Christian Foundation and Movement Relevancy
The Psalms: A Wellspring for a Sustainable Planet - Biblical Reflection on a Sustainable Planet
APAY General Assembly, 15 – 20 September 2023
Chennai, India
Biblical Reflection on a Sustainable Planet
The Psalms: A Wellspring for a Sustainable Planet
Reflection by: Dr. Bartholomew Shaha
First Reading: Genesis 1: 1-5; 9-12 and 26-29. (Please use the New Revised Standard Version –NRSV Bible, as you will find therein “humankind” instead of “man”).
Recitation of Psalm 104: 1-6; and 10-14.
Second Reading: Matthew 11: 28-30.
Reflection
Greetings and good wishes to all of you participating at this General Assembly of the Asia and Pacific Alliance of YMCAs.
The Creation story in the book of Genesis of the Holy Bible is so mind-captivating! From my childhood, every time I read or heard it, my imagination soared. It is such a wonderful and poetic description of how everything we see around us and above us, came into being. Of course, during my College years, as I pursued studies in Physics and Biology, and came across the Theory of Evolution, I became more sensitive and conscious of our deep connection with Nature, and our place in this ever-expanding Universe. I realized more and more that the Biblical story of Creation is meant to tell us how much God loves us and cares for us by giving us this beautiful Planet Earth, an ideal home for us to pursue our journey towards eternal life.
You must have noted in the Creation story an often repeated text that follows immediately after the creation of humankind in God’s image and likeness: “Be fruitful and multiply, and fill the earth and subdue it; and have dominion over the fish of the sea and over the birds of the air and over every living thing that moves upon the earth.” (Gen 1: 28) And, you must have already thought about how often this text was incorrectly interpreted as human beings having the absolute power over nature to dominate and exploit it. Not only that, human history is full of stories of how one group or people systematically exploited and oppressed other peoples, dehumanizing them and taking away their dignity. Such people forget that we human beings were given this beautiful Planet Earth to take care of it, to nurture it and to grow in ‘the fullness of life’ by maintaining a wholesome relationship with our Creator God, with nature and with other people.
The consequences of human greed, selfishness and unbridled exploitation of nature and marginalisation of people have resulted in a world where we are experiencing new threats to human life in myriads of ways! Look at the unprecedented temperature rise and extreme heat waves that are making life unbearable and claiming more and more lives! According to reports, the month of July this year (2023) was the hottest month ever recorded on Planet Earth! Again, look at the frequent floods, cyclones and tornadoes that are causing so much havoc all over the world. There are ample reliable scientific reports indicating that these global environmental changes have been largely induced by human beings.
It is encouraging to see the increasing awareness of people on the real causes of climate change today. But this was not so two or three decades ago. Because, in 1995 when the World Alliance of YMCAs, under the leadership of John W. Casey as Secretary General, organized its first Global Workshop on Environment and Development, there were many skeptics who were quite negative about what were discussed and concluded thereat. They could not read the signs of the times related to environmental destruction. What is so important to note is that already at that time, the YMCA had connected the Environmental crisis with the impoverisation of vast masses of people. The Report of that ground-breaking programme, which I had the privilege of editing as an Executive Secretary of the World Alliance at that time, was titled: “Creating Just and Ecologically Sustainable Communities.” The opening words of the Theme Song I had composed for that event went like this: “This world is full of wonders, this world is full of joy/ we are its only care-takers, shall we let it be destroyed?”
The work-plan which was adopted at that Workshop was instrumental in raising awareness on Environmental issues in the YMCA family world-wide. As a result, many YMCAs took up bold action steps leading to massive integrated projects to combat climate change. Twenty years later, in 2015, with the publication of Laudato Si’ of Pope Francis, the world has received a profoundly refreshing and immensely articulate Encyclical, highlighting the need to work on “Integral Creation” which includes working for a just society as well as working on issues of the environment by establishing a close relationship with God, with society and with nature.
