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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.

 

Church.co.uk

The one-stop shop for exploring Christian faith

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.

 

 

 

 

 

Date Last Modified: 14th January 2008

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