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 122 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.
 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." |
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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.
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