What inspires the YMCA to be focused on grave concerns affecting humanity as they emerge? I believe, it is its deep involvement at the grass-roots level and its constant efforts in reflection and action on what it means to follow Jesus Christ in the particular context of the times. In this regard, I think that the adoption of “Challenge 21” in 1998, as an interpretation of YMCA Mission (Paris Basis) for the 21st Century, is a huge achievement and a great inspiration for the Movement to pursue new tasks. Because, in it we have a clear expression of our identity and mission for the 21st Century, as it says: “…at the threshold of the third millennium, we declare that the YMCA is a world-wide Christian, ecumenical, voluntary movement for women and men with special emphasis on and the genuine involvement of young people and that it seeks to share the Christian ideal of building a human community of justice with love, peace and reconciliation for the fullness of life for all creation.” Amongst several action steps, the one relating to climate change states: “Defending God’s creation against all that would destroy it and preserving and protecting the earth’s resources for coming generations.”
Here, it is important to recognise the reassertion of the YMCA as a “world-wide Christian, Ecumenical” Movement. Because, amidst the increasing global trends towards Secularism and a meaningless Consumeristic Life-style, the YMCA indeed can play a unique role in enabling young people and communities to find meaning in life by exploring what it means to be ‘Christian’ and ‘Ecumenical’ today, based on one’s own culture and contemporary theological thinking. By organizing new methods of Bible Study on specific themes, the YMCA could easily offer young people a very rich and unique experience. We must never forget that Sir George Williams, founder of the first YMCA in London in 1844, had started the YMCA Movement by gathering young people of different Christian denominations for Bible Study and then responded to young people’s needs in the context of the Industrial Revolution of that time. They sought to follow the teachings of Jesus Christ as we find in the Gospels. They surely believed that in Him they “will find rest” as written in the Gospel of Matthew, “Come to me all you that are weary and are carrying heavy burdens, and I will give you rest.” (Matthew 11: 28). But sadly, today many YMCAs have forgotten about such an important programme.
In the current situation of our world today, where many young people are increasingly becoming disoriented by the deepening contradictions in society, the on-going wars, the painful effects of the global Coronavirus Pandemic, the severe economic woes; and are suffering severely from anxiety and depression and becoming easy prey to life-threatening drugs and other substance abuse, such a programme could lead young people towards a genuine discovery of their own identities and equip them in meeting the challenges of the times.
In this regard, I wish to recall that since 1982, when the Asia YMCA Advanced Studies Curriculum was first articulated and organised with a focus on contextual Theology, this Region has gathered tremendous experiences and resources in the search for a Spirituality of Solidarity and the pursuance of Christian identity amidst religious plurality. I still recall the meeting of the then Asia Alliance of YMCAs together with the World Alliance of YMCAs on “Witness in a Multi-Religious Context” held in Chiangmai, Thailand, in 1986, wherein it was stated:
“We recognized that the YMCA should identify itself as an instrument of God entrusted with the mission of working towards the Kingdom of God in solidarity with people of all faiths. Common social issues and concerns and common religious concepts and values can become a means of attaining solidarity in working towards justice and peace….
We affirm, however, that our mission is not based totally on a humanistic foundation, but on our Christian faith as expressed in the Paris Basis. This identity must be recognized and maintained always.” (See Report, page 12).
With regard to Bible Study, I believe the Psalms of the Bible is a great resource and a well-spring for inspiring commitment towards work on a Sustainable Planet. Because, so many Psalms talk about the earth, its plants and living creatures and about the entire universe. In a poetic language they show us the importance of being in harmony with nature, and they repeatedly remind us to work for justice amidst the severe oppressions and injustices that we experience daily in our societies. Very few people realize that out of the 150 Psalms in the Bible, as many as 89 of them have been categorised as Psalms of Liberation! (Marc Girard, The Psalms: Mirror of the Poor, Mediaspaul, Montreal, 1996, p.38).
It was during my work at the World Alliance of YMCAs as Secretary General (2003-2010) that I discovered the Psalms in a new light and derived much sustenance from them. As I traveled from country to country visiting YMCA social development projects, as I visited communities in cities and distant villages and saw first-hand the plight of the marginalised people, as I met world leaders and religious leaders and exchanged views, as I tried to resolve organisational problems and issues in different localities for maintaining unity in the movement, I found the Psalms a great source of strength and hope. The more I delved into the text of the Psalms, the more I noticed that they were saying in a wonderful way, what I had long desired to express. I could see that the issues of justice and peace that I try to focus on in my writings, speeches and deliberations; the consciousness I strive to awaken amidst the environmental damage and disappearance of various forms and species of life due to human made disasters, are all so directly or indirectly referred to and sharply articulated in the Psalms themselves! Gradually, as I focused and meditated on a particular Psalm, certain verses stood out and began to form poetic verses in Bengali in my mind. Often a melody too came along spontaneously with the words. Thus, began a new journey with the Psalms.
