remember, every activity at GAYLA is optional and consensual - do as much or as little as what you want, taking care of yourself and each other as we gather in our safe space.
We hope you are looking forward to our week together. And if this sounds like something you would enjoy and grow from, there is still time to register! A newcomer’s discount of $200 is available.
Helping Hands is GAYLA’s way of helping our brothers who may need some financial assistance. If you are interested in attending but may not be able to afford the full registration or lodging costs, please contact our Treasurer, Brian Dustin ([email protected]), or one of the Coordinators: Jeff Ingle ([email protected]), Troy Liston ([email protected]) or Dean Morris ([email protected]).
Conference Leadership
GAYLA is organized by its members, working in partnership with Ferry Beach Retreat & Conference Center. We thank our volunteer leaders for their vision, time and ongoing care of GAYLA.
Contact those serving in any of these roles by emailing: [email protected].
Contact those serving in any of these roles by emailing: [email protected].
GAYLA Coordinators
Coordinators plan the summer program. They make our week delightful, meaningful and well organized. Coordinators are elected to three-year terms at the GAYLA Town Meeting. For GAYLA 47 in 2025, your coordinators are Jeff Ingle ([email protected]), Troy Liston ([email protected]) and Dean Morris ([email protected]).
If you are interested in becoming a coordinator, talk to Jeff, Troy or Dean.
Learn more about being a GAYLA Coordinator
The GAYLA Planning Guide lists some of what Coordinators are responsible for accomplishing with the help of many volunteers.
If you are interested in becoming a coordinator, talk to Jeff, Troy or Dean.
Learn more about being a GAYLA Coordinator
The GAYLA Planning Guide lists some of what Coordinators are responsible for accomplishing with the help of many volunteers.
Council of Elders
The GAYLA Council of Elders offers wisdom of experience and love of GAYLA in support of the GAYLA Coordinators and our larger brotherhood. The Council tends to the long-term growth and vision of GAYLA, freeing the Coordinators to focus on organizing our amazing conference. Affectionately known as the Ferry God Mothers, the Council has 5 members who are appointed by the elected Coordinators.
The Council is guided by a charter
The current members of the Council of Elders are:
Doug Atkins, North Sutton, NH (2024-2029)
David Allen, Horseheads, NY (July 2023 - July 2028)
Mark Koenig, Maynard, MA (July 2022 - July 2027)
Kip Plaistad, Washington, DC (July 2021 - July 2026)
Ted Kerecz, Lorain, OH (July 2023 - July 2025)
Past members of the Council of Elders are:
David Herrin, Charleston, WV (July 2019-July 2024)
Chris DiGiorgio, Tuckahoe, NY (July 2018-July 2023)
Tom Konkoly, Oberlin, OH (July 2017-July 2022)
Ron King, Penobscot, ME (July 2016-July 2021)
Bill Mitchell, Lowell, Massachusetts (July 2015-July 2020)
Troy Liston, Maynard, MA (July 2014-July 2019)
Robert Walker, Ravenna, OH (July 2013-July 2018)
Bradley Cohen, Boston, MA (July 2013-July2017)
Tom Hughes, Westlake, MA (July 2013-July 2016)
David Sumner, Norton, MA (July 2013-July 2015)
Tom Lucas, Lowell, MA (July 2013-Jul 2014)
Roger White, Saco, ME (2016)
The Council is guided by a charter
The current members of the Council of Elders are:
Doug Atkins, North Sutton, NH (2024-2029)
David Allen, Horseheads, NY (July 2023 - July 2028)
Mark Koenig, Maynard, MA (July 2022 - July 2027)
Kip Plaistad, Washington, DC (July 2021 - July 2026)
Ted Kerecz, Lorain, OH (July 2023 - July 2025)
Past members of the Council of Elders are:
David Herrin, Charleston, WV (July 2019-July 2024)
Chris DiGiorgio, Tuckahoe, NY (July 2018-July 2023)
Tom Konkoly, Oberlin, OH (July 2017-July 2022)
Ron King, Penobscot, ME (July 2016-July 2021)
Bill Mitchell, Lowell, Massachusetts (July 2015-July 2020)
Troy Liston, Maynard, MA (July 2014-July 2019)
Robert Walker, Ravenna, OH (July 2013-July 2018)
Bradley Cohen, Boston, MA (July 2013-July2017)
Tom Hughes, Westlake, MA (July 2013-July 2016)
David Sumner, Norton, MA (July 2013-July 2015)
Tom Lucas, Lowell, MA (July 2013-Jul 2014)
Roger White, Saco, ME (2016)
Read about the Council of Elders’ accomplishments since it was established in 2013:
GAYLA Town Meeting
GAYLA holds its annual Town Meeting on the Friday of each year’s retreat. Please submit agenda items and written reports to one of the Coordinators by the day before the meeting.
GAYLA Covenant
GAYLA is guided by its covenant, which was first created by the coordinators of GAYLA XXII in 2000 to help guide their work on behalf of GAYLA.
Rise with us, we are GAYLA.
A circle of love, of men loving men.
