Eastern Missouri YMCA Keeps With Tradition

The YMCA was originally founded in London in 1844 to offer a place for young laborers (men) to substitute bible study and prayer for life on the streets. The concept of the YMCA has grown and changed over time, but the Christian principles of the foundation have remained.

It has become a tradition for newly-constructed YMCA’s to place a Bible in the foundation of the new facility. The Bible represents the Christian values that are embraced and embedded into YMCA programs and operations. The Bible is placed in the foundation open to John 17:21, “so that they may all be one, as you, Father, are in me and I in you, that they also may be in us, that the world may believe that you sent me.”

The last section of concrete for the Eastern Missouri Family YMCA was poured on the morning of Friday, March 9, 2018. The Bible was placed in the entryway to the new facility, so patrons entering the facility will always be reminded of the YMCA’s mission and founding principles. A dedication plaque will be placed in the facility entryway upon completion of the building.

The group attending the bible dedication was kept small in order to ensure safety on the construction site. Representatives of the Vandalia Recreation Corporation, YMCA Board, Mexico YMCA, and Felicity Goodpasture-Culwell’s family were present at the dedication.

The mission of the YMCA is “To put Christian principles into practice through programs that build healthy spirit, mind, and body for all.” The YMCA is meant to be more than a new building for the area. The Eastern Missouri Family YMCA will support a belief system that children need to be nurtured through play, good nutrition, and positive role models. It will be a place for seniors to age gracefully through wellness programs and a friendly social environment, plus provide many opportunities for young adults in the area. The YMCA is meant to strengthen and unite the many communities surrounding Vandalia.