However, I could not advance much in this adventure due to my extremely busy work-schedules then. And so, I decided to make it a priority during my retired life. I am glad to share with you now that all the 150 Psalm songs have been published in three volumes under the title “Amar Praner Psalmgeet” (Psalm Songs of My Soul), by Pratibeshi Prakashoni, Dhaka, with an inspiring Message from His Eminence, Cardinal Patrick D’Rozario csc, in each of the volumes. These Psalm songs are being sung not only in many Churches in Bangladesh during Liturgies, but also in various cultural programmes and other social events.
Let us take a look at the words of a couple of Psalmgeets, to see how they refer to the issues of “Integral Creation.” For example, an excerpt from Psalmgeet 104, which reminds us of the creation story, goes like this:
“You constantly keep renewing this earth.
Let your majesty and splendour be manifested
forever, O Lord…
The world is content with the fruits of your mighty works.
New vegetation sprout because of your blessings and kindness.
The food and grains we receive in abundance are all your gifts
We praise you, O radiant Lord!”
Or take for example a portion of Psalmgeet 33, which talks about the importance of ‘just rule’ in society, and about God who is happy to see us doing justice:
“Give glory to God, you who are faithful
Together praise the Lord on this day.
With new songs praise the Lord
With a new heart give glory to the Lord.
The words of the Lord are based on justice and truth
Forever he is faithful.
He is pleased in just rule
He is happy to see us doing justice.”
Knowing that many YMCAs have Choirs and Musical Groups, I have no doubts that these YMCAs could easily engage in creating new songs based on the Psalms in their own local and national languages. And, these Psalm songs could be used in Prayer and Worship, in Cultural Programmes and in Leadership Development and other consciousness raising programmes on various issues, including that of a Sustainable Planet. I therefore encourage YMCA writers, poets and musicians to come forward and take this idea as a new Project within their respective countries.
Thank you!
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Dr. Bartholomew Shaha was unable to attend the 21st General Assembly of the Asia & Pacific Alliance of YMCAs in Chennai in person. However, he shared the Biblical reflection during the GA via a pre-recorded video.
Building Communities of Faith, Hope, and Love - Biblico-Theological Reflections
Building Communities of Faith, Hope, and Love
Scripture text: 1 Cor 13:13
Rev. Dr. AHN Jae Woong
Chair, Board of Trustees
National Council of YMCAs of Korea
Let me take this opportunity to express my sincere thanks to Dr. Chen Chin-Seng, President and Nam Boo Won, General Secretary of the Asia and Pacific Alliance of YMCAs, for inviting me to share with you a biblical reflection on the theme of “Building Communities of Faith, Hope, and Love” at this August gathering of the APAY. I consider this as a great privilege to meet you all, and I hope that your active participation, lively discussion, solid articulation, favourable election, and valuable decisions that you will take would eventually bear good fruit through this assembly.
Personal Remarks
I personally have a great admiration for India as a nation, especially its people, cultures, religions, philosophy, democracy, science and technology. Indian civilization has influenced the entire global community. Indian religions have become major world religions. Indian philosophy is classical theory for academic comments. Above all, Indian people such as Mahatma Gandhi, Rabindranath Tagore, Jawaharlal Nehru, Bhimrao Ramji Ambedkar and scores of others as well as many more eminent ecumenical leaders, whose names will make a long list, have been highly respected and adored by international community. Today, I am so glad to be in fellowship with you here in Chennai, India.
What is happening so far
We are experiencing severe human tragedies due to natural and human-made disasters that have taken so many places in our day-to-day lives. At the same time, we are facing many other barriers in our daily lives, such as racial and communal barriers, ideological and socio-political barriers, religio-cultural and gender barriers, war and military oppressive barriers that disturb our lives. Therefore, we have to find some ways and means how we can break these barriers, bearing in mind that transforming lives should be our utmost task through building communities of faith, hope, love, and peace at this juncture of history.
Andre Gide, once said that “God is available to us twenty-four hours a day.” It is true that God is not only available to us, but also in our midst at every moment of our lives. However, our problem is that we have no capacity for knowing God or loving God properly. We have no capacity for sharing God’s love with our neighbours. We have no capacity for demonstrating God’s care for other fellow creatures. Instead, we have a tendency to use violence in order to exploit other creatures by manipulating, by modifying, and by demolishing them. As a result, we are now facing so many negative problems in our daily lives.
