At
the heart of YMCAs across the world is a strong Christian ethos
which is reflected in a genuine motivation to serve others and to
share the love and care shown by Jesus in His life here on earth.
This ethos is enshrined in the work of YMCA through the universal
symbol of the red triangle which commits us to work to provide physical,
mental and spiritual elements to our programmes.
Whilst
a strong statement of our basis of faith is echoed by those at the
core of the organisation, this ethos also warmly welcomes those
of other faiths and of none to participate in YMCA programmes. The
acceptance of others and the love shown to those who opposed or
disagreed with Jesus serves as an example to YMCA as we welcome
without judgment those who are hurting or who feel isolated.
YMCA
often serves a role as part of God’s worldwide church,
yet operating in a ‘place’ outside of church walls.
In fact YMCA can often be described as a, “church without
walls”. Working within a local community and serving the
foremost needs of those who come into our YMCAs often builds
a relationship and a curiosity as to the motivation of the staff
and volunteers involved in the organisation.
YMCAs
in Scotland have also built many examples of good working relations
with local churches in their area. Without any denominational boundary
the organisation is able to bring Christians together to serve others
as volunteers, to pray for the work of the YMCA and for those in
need in their area and to recognise the depths of blessing which
come to those Christians who work and pray together.
Church partnership Project
YMCA is more than just a family! It's a fellowship of thousands of different people, many of whom will disagree with the theology of others yet who enjoy the unity of spirit and the spiritual blessing which is evident through working with YMCA.
YMCA in Scotland does not impose a threatening agenda of Christianity yet nor does it avoid the subject. From the personal experience of so many and the foundation of strong moral and Christian values, YMCA works with young people to best serve their physical, mental and spiritual needs.
These three elements as represented by the YMCA’s internationally recognised symbol of the red triangle, are evident through the work of all local associations. YMCA Scotland firmly believes that the Christian ethos of the organisation is a strength to be celebrated rather than a barrier to our youth work.
YMCA provides a unique place for Christians in society to come alongside young people at risk, to love them as Jesus loved others and to meet them at their point of need. In so doing YMCA has an exciting opportunity to share our Christian faith, to reach those the church may never reach and to show something of the love of Jesus to a hurting world.
As YMCAs continue to play an active role as part of God's church in sharing Christ's unconditional love with unchurched young people please pray for the many YMCA volunteers and youth workers across Scotland. Please pray for the ongoing discussions with the Church of Scotland as we seek to develop a closer working partnership serving local communities. Please pray as we progress through 2007 that God will guide the development and role of the YMCA movement in Scotland to better serve Him and to more effectively reflect the values and the message of Jesus to young people today.