DURING the first half of the 19th Century Britain was in the midst of immense change, a consistent stream of reforms and technological advancements was transforming the nation.

It is into this scene of huge social upheaval that we encounter George Williams. Growing up George identified himself as a “careless, thoughtless, godless, swearing young fellow,” but something in those transitioning years captivated and transformed his outlook and he became a devout Christian.

In 1844, George was drawn to London through the magnetism of the industrial revolution and inspired by his faith and his concerned for his peers, he began to meet with colleagues to study the bible and encourage one another. Out of these meetings emerged the embryonic shoots of the Young Men’s Christian Association.

It would have been impossible for George to know how far that small kernel of faith would go, yet through his faithfulness today the YMCA operates in over 125 countries, providing services and activities to young people. You could say it went viral. Over the years the YMCA has diversified but at its core the mission remains the same… to unite those who, regarding Jesus Christ as their God and Saviour, according to the Holy Scriptures, desire to be his disciples in their faith and in their life, and associated their e?orts for the extension of his Kingdom (YMCA Paris Basis).

George’s experience may resonate with some of us as we reflect on our own journeys. For some there will be a moment, or an instance, whether it be through personal crisis, divine revelation or a clear rational process, where faith has burst forth into the horizons of our lives and changed everything. For us, like it was for George and countless individuals across the millennia, the challenge is to remain attentive and aware of the faith that God has called us to, and be ready to join in with His action.

PASTOR JAMES WILLIAMS Christian Spiritual Development Coordinator YMCA Worcestershire