Cultivate a culture of peace
We -the human race- will never come to an end with violent behaviours unless we cultivate a culture of peace in our lives. In order to cultivate a culture of peace, we have to admit that peace is a divine gift for all God’s people or for all human race. But it comes not in a ready state, but it is a process that carries a great price. The price is metanoia/conversion or repentance. Therefore, we ought to do is that metanoia, because:
- We are unable to properly articulate theological framework of peace
- We are unable to live as good neighbours
- We are unable to deliver good news to the poor
- We are unable to handle global climate crisis
- We are unable to work together as partners
Let us go through metanoia in order to love each other, to share with one another to make our community become truly humane: based on faith, hope, love, and peace.
What is the peace that is a divine gift? What is the peace we are called upon to make, keep or cultivate in our midst? I believe that peace is a condition of security, belonging, contentment, and fullness of life for all God’s people. Its includes offering and sustaining relationships to all and with all. Its includes constructive and purposeful activities and mutual services and encouragement to free undue stress and anxiety. Peace is a state of harmony, friendship, and reconciliation among the people or groups of people. We are here because we are casting our vision, mission, wisdom, hope, and commitment to building community of peace and well-being in this world.
Understanding culture
A conventional understanding of culture may be described as the total of the passed on ideas, beliefs, values, knowledge, which constitute the basis for social action. In order to understand culture clearly, let me quote from H. Richard Niebuhr’s book Christ and Culture (1951). According to Niebuhr, “the cultures are forever seeking to combine peace with prosperity, justice with order, freedom with welfare, truth with beauty, scientific truth with moral good, technical proficiency with practical wisdom, holiness with life, all these with all the rest.” After all, culture is the social heritage, which is received and transmitted from generation to generation. For a culture of peace to take roots, we have to raise our prophetic voice, genuinely approach people of other faiths, systematically coordinate with civic groups and enthusiastically involved in building community of peace and well-being in our lives. We are called to be partners in building community of peace with justice in our day-to-day life. In order to build a culture of peace or build communities of peace and well-being for all races, we have to meet or gather together as much as possible and encourage one another all the way through. This is our way of overcoming our weaknesses or our tendency of remaining as a silent majority. As long as we remain a silent majority, just/peace will never stay with us. Peace building ethos and peace-making pathos are utmost tasks for all of us. Moreover, moral values of freedom and accountability of the western society and the community solidarity and social order of the eastern society may be a solid ground for building community of peace and well-being in our time.
Good life
People in Asia, like people anywhere in the world, aspire for good and quality life. Good life is possible only if every human being has their day-to-day life based on well-being. Quality life is possible when basic livelihood, good health, good social relations, security and freedom are guaranteed.
Life is valuable and precious not only for an individual but also for the whole of God’s creation. Religious teaching and Christian life, therefore, become relevant for achieving people’s aspiration. Christianity teaches that humans and all beings in nature exist to help each other. All beings are connected and in a relationship to save each other. Only humans dream of ‘a good life only for me’. This is especially true in modern times when community values are declining and individualism is strengthening. Only when we live well together and think and act in a way that benefits each other will we achieve a good life both personally and society.
Today, we have gathered here for general assembly of the APAY to seek God’s wisdom for our common “Vision 2030” of fulfilling the ecumenical task or YMCA’s endeavor of good life for the people in the entire world.
Community Wellbeing
I observed that “Vision 2030” is carefully crafted document of YMCA. The goals and strategies to deal with the global crisis and problems are well-organized, and four areas of influence are organized in a way that can be integrated among them and with UN SDGs. However, on the part of “Community Wellbeing” is too much confined with YMCA’s internal consumption. Therefore, we better to explore our YMCA priority concerns to local community, faith community, academic community, and human community for the betterment of people’s aspiration. When YMCA is connected to society and studies in languages of various sectors of our society and prays for God’s good, it will have the power to cultivate a culture of peace and change our society with the help of the Holy Spirit.
