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On August 22, 1855 in Paris, France, at first World Council of YMCAs, a global purpose agreement was adapted by leaders across the globe. What is known as the Paris Basis is an acknowledgement of the work and witness of the YMCA. The Paris Basis reads: “The Young Men’s Christian Associations seek to unite those young men who, regarding Jesus Christ as their God and Savior, according to the Holy Scriptures, desire to be his disciples in their faith and in their life, and to associate their efforts for the extension of his Kingdom amongst young men. Any differences of opinion on other subjects, however important in themselves, shall not interfere with the harmonious relations of the constituent members and associates of the World Alliance.”The Paris Basis was reaffirmed in 1973 by the 6th WorldCouncil of YMCAs and the Kampala Principles were adapted in 1973, furthering the global mission of the YMCA. In 1998, the Paris Basis and Kampala Principles were reaffirmed in 1998 with the adaptation of Challenge 21. You can read about the Kampala Principles here and Challenge 21 here.
So why the history lesson and what does it have to do with the core value of respect? The Paris Basis, Kampala Principles, and Challenge 21 all build on the core value of respect. Each principle lifts up respecting persons because those persons are made in the image of the Divine. Respect isn’t something that is earned, despite what we have been told. Respect is something we give because we want to be treated with respect. Respect is the action step of the moral foundation laid by our value of care and allows us to be truthtellers.
The good book says, “Do unto others as you would have done unto you.” The Monday Morning Joe translation reads: Respect others as you would want to be respected.”
Our mission is to put Christian principles into practice through programs that build healthy spirit, mind and body for all.
