1884.] Young Mens Christian Associations of Massaciinsetts.
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��doing grand work for young men in their several localities."
The reduction here spoken of is from one hundred and nine associations in 1869 to thirty-four in 1881 ; yet the work was being better done by the smaller number, and it is thus accounted for : Few dreamed to what this work would grow, therefore their aim was extremely vague, and the methods were inadequate. Seeing the need, — deeply interested in the salvation of young men, — the idea of the association took everywhere. They sprang up all over the State. Organization followed organ- ization in rapid succession, and then they waited to be told what to do, or flung themselves into the first seeming opening with no thought whether it was the work for which they were formed ; and we remember of hearing of one Young Men's Christian Association whose whole energies were concentrated upon a mission Sunday-school in a deserted district, — a good work, but