join an empowerment conference this October.

Bermuda Gathering of Men 2000 is an intergenerational, interracial conference for men of all ages and all nationalities that organisers hope will spark support groups for men throughout Bermuda.

The conference is an offshoot of a US movement called Men on the Move -- "a spirit-based campaign designed to build health and wholesome families by assisting men in developing their minds, bodies and spirits.'' said: "Men have always tried to stand alone. Our society has always taught us that men don't cry. We've been taught that men don't show their feelings.

"This is an opportunity for men to take off those masks and get together.'' Conference secretary Brenton Roberts said: "We feel this conference is timely in light of recent issues with Bermuda's male population and that it will benefit the whole community.'' Organisers stressed the conference is for men only, as they feel that there are already existing support organisations for women to turn to for help.

Childwatch, an action group for fathers that sprang from the Fathers Resource Centre, will take part in the Conference. The conference will feature three overseas speakers: Adeyemi Bandele, Reverend Cochise Brown and Dr. Akmal Muwwakkil. Attending men will receive a journal called "The Book of Life'' to keep an ongoing record of their feelings. There are 425 spaces available for men who wish to join up. Tickets are $50 for adults and $75 total for a teenager accompanied by an adult. For more information, contact 295-3723 or 238-0262.