The "C" in YMCA
The Young Men's Christian Association, or the YMCA, began with mission-based programming. We continue to promote that important part of our heritage and reach out to the faith-based community whenever we can.
Spirit, Mind, Body
In our earliest years in defining individual health, we considered the union of spirit, mind and body to be important in improving a person's quality of life. In all of our programming, we focus on nurturing all three elements in order to improve overall Health and Wellness.
Christian Principles in Child Care
Often we are asked, "what does the YMCA consider as Christian Principles?" At the root of our 150 year-old organization is our mission statement: To put Christian principles of love, respect, honesty, responsibility and service into practice through programs that build healthy spirit, mind and body for all. Each of these values we practice in our child care programs and activities.
Alpha
Alpha is a free, 8-week overview of the Chirstian faith for spiritual seekers and for believers. At Alpha, no question is too simple or too hostile. Alpha includes a great dinner, a talk on the basics of the Christian faith and discussion groups. Childcare is provided.
Cost: Free
When: Sunday, January 23 through March 13, 5:30 pm to 8:00 pm
Location: Sherwood Presbyterian Church, 21901 SW Sherwood Blvd
Contact: Len Tang, 503.925.8175 or www.sherwoodpres.org
Christianity Explored
Developed over 10 years, Christianity Explored is an informal course for people who'd like to investigate Christianity, or just brush up on the basics. It explores who Jesus was, what his aims were and what it means to follow him. You won't be asked to pray, sing or read aloud, and you can ask any questions you like. Or, if you prefer, you can just come along and listen. Christianity Explored has been around for over a decade now, and it's been designed to suit different age ranges and people.
Christianity Explored is for anyone who wants to investigate Christianity informally with a group of other people. Whether you have previous experience of Church, Christians and the Bible, or none at all, this course is for you. Everyone is welcome – from the most sympathetic Sunday schooler to the convinced atheist. We will respect your background, culture and beliefs. Tell us as little or as much about yourself as you feel comfortable. The classes are facilitated by a ministry team from Countryside Church.
Cost: Free to everyone
Location Offered: Sherwood Regional Family YMCA
When: January 12 - March 16 Contact: Roger Button at rbutton@ymca-portland.org or 503.625.9622
Journey to Freedom
Be it fear, loneliness, shame, addiction, grief or the many other emotional or physical strong-holds life hits you with, Journey to Freedom has helped guide thousands of men, women and families to hope, healing and restoration. This 8-week course offered by the Chirstian Principles division of the YMCA of Columbia-Willamette is designed to offer inspiration and hope for those who want to improve spirit, mind and body. The class is provided with a Journey to Freedom book which is separeated into 36 short explorations that are to be completed by participants once a day. The book is grouped in to short, daily reading prompts and reflection questions designed to strengthen a person's understanding of their own goals and the role of Jesus Christ in helping them attain them. Each week, the group will meet to discuss the exercises and to support each other on their journey to personal growth.
Cost: $15 for YMCA members, to cover the cost of the book you get to keep
Location Offered: Sherwood Regional Family YMCA
Contact: Bob Reichen at breichen@ymca-portland.org or 503.221.5336
Contact Information
Would you like to hear more about the YMCA's mission-based programming? Got an idea for a class or need a place for your bible study to meet? Please contact Roger Button at rbutton@ymca-portland.org or 503.625.9622
