|
Q.
How did the YMCA start?
In 1844, at the height of the Industrial Revolution when many migrants
into London were homeless, jobless and poor, a young draper's clerk called
George Williams shared with some close friends his burning desire to do
something for God. His vision to provide shelter, food and Bible study
helped thousands. This spark of compassion ignited a movement that has
spread worldwide. More than 150 years later, the YMCA has grown to become
one of the largest international youth organisations with over 30 million
members represented in more than 120 countries.
Q.
What is the mission of the YMCA?
The mission of the YMCA was declared at the first international convention
in Paris in 1855 as the Paris Basis:
The purpose of the Metropolitan Young Men's Christian Association is to
unite persons who, regarding Jesus Christ as their God and Saviour according
to the Holy Scriptures, desire to be His disciples in their doctrine and
their life, and to associate their efforts for the extension of His Kingdom...
Q.
How come there are two YMCAs in Singapore?
Dr Chen Su Lan, a medical doctor with a passion for charity and philanthropy,
mooted the idea for a Chinese YMCA. In the chaotic aftermath of World
War II and the Japanese occupation, at a time of spiraling unemployment,
prostitution and organized crime, it was critical to have a YMCA to provide
wholesome recreation for Chinese-speaking youths forming the majority
population in Singapore. The Chinese YMCA was thus formed in 1946 with
its first headquarters at Selegie Road, to complement the work of the
"European YMCA" at Orchard Road set up by the British in 1902.
In March 1974, the Chinese YMCA changed its name to Metropolitan YMCA
Singapore in line with national and international commitments to offer
service to all communities with an inter-racial and non-sectarian outlook.
Q.
What is the significance of the YMCA logo?
The
YMCA symbol is more than an emblem. It is a graphic representation of
our religious and
educational philosophy andreveals the essential unity of the Christian
view of life.
The
YMCA symbol
|
1.
The outer circle is for completeness and unity of life.
2. The inner circle is a symbolism of love without end among individuals.
3. The Greek letters (X "chi" & P "rho") are the first two letters
of the word for Christ and are themselves the emblem
of early Christianity.
4. The large triangle stands for the trinity within the Godhead;
that of the Father, Son and Holy Spirit.
5. The second triangle stands for the trinity within men - that
of the spirit, mind and body.
6. In the centre is the Scripture of Christ's intercessory prayer
recorded in John 17:21- "That they all may be one; as thou,
Father, art in me, and I in thee, that they also may be one
in us; that the world may believe that thou hast sent me."
|
| |
The
two other symbols are also in use. The red triangle with the letters
"YMCA" across it, and the other, the letter "Y." All three symbols
though different have one common feature. They all display the red
triangle.
|
Q.
Is Metropolitan YMCA membership only for Christians?
Our programmes are open to everyone regardless of race, sex, religion
or social background. Baptized Christians are allowed to vote and hold
office as full members.
Q.
What does the Metropolitan YMCA offer?
As a voluntary non-profit Christian organization dedicated to community
service, the Metropolitan YMCA provides opportunities for personal growth
in spirit, mind and body, and offers avenues for character development,
volunteerism and service to others.
|
