Y.M.C.A.

Dominion, Volume 5, Issue 1450, 27 May 1912, Page 5

Y.M.C.A.

NEW ZEALAND NATIONAL COMMITTED. The fij&t meeting of iho newly-formed National Committee of (ho Young Men's Christian Associations O) New Zealand was held on Vriday evening last. Mr. I!, R. I'eacuck, , chairman for A us-: tralajif) opened tlip proceedings by outlining tho steps which had led up tp the present position. Hitherto Iho various 1 branches and sprung into existence in different ventres, meeting with wore or le.«s success, depending on local conditions. The time had now tome, however, when the need was felt for a more united, cohesive organisation to make the individual associations permanently successful, and tho movement as a whole more effectivo as a national intiuence. A scheme of organisation hod been submitted to the various brunches and leaders throughout the Dominion, and had met with practically niißuiinoiKs approval. The National Committee now had the opportunity of planning on bropd lines with far-seeing rision so as to definitely influence t|io development of national Christian eharaoter. New Zealand had shown courage in dealing wjth some of the great problems of t|ie world along the lines of social, industrial, and defence legislation, and there was no reason why she should not lead tho world in building up the highest ideal of Christian citizenship. He quoted the words of Mr. 0. F, Ward, of Canada, who said: "The type, of evangilism has changed. The froth is off. The new evangelism teaches steady work and sarri--liee. Revivalism is good as a (onie, Imt you couldn't live on tonic alone. Wo've. got the idea of an awakening that's like a man quietly getting up to do a long day's work. This movement of ours is organised revivalism, with the water o!f tho ljoil- It's a nation waking up to make itself Christian. No move boiling revivalism, but steady work, regular work, persistent and organised work—all the- time. What for? l'o make men.

. . . We gel the best, men to teach the history and spirit of Christianity, so that he can hold his own in any argument as welt as know how to "live the life; mid we get the. best men to educate him in nil sstonlar subjects, so that, ho mny bo able to enjoy existence like a rational creature as well as fit himself for Rood employment ; and wo ijct: the best physical directors to educate him in the development of his body, so that, lie may bo able to appreciate the joy of health as well as save money on the doutnr and prove himself a string' citizen, worthy of a great country.'" In conclusion, h<? expressed the utmost confidence that under ilie blessim? c-f Ciod the National Committee would accomplish great; things for New Zealand. It had a magnificent opportunity, and would prove equal tp the great responsibility. He wished them God speed. The first officers were elected as follow:—Chairman, Professor Picken; vicechairman, Mr. C. 15. Smith; lion, treasurer, Mr. ,1. C. Port; hon. secretary. Mr. W. C. Tlemery; members, Messrs. .T. 0. W. Aitkeii. and 11. W. ICersley.

Contributions from associations am! individuals for substantial amount? were received, sufficient to justify the immediate engasenieu! of an crpanisine anil supervising officer for .Yew /orlu'ld. Tl; was decided to immediately cnblc to Mr. A. Jameson, M.A., oim(i<rinfr him !o fill tlie position. The randif i»n_ of the various branches in New Zealand was veported on. and other matters of a. routine nature were deal! with. II was reported that the Dunedin Association is about to enter upon a week's campaign to raise .ESOOO to enable their new building to be opened free of debt. Tt is expected that Mr. Jameson will arrive early in 'July !o take up his work in this country.