YMCA (Young Men's Christian Association)

The YMCA, which originated in regular prayer and bible study meetings of young male shop workers, was established in 1844. George Williams, a draper's assistant, is acknowledged as its principal founder, and from very small beginnings the association quickly expanded with other branches opening both in London and elsewhere. Branches in Manchester and Leeds began in 1845, and by 1855 there were 40 local YMCAs outside London.

Although established as a non-denominational evangelical Christian movement, it soon began educational work and provided valuable opportunities for social and physical activities for its membership. For example, a series of very successful lectures was initiated in London in 1845 (held in Exeter Hall in the Strand, an important venue for meetings and concerts, from 1847), and local associations began libraries and introduced evening classes. In 1881, the London YMCA acquired Exeter Hall. These premises were used, from 1882, by the National Council of YMCAs, which was formed in that year to coordinate the work of all the local associations in England, Wales and Ireland. The YMCA organisation also rapidly expanded abroad, and in 1855 the first world conference of YMCAs was held in Paris where representatives of eight countries from Europe and North America met and the World Alliance of YMCAs was constituted. In the last 20 years of the nineteenth century, associations were set up in Africa, Asia and South America. The World Alliance now represents more than 100 countries and, while maintaining its Christian outlook, is particularly concerned with world development issues and with peace, justice and equality.

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