APAY Regional Gathering during the World Council

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Last Updated (Friday, 23 October 2026 15:21)

APAY Regional Gathering Connects Asia and Pacific Delegates at YMCA World Council 2026

The APAY Regional Gathering was held on 24 July 2026 during the YMCA World Council in Toronto, bringing together 130 delegates from Australia, Bangladesh, Cambodia, Hong Kong, India, Japan, Mongolia, New Zealand, Philippines, Singapore, Sri Lanka, Taiwan, and Timor Leste for a time of fellowship, celebration, and regional updates.

The gathering opened with a prayer led by Rev. Dr. Toshimasa Yamamoto, APAY Treasurer, followed by introductions of participants representing National Movements, Retiree groups, APAY Board members, and staff. The APAY Change Agent from the region were introduced by Ms. Yura Rhee, APAY Executive Secretary, including those who were unable to attend due to visa and other challenges. The Change Agents were congratulated on their graduation and recognized for their commitment to strengthen YMCA and communities across the region.

The gathering celebrated the following newly elected members of the World Alliance of YMCAs Executive Committee from the region and also recognized all election candidates in appreciation of their willingness to serve the global YMCA movement.

  • Christopher Lewis, Australia - President

  • Charis Gabriel Lim, Singapore – Executive Committee Member

  • Czieloh Jomea Villajin, Philippines - Executive Committee Member

There was a special presentation by Dr. Bart Shaha, former General Secretary of both WAY and APAY, explored the theme “Psalm Song as a Youth Movement.”

The program concluded with regional updates and announcements delivered by outgoing APAY General Secretary Nam Boo Won, a closing prayer by Vice President Vincent George, and a group photo to commemorate the gathering.

Prepared by Yura Rhee, APAY Executive Secretary