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1. History The Young Men’s Christian Association (YMCA) is a product of the 19th-century revivals, which in North America were greatly influenced by Methodism. Young male believers gathered for prayer and Bible reading (Bible Study), promoted missionary projects, looked after the socially disadvantaged, and spoke to other young men whose Christianity might be threatened by the developing industrial society. Out of these gatherings an association arose that, when it spread to Germany, cooperated with and yet also rivaled the Inner Mission. Inspired by English merchant and phi…

[German Version] The Young Men’s Christian Association (YMCA) and Young Women’s Christian Association (YWCA) arose in the mid-19th century as the response of the revival ¶ movements (Revival/Revival movements) to changing social conditions in rising industrialization. The associations are interdenominational and offer groups for Bible study and prayer, educational programs and places of social protection. The YMCA was formed in Paris in 1855 as the first world ecumenical movement. The frequently stated purpose of its mem…