At this point, I would like to highlight Gustavo Gutierrez’s Liberation Theology. I find his theological analogy on “we drink from our own wells” is very inspired one. Regardless of all the members of community or any passengers of that particular community are freely drinking from the same wells. Drinking of the community wells are given to not only members of community but also all of visitors including cattle as well. There is no monopoly of community wells by particular circles of people. Therefore, YMCA needs to provide the Oasis for all the living creatures. YMCA have to preserve reservoirs for all the community members so as to offer enough source of energy for human community.
As far as “community wellbeing” is concerned, YMCA need to directly involve in building communities of faith, hope, love, and peace. “Vision 2030” of YMCA should articulate for relevant mission tasks related to local community, faith community, academic community, and human community at large. In order to promote community wellbeing, we have to open our hearts and minds for successful achievements of YMCA’s “Vision 2030” in the years to come.
May it be so, indeed!
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This Biblical reflection was delivered at the 21st General Assembly of Asia & Pacific Alliance of YMCAs in Chennai, India, from September 15-20, 2023.
The YMCA Los Baños Celebrated its 100th Anniversary
This Hi-Y Club Highlights
- 100 Years Thanksgiving Program
- YMCA Los Banos: A Brief History
- Tinig Makiling Chorale of LBHNS BM Sings
Celebrating 100 Years of YMCA Los Baños: Hi-Y BM Takes Center Stage
Los Baños, November 30, 2023 - Last November 22, 2023, the vibrant and dynamic Hi-Y BM (Hi-Y Batong Malake) club participated in the grand celebration of the 100 Years of YMCA Los Baños at the iconic YMCA Hall. The event showcased a rich program that highlighted the historical significance of the YMCA in the community. The flow of the program was meticulously crafted to commemorate the century-long journey of YMCA Los Baños. It commenced with an uplifting Opening Worship and Blessing of the Social Hall, led by the esteemed Rev. Rose Kalagayan Agustin. The atmosphere was filled with a sense of reverence and gratitude for the longstanding presence of YMCA in the lives of the people of Los Baños.
Fit for Service to Fellowmen
The Tining Makiling Chorale of LBNHS - Batong Malake, with their melodious voices, took the stage to render the National Anthem, setting a patriotic tone for the evening. Following this, YMCA President and Trustee Rodolfo V. Tolentino delivered a warm Welcome Message, expressing gratitude to the community for their continuous support. The General Secretary of YMCA, Rolito H. Bacalangco Jr., took the opportunity to acknowledge the collective efforts and contributions that have made YMCA Los Baños a pillar of the community. Trustee Fredita Q. Villamayor then presented a captivating journey through time with "YMCA Los Baños: A Brief History," showcasing the organization's evolution and impact over the past century.
Rev. Rose of CAP (Church Among the Palms) together with the YMCA Trustees, employees and students of different school in Los Banos for the blessing of the YMCA Social Hall
Tinig Makiling Chorale of LBNHS - Batong Malake performs National Anthem during the opening program
One of the highlights of the evening was the Awarding of the Anniversary Poster, recognizing the creativity and talent that emerged in celebration of this momentous occasion. The celebration continued with a captivating Mini Concert featuring selected talented students from various schools collaborating with Hi-Y clubs. The participating schools included LBNHS Batong Malake, LBNHS Poblacion, Christian School International (CSI), Bayog Senior High School, Los Baños Integrated School (LBIS), and Colegio De Los Baños (CDLB). The performances resonated with the audience, showcasing the vibrant youth culture within the Hi-Y community.
Trustee Sally R. Tumambing delivered the Closing Remarks, expressing gratitude to everyone who contributed to the success of the event and emphasizing the importance of continued community engagement. The evening concluded with a Fellowship, fostering a sense of camaraderie and unity among the attendees. The Master of Ceremonies, YMCA General Secretary Rolito H. Bacalangco Jr., skillfully guided the program, ensuring a seamless and memorable celebration. The 100 Years of YMCA Los Baños celebration not only marked a significant milestone in the history of the organization but also highlighted the role of Hi-Y BM and other youth groups in contributing to the vibrant legacy of YMCA in the community. The event served as a testament to the enduring spirit of service, community, and collaboration that defines YMCA Los Baños.
by Rudjerick C. Ocampo
PHOTOS OF THE EVENT
The YMCA of Hong Kong Celebrated its 100th Anniversary of the Laying of the Foundation Stone on Salisbury Road
“Therefore everyone who hears these words of mine and puts them into practice is like a wise man who built his house on the rock.” (Matthew 7:24)
January 21, 2024 marked a momentous milestone for the YMCA of Hong Kong as it celebrated the 100th anniversary of the laying of the foundation stone on Salisbury Road, Tsim Sha Tsui, Hong Kong. This commemorative event was marked by a series of significant festivities.
