ACTION IN SOLIDARITY WITH THE SUFFERING

In the Parable of the Good Samaritan, Jesus brings us back to the fundamental commandment of love of God and the love of neighbour, which are intrinsically related to the love for the self. It is in the re-discovery of God present in the human heart and being filled with the love of God that moves us to compassion for the suffering of others. Without conversion to compassion there cannot be a commitment to solidarity with the neighbour who is suffering and in pain.

Our sensitivity to the sufferings of the human person is the only thermometer to measure the presence of the ever-loving God, seeking to make a home in the heart of human person and in the soul of humanity. Without compassion there can be no solidarity. Without solidarity the coming of the Reign of God would seem so far away.

The main issues that the YMCAs have expressed that should be addressed include:

• Ethnic and religious conflicts

• Children and their rights

• Single Parents

• People with Disabilities

• Elderly

• HIV/AIDS

• Forced Prostitution and Girls' Trafficking

• Migrant Workers

• Response to Natural Disasters

Action Points for YMCAs:

Commitment to engage - strategically and pro-actively

The commitment to initiate and ensure the success of project/programme on the identified issues is needed. Efforts to integrate the vulnerable groups into the programs particularly involving youth and children are encouraged. The YMCAs may likewise look into existing structures and facilities that would promote the well being of "suffering" and provide a sense of belonging to community.

Empowering towards self-reliance

Support for the vulnerable groups needs to be directed towards achieving self-reliance and autonomy in contrast to dependency. Opportunities for leadership development and nurturing life skills should be provided.

Setting up/Revitalising Knowledge Base

YMCAs are urged to back actions with research and development strategies and tools, combining "hi-tech" approaches using latest technology with "hi-touch" approaches which would be equally sensitive to the socio-cultural situation of the suffering. Thus, needs will be identified accurately and appropriate actions in accordance with the goals and priorities of the YMCAs will be implemented. Knowledge and resources that may be collected from these experiences may be shared and disseminated through ICT-based channels and ‘distance learning' initiatives.

Strategic Partnerships

Strategic partnerships need to be forged with organisations to accomplish mutual goals and to broaden the reach of the YMCAs in identified area of priority. This will include coordinating and networking with other agencies/YMCAs for effective utilisation of resources, establish the "multiplier effect" and improve situation on work and programmes with the communities.

Training and Development

Training and development of skills for staff/volunteers/lay leaders and target groups is needed to cope with the specialized needs of the groups and initiate appropriate and meaningful programmes. This may also include experiential learning through exchanges, as well as dialogue, skills workshops, seminars, conferences, brainstorming sessions etc. Sensitisation programmes between and among YMCA staff/volunteers and the target groups to feel, understand and enhance knowledge.

We can go further on our reflections by attempting to establish the link between the Spirituality of Transformation of the whole of Humanity and Actions in Solidarity with the Sufferings, and hopefully the programmes included in this section will motivate us to start working with the suffering.

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