Learning, Growth and Faith: My Experience at the 40th Advanced Studies Program

Learning, Growth and Faith: My Experience at the 40th

Advanced Studies Program

I’m Blessing, Secretary at YMCA Madras, India. My journey at the YMCA began in 2019, and after serving 4 years, I’m happy to attend the 40th Advanced Studies Program (ASP) of the APAY, held in YMCA Penang. I thank God for the blessings and opportunity given by Madras YMCA & NCY India. Throughout the training, including online sessions and in-person, I have learnt many things through this 40th ASP program. it gives a diverse understanding of the cultural and traditional practices of the participants of the ASP and also a brief idea of the works of the YMCA at the national, regional and global levels.

Sharing of YMCA Journey helps to understand the works of the YMCAs in different places, as we’re a diverse group of Participants from different countries. It also enables us to understand unique projects of the YMCA in relation to the context. It also helps us to see the programs that are within the framework of the VISION 2030 and gives an awareness to introduce such kind of programs or projects in our YMCA. It also motivates us to be more creative and innovative. The ASP sessions created a good platform to network with all the participants from different countries. And the most important learning from this session is, ‘how we can address the challenging situation in our personal and professional life and move forward’. The sharing has enabled us to connect with each individual personally and professionally.

YMCA Mission in Context

The session on the YMCA Mission in context helped us revisit the practices of YMCA and how it has evolved in today’s context. GS Nam Boo Won shared through knowledge the journey in YMCA, which enabled us to rejuvenate on our works as YMCA professional. The session encouraged us to align with the core principles of the YMCA. However, in the global context, the YMCA challenges us to reflect on an identity crisis, raising the question: Is our foundation still rooted in Christ’s teachings? Nevertheless, in my own home YMCA context, we firmly believe and uphold that Christ is the Cornerstone of the YMCA.

Climate Justice for a Sustainable Planet

Mr. Chan Beng Seng’s session on climate justice was highly informative, offering valuable insights into the urgency and importance of taking prompt and wise action, both as individuals and as YMCA professionals. The session revealed how significantly human actions contribute to the ongoing climate crisis. It also provided exposure to various ways in which climate change is affecting the habitats of living beings on Earth. Additionally, the session offered a brief overview of APAY’s efforts and responses to climate issues. The session encouraged us to introduce the green practices in the YMCAs and also to create awareness among the people to respond to climate change.

Ecumenism and Ecumenical Movements

Ms. Sunita Suna’s session on Ecumenism has enabled us to understand that the essence of ecumenism lies in fostering shared beliefs, values, and practices, which we have come to appreciate as its foundational principles. These principles encourage unity while respecting diversity within the Christian community. In our place YMCA plays an important role by providing a meaningful platform for promoting such engagement. It serves as a space where people can come together for dialogue, worship, and ecumenical services. Through these initiatives, the YMCA facilitates mutual understanding, spiritual growth, and collaborative efforts among individuals and communities, contributing to the broader vision of unity and harmony.

And to end my reflection, as said in Matthew 6:33(KJV), “Seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you”. let us seek first God in everything in our own personal and professional life, God will provide all our needs. God Bless.

S. Blessing, Secretary - YMCA Madras, India

40th Advanced Studies Participant