The celebration commenced with a Thanksgiving Worship, where profound gratitude was expressed to God for choosing and appointing visionary leaders over the past century. These leaders laid a solid foundation for the YMCA's mission of service, community development, and youth empowerment. The worship was officiated by The Most Revd Chan Au Ming Andrew, Archbishop and Primate of Hong Kong Sheng Kung Hui, with a benediction delivered by The Rev. Dr. John Snelgrove, the Hon. Chaplain of YMCA of Hong Kong. During the worship, 13 colleagues from various departments, youth group and volunteers of the YMCA of Hong Kong praised the Lord by hymns, adding a musical dimension to the proceedings.
“Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for human masters, since you know that you will receive an inheritance from the Lord as a reward. It is the Lord Christ you are serving.” (Colossians 3:23-24)
The day also marked the grand opening ceremony of the Y Muse. The opening ceremony was led by Mr. Patrick Yip, the President of YMCA of Hong Kong, Mr. Peter Ho, the General Secretary of YMCA of Hong Kong, and The Most Revd Chan Au Ming Andrew, Archbishop and Primate of Hong Kong Sheng Kung Hui. The museum showcases five exhibition zones, including an extensive collection of historical photographs. The museum aims to provide the public with a comprehensive understanding of the YMCA movement through visual, auditory, and interactive experiences. Notably, the accompanying video narration was recorded by students from San Wui Commercial Society YMCA of Hong Kong Christian School, fostering a sense of collaboration.
The Centennial Thanksgiving Dinner was filled with memorable moments. Mr. Peter Ho, the General Secretary of the YMCA of Hong Kong, engaged in a dialogue session with the Board of Directors, during which they shared their motivations for joining the YMCA and their aspirations for the future of the YMCA of Hong Kong. Additionally, the establishment of the YMCA of Hong Kong Worship Team was announced during the dinner. This initiative seeks to cultivate a culture of regular worship and praise to God. It further underscores the YMCA's commitment to empowering the next generation and celebrating the spirit of volunteerism, which has always been a cornerstone of the organisation's mission. The launch of the Worship Team highlights the YMCA's dedication to nurturing talent and providing young individuals with opportunities to express themselves through music.
With unity, truth, peace, joy, hope, love, and faith at the core of our centennial celebration, we are steadfast in our commitment to uphold and promote these values. We will share this profound essence with the world, the entire Hong Kong community, and our dedicated staff. It is through these principles that our centennial truly comes to life.
“May we all be one.” (John 17:21)
The YMCA Timor Leste held its General Assembly to Electa a New Board and Staff & Develop the Movement Strategy
I would like to thank everyone, especially YMCA members and board members, for the trust bestowed on me as a new Board President. This is a privilege momentum and a great opportunity to extend our hands to one another for the support. I hope that this year is a great momentum that requires all members to contribute to strengthening the YMCA for a better plan. We could agree on different aspects or disagree to some extent, that is what we call the difference between us that means it defines the identity of who we are in this era of globalization. Those differences are parts of the bonds that are scattered. For that, we can put those bonds together as we go forward need to extend our hand and put those differences into one place and construct a better solution to respond to each of those difference. At this stage YMCA Timor-Leste has the ability to keep moving forward, anything we act we shall act together, and remember to put people at the center of our interest, so no one is left behind. Congratulations to all of you!
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Marcos Pinto President | Alotu Sarmento Vice President | Harun Yohanes Boavida General Secretary | Lourdes Correia Member /Administrative |
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Elizabeth Baptista Member | Lorenca Freitas da Piedade Member/Interim Director | Cesaltina Pinto Soares Member | Jeronimo Hendrique Baptista Member | Antonio BS da Silva Member/School principal |
Dear Readers,
Greetings from the General Secretary of YMCA Timor-Leste!
As we enter the Year 2024, in fact, we are in 2024 already. I wish you all good health and good spirits to start kicking off a new and fresh activity for the year. We faced challenges in the social, natural, and economic areas for the last 20 years, and a new budget year is demanding! I wanted to take this moment to express my gratitude and appreciation for the trust and faith vested in me by the YMCA of Timor-Leste members by appointing me as the General Secretary of the YMCA of Timor-Leste on December 16, 2023, for three years from 2024 to 2026.
