 Why
is this a Men's (Only) Gathering?
For years we have
designed a gathering that creates a men's space. We intentionally
define ourselves by including and planning for a large gathering
of men. Men are expected to respond to each other differently in
a male-only space. At the gathering, men can be frank and free about
their feelings, their sexuality, and their personal boundaries.
The gathering provides a safe, supportive place for men to grow.
The male-only character of the gathering encourages bonding and
intimacy between men.
What
kind of facilities does the site have?
The facilities at the Hermitage are great for a camping weekend.
The gathering site has a kitchen, a number of indoor accomodations
and a couple of portable toilets. The camping areas are wooded and
some have sweeping views of the valley. If you don't think you're
quite equipped for a camping weekend, contact us. We can always
make some arrangements for folks to bring an extra tent or sleeping
bag. There are a few available beds in some of the cottages and
main buildings. These are reserved on a first come, first serve
basis (get those registrations in soon!)
 How
should I prepare for The Men's Gathering?
The Men's Gathering is a camping weekend. The latter part of May
can be rainy, the evenings can be cool. Autumn tends to be less
rainy, but evenings can be very cool indeed. Be prepared with some
rain gear and layers of clothing. You should bring a tent, tarp,
sleeping bag, mattress, flashlight, towels, insect repellent, sunscreen--basically
all of the stuff that you need for a camping trip. Tip: dryer lint
makes great firestarter; save up in a plastic resealable bag.
Why
doesn't the site have any trash receptacles?
The Hermitage and The Mid-Atlantic Men's Gathering take the responsibility
for leaving Mother Earth as clean after the gathering as when we
arrived. WHATEVER YOU BRING ONTO THE SITE,
YOU MUST TAKE OUT. In other words, leave a very light
footprint on this beautiful land.
What
kind of food is at the gathering?
The Men's Gathering wants to accommodate as many tastes as it can.
The kitchen prepares vegetarian meals that are wonderfully inventive
and delicious. Vegan meals can also be prepared. The kitchen will
try to accommodate special dietary needs. If you have special needs,
please indicate them when you send in your registration form. The
Hermitage prepares bread and delicious baked goods (pies, cookies,
and cakes) in their woodfired ovens the day of the gathering. Sourdough
breads abound and other lovely confections.
Where
do I park my vehicle?
When you arrive at the site, you need to drive your vehicle down
to your campsite, unload your equipment, then park your vehicle
in the designated parking area, which is outside the gathering site.
Cheerful hosts will help you find your way to and from the  parking
area.
What
is a ritual?
Rituals are ceremonies or behaviors that help us gather together
-- to get comfortable in this weekend place, to leave our city baggage
behind and move to safely explore mysteries of the heart, mind,
and world about us. The Men's Gathering incorporates rituals into
its circles to set the weekend apart from the everyday world we
have all left behind. While our rituals are spiritual experiences,
The Men's Gathering does not subscribe to any particular religious
creed or practice. While your participation in circles is encouraged,
the decision always remains yours.
What
are circles?
Every morning begins with a circle around the fire. The circle is
a time for welcome, community announcements, celebration, and ritual.
All men at the gathering are urged to attend the circles.
What
are "hosts"?
Hosts are cheerful helpers who meet and greet you on Friday to help
you get your campsite set up. The hosts usually put on the fabulous
Friday Night Mixer. You can tell that a host is a host because of
the funny thingie that he is wearing.
Why
do some of the guys
wear such funny clothes?
The short answer about why some of the guys wear such funny clothes
is because they have such fabulous fashion sense. The gathering
is a place to push the boundaries, to try new stuff. In the workday
world, men wearing women's clothing is taboo; at the gathering it's
considered chic in some circles. The important thing is to just
have fun.
How
do I apply for a scholarship?
Please contact
us and request a scholarship. This year's scholarships, funded
by our auction, can defray up to half of the cost of the weekend.
 Is
the gathering
clothing optional?
The gathering is partially clothing optional because often the weather
is sunny, and you can tan without a line. Some men have said that
they were always ashamed of their bodies, until they came to the
Gathering and took off their clothes. Taking off your clothes removes
you from your ordinary world. At the gathering, you are in a different
place. Be aware that certain areas are clothing optional while
other more exposed areas are not. This will be designated at the
opening circle.
How
many men come to the gathering, and where do the come from?
We expect a gathering of nearly one hundred men in the Spring and
thirty to forty in the Fall. Participants come mainly from DC, MD,
VA, NY, and PA, although some have come from as far away
as Finland. The Men's Gathering is the closest queer friendly Men's
Gatherings in the region. How far  is
it from you? Let's see.
What
NOT to bring to
The Men's Gathering?
Please do not bring
heartfelt Misogyny, Mysandrogyny, Racism, Sexism, Ageism, Lookism,
or Homophobia with you to this gathering. We are serious about our
commitment to create a positive men's space. The coordinators will
not tolerate open or angry outbursts based on hurt and hate. Of
course none of us are perfect and the gathering is the perfect place
to work on these issues at a deeper level.
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