Together we make this circle sacred.
Between us we make these promises;
With you we make this covenant:
I accept you without condition.
I will be truthful.
When you speak, I will listen so I may understand.
I will care for you. Help me to care for myself.
When I have something to say, I will say it.
When I have tears or fears or laughter, I will share it.
I will hold and shape our community’s vision.
If I betray our covenant, help me.
If I betray myself, accept me,
and love me without condition.
Living our conscience is our goal.
Be with us, we are GAYLA.
A sacred circle; a circle of love, of men loving men.
Enough love to hold us all.
To get a feel for what our week together is like, you can also read the programs for GAYLA 45 in 2023, GAYLA 44 in 2022 and GAYLA 43 in 2021.
We hope you are looking forward to our week together. And if this sounds like something you would enjoy and grow from, please register! A newcomer’s discount of $200 is available.
Helping Hands is GAYLA’s way of helping our brothers who may need some financial assistance. If you are interested in attending but may not be able to afford the full registration or lodging costs, please contact our Treasurer, Brian Dustin ([email protected]), or one of the Coordinators: Rick Smith ([email protected]), Jeff Ingle ([email protected]), or Troy Liston ([email protected]).
Rise with us, we are GAYLA.
A circle of love, of men loving men.
Together we make this circle sacred.
Between us we make these promises;
With you we make this covenant:
I accept you without condition.
I will be truthful.
When you speak, I will listen so I may understand.
I will care for you. Help me to care for myself.
When I have something to say, I will say it.
When I have tears or fears or laughter, I will share it.
I will hold and shape our community’s vision.
If I betray our covenant, help me.
If I betray myself, accept me,
and love me without condition.
Living our conscience is our goal.
Be with us, we are GAYLA.
A sacred circle; a circle of love, of men loving men.
Enough love to hold us all.
To get a feel for what our week together is like, you can also read the programs for GAYLA 45 in 2023, GAYLA 44 in 2022 and GAYLA 43 in 2021.
We hope you are looking forward to our week together. And if this sounds like something you would enjoy and grow from, please register! A newcomer’s discount of $200 is available.
Helping Hands is GAYLA’s way of helping our brothers who may need some financial assistance. If you are interested in attending but may not be able to afford the full registration or lodging costs, please contact our Treasurer, Brian Dustin ([email protected]), or one of the Coordinators: Rick Smith ([email protected]), Jeff Ingle ([email protected]), or Troy Liston ([email protected]).
GAYLA 47 - July 12-19, 2025 Information
We will have more information about the programs and schedule posting soon. To get a feel for what our week together is like, you can also read the programs for GAYLA 46 in 2024, GAYLA 45 in 2023, GAYLA 44 in 2022 and GAYLA 43 in 2021. Remember, every activity at GAYLA is optional and consensual - do as much or as little as what you want, taking care of yourself and each other as we gather in our safe space.
We hope you are looking forward to our week together. And if this sounds like something you would enjoy and grow from, there is still time to register! A newcomer’s discount of $200 is available.
Helping Hands is GAYLA’s way of helping our brothers who may need some financial assistance. If you are interested in attending but may not be able to afford the full registration or lodging costs, please contact our Treasurer, Brian Dustin ([email protected]), or one of the Coordinators: Jeff Ingle ([email protected]), Troy Liston ([email protected]) or Dean Morris ([email protected]).
We hope you are looking forward to our week together. And if this sounds like something you would enjoy and grow from, there is still time to register! A newcomer’s discount of $200 is available.
Helping Hands is GAYLA’s way of helping our brothers who may need some financial assistance. If you are interested in attending but may not be able to afford the full registration or lodging costs, please contact our Treasurer, Brian Dustin ([email protected]), or one of the Coordinators: Jeff Ingle ([email protected]), Troy Liston ([email protected]) or Dean Morris ([email protected]).
Pricing
Conference Package (Pricing per Person) |
Conference Package for Lodgers: Adult: $637 (Includes Conference Fees + Daily Meals) Conference Package for Commuters: Adult (Commuter): $539 Adult (Includes Conference Fee + Lunch & Dinner) Call registration for a $200 newcomer discount. Meals are included, there is no way to separate meals from the package price. Note: Lodging is not included in the conference package price, it's added on, the price varies depending on your desired lodging accommodation, see below. |
Lodging |
Lodging Prices Vary Base on Selection. See our Lodging Page for pricing information. |
Membership |
Membership must be paid to attend any Ferry Beach program and is due annually. Individual Membership: $40 Family Membership: $65 See our Membership Page to learn more and to purchase or renew a membership. You can also renew your membership on your reservation. |
Register |
To register online click here, or call the office at 207-282-4489. You can also email [email protected]. |
Our mission at Ferry Beach is to awaken hearts to explore, grow and renew the spirit of universal love.
We work by creating programing and events in the areas of Arts & Culture, Education, Spirituality, Sustainability, Personal Growth and Justice & Action.
We work by creating programing and events in the areas of Arts & Culture, Education, Spirituality, Sustainability, Personal Growth and Justice & Action.