"I’M SO GRATEFUL,” as it is a colossal responsibility. But, I am sure that with the blessings of our Lord Jesus Christ and the support from everyone, I should be able to take the YMCA of Timor-Leste to a better future. The YMCA of Timor-Leste has always been a beacon of hope, fostering holistic development and nurturing individuals of all ages, and we foster progress toward common interests that we will not leave anyone behind. From promoting equal opportunities to inspiring and empowering countless lives in these challenging times, the YMCA's commitment to serving the community has been nothing short of extraordinary.
Your unwavering dedication to supporting those in need, whether through development initiatives such as educational, social outreach, or environmental sustainability, has made a significant difference in the lives of many. As we move forward, we must acknowledge the tremendous resilience and adaptability displayed. Together, we can build a stronger, healthier, and more compassionate society. I wish you all the time filled with hope, joy, and new opportunities from the blessings of our Lord Jesus Christ with us, and thank you.
Best regards
Harun Yohanes Boavida
GENERAL ASSEMBLY PARTICIPANTS
Opening remarks from the funder of the YMCA of Timor-Leste, Reverend Francisco de Vasconcelos, STh. “It’s time for the YMCA of Timor-Leste to be independent and grow. The YMCA of Timor-Leste stand for 20 years back, since 2004." However, there are challenges for the YMCA in progressing its activities towards the common interest. Twenty years have passed, and now, to move forward, every member and contributor to strengthening the institutional capacity is highly recommended; it has been slow in the past activity implementations affected the organization's mandate. We also acknowledge that the YMCA of Timor-Leste does not have equivalent financial capacity. Nevertheless, we have human resource capacity. Absorbing internal capacity starts with board members contributing a membership fee. As we know, most of the YMCA of Timor-Leste members are students and unemployed. However, we have time to act and utilize the resources to gain future income and support the organisation's sustainability.
GENERAL SECRETARY HANDOVER CEREMONY
Administrative desk to support and assist General Assembly meeting – the station where the master ceremony was used for handling meetings.
Handover ceremony from the outgoing general secretary to the elected general secretary, with witnesses from the elected president and the vice president. The elected board member for the period 2024–2026, hence the handover ceremony, went smoothly and expressed gratitude to the prior General Secretary, Mr. Antonio BS da Silva, who was going through several processes to ensure the existence of the YMCA in Timor-Leste. And it was a successful achievement to establish several activities on the ground.
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PROGRAM UPDATES
A. Japan Language Course
The Japan Ambassador for Timor-Leste Mr. Kimura Tetsuya participated in the graduation of the Japanese language course held in 2023. A total of 27 students received the certificates as Japanese native speakers, which was successful. The Japan ambassador handed over the certificate as one of the cooperatives between the Japan Embassy and the YMCA of Timor-Leste.
These Japanese language course programs aim to support the government of Timor-Leste through the Secretary of State for Vocational Training and Employment (SEFOPE) to provide qualified people to compete as sessional workers who will be deploying to Japan.
With results in 2023, two Japanese language course students successfully met the professional criteria and were deployed to Japan. In 2024, SEFOPE requested to submit a list of students who completed their Japanese language course. The YMCA submitted a list of six students who are identified as capable of competing in the national examination that SEFOPE will conduct.
The YMCA of Timor-Leste is committed to maintaining the Japanese language course in 2024, which is the current enrollment status. However, we need support and assistance to refurbish the training room to meet national standards as a training centre. In addition, we are also required to hire a Japanese trainer to continue supporting this program for future plans. The actual trainer is a volunteer, which gives us a limitation on the registration process of the training centre.
B. YMCA Preschool department
The YMCA of Timor-Leste graduated 41 students from the preschool department for the 2023 school year. We hope that the 2024–2026 YMCA of Timor-Leste will also extend to primary schools, as we had limitations on room space and building capacity.
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PHOTOBOOTHS
Smile of the YMCA of Timor-Leste youth and board members committed to maintaining YMCA activities in Timor-Leste. Encourage youths to participate in the YMCA of Timor-Leste events and activities. Utilize every opportunity for the business continuity of the organization.
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