Our Christian Roots

The YMCA’s Christian identity and roots date back to its founding in 1844 by George Williams. At the time, the industrial revolution had caused a rise in poverty and exploited labour among young, displaced men. As an expression of Christian service, Williams felt called to make a difference and help people where he was, which led to the formation of the YMCA. 

The original object of the association was to improve the spiritual condition of young men engaged in the drapery and other trades by the introduction of religious services among them.  While the early emphasis was on spiritual improvement, a social dimension soon followed and a physical dimension not long after.

The YMCA was established during a new spiritual awakening in response to the needs of suffering young people, as part of a broader social movement taking place globally. It was a missionary endeavour that enabled its rapid and wide expansion, accompanied by ecumenical expansion. The YMCA developed its ‘holistic’ approach of Mind, Body, and Spirit, early on. 

Outreach happened in communities, and camps were a big part of its history. The YMCA created safe and welcome spaces for those they served, empowering, and inspiring them to have agency and do the work themselves. It evolved to meet the context and needs of the time, enabled by the industrial revolution and the purchase of land and building assets.

Our Partners

  • CFC South

    CFC South are a local church community that operate from our Stranmillis site throughout the week and for worship on Sundays.

    They offer a mix of community programmes throughout the week and we regularly partner together to run events and programmes.

    www.cfcsouth.co.uk

  • Dad Camp

    We partner with Crown Jesus Ministries each year to host and run DadCamp on our site in Stranmillis, South Belfast.

    A fun, challenging & memorable camping experience for dads and their children, aged 8 > 14 years old. DadCamp is designed to equip, inspire & encourage you to be the best dad you can be.

    https://www.crownjesus.org/event-details/dadcamp-2025

  • Alpha Course

    The Alpha Course is a series of sessions exploring the basics of the Christian faith, designed to be an accessible and friendly introduction for those curious about Christianity, offering a space to ask questions and engage in discussions.

    https://alpha.org.uk/

  • Unify

    We are a member of UNIFY; a platform for YMCAs to share, reflect and encourage on the Christian Mission of the YMCA, as stated in the Paris Basis (1855), the founding document of the YMCA.

    https://www.ymca-unify.eu/