The Christmas Tree Team

The Christmas tree recently went up at YMCA Scotlands offices in Edinburgh. Margaret, Jillian and Jeanette poured their best time and attention in to lovingly creating a fine example of Christmas tree presentation which turned out brilliantly, as you can see! Listening to them outside my office door I was struck by how much fun they were having and how much effort they were putting in to the whole process.

Reflecting on our Christmas tree it struck me that what they did in the Christmas tree exercise kind of captured a lot of what happens in YMCAs all over Scotland all the time. People put a huge amount of time and effort in to creating something special with young people, their families and their wider communities.

I recently started work as the Development Manager for Christian Mission at YMCA Scotland. I have already enjoyed visiting quite a few YMCAs and will be round to see you all over the next few months. A large part of my role is working with you in your local YMCA to focus more time and attention on your Christian Mission. In particular I would like to see how we can engage more with the churches in your area so if you have any ideas, questions or suggestions please don't hesitate to contact me via the national office in Edinburgh. (0131 228 1464; 07703 189 305; ian@ymcascotland.org)

Like the Bethlehem skyline our Christmas tree is topped has a star reminding us that Jesus is invovled in the real world with all it's questions and messiness. I am looking forward to working with you all to be that kind of star in the work we do across Scotland. The Christmas tree team worked hard but had great fun along the way and they produced something special - I'm sure we will too.