Find your retreat
Find your retreat
For many of us who grew up in Christian communities, discovering our sexuality was not easy. The messages we received from churches, families, and schools often created confusion, conflict, and shame.
Jesus often invited his disciples to go up to a mountain to pray with him. On one occasion, he took three of his closest disciples to the top of Mount Tabor (see Matthew 17:1–9). Peter told Jesus that it was good to be on the mountain with him. This retreat invites gay and queer Christian men to Come to the Mountain — to experience Jesus in a multi-generational community for reflection.
Over time, things have begun to change. Some younger people who identify as queer have found more welcoming and affirming Christian communities. Still, the process of integrating faith, identity, and community remains deeply personal and sometimes challenging. The experience of gay and queer Christian men varies widely — the journey of a gay Catholic differs from that of an Episcopalian or a Southern Baptist. This retreat welcomes people from many Christian backgrounds as we create space to share and reflect on those experiences.
Together we will explore our spiritual journeys, share stories, and create space for prayer, liturgy, conversation, and meaningful connection.
Food, lodging, and all activities and workshops are included!
Multi-generational community — gathering across generations to share stories of faith, identity, and the long work of integration
Prayer, liturgy, and worship — morning prayer, evening prayer, night prayer, and a closing liturgy woven through the rhythm of the week
Fire of Forgiveness Ritual — a meaningful evening ritual creating space for release and renewal
Be a Monk Day — a full day of contemplation, silence, Taizé prayer, and community service
Sacred Hands, Sacred Touch — a non-sexual massage workshop exploring the body as a site of healing and sacred presence
Outdoor walks and the land — labyrinth walks, campus tours, and time on 100 acres of Hudson Valley hillside
Song, art, and celebration — singing workshops, a Transfiguration Celebration, and shared creative expression
Sauna, shared meals, evening gatherings, and the particular warmth of a small retreat community
"From this hilltop the light of our gifts could shine for all the world to see and we could spawn a revolution of love."
John Stasio, FounderDetails still to be announced
Arts and crafts on the deck with Freddy.
Freddy, a.k.a. Goldenheart, first came to Easton Mountain to facilitate Easton's first Bear weekend in Jan of 2012 and has been a full time resident, along with his husband Jay…
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John's vision for social justice, interfaith spirituality and the potential of a spiritual community of gay men began at a young age and motivated him to begin Easton Mountain. In…
Read more → Freddy, a.k.a. Goldenheart, first came to Easton Mountain to facilitate Easton's first Bear weekend in Jan of 2012 and has…
Read more →
Harry Faddis, D.D., CPCC, has been a member of the Easton Mountain Community since its founding in 2000 and he…
Read more →Come to the Mountain is designed specifically for gay and queer men with a Christian background or identity. Whether you are actively practicing, questioning, or somewhere in between — including men who have stepped away from the church but still carry a relationship with Christianity — you are welcome. The retreat doesn't require any particular doctrinal stance, only a genuine interest in exploring faith and identity in community.
All Christian backgrounds are welcome — Catholic, Episcopal, Baptist, Methodist, Lutheran, Evangelical, non-denominational, and everything in between. The retreat creates space for the varied experiences of gay and queer Christian men across traditions, rather than representing any single denomination or theological perspective.
Easton Mountain provides bedding, pillows, sheets, and towels. You will need to bring personal toiletries (soap, shampoo, toothpaste, etc.), shower shoes if desired, a flashlight or lantern for late-night walking, and comfortable shoes for walking the trails. We have a limited supply of sunscreen, bug repellant, and rain gear — you may want to bring your own. A journal is encouraged.
Early June at Easton brings warm days and cool evenings, so bring layers. Comfortable walking shoes are essential for the trails. For Be a Monk Day, simple, comfortable clothing is appropriate. Bring something you don't mind getting a little dirty for outdoor activities and walks in the woods.
Do not bring illegal drugs, weapons, firearms, or pets to Easton Mountain.
Our events de-emphasize alcohol and other legal substances. Some events may include a reception where limited alcohol is available. We provide space for 12-step meetings throughout the retreat. Illegal substances are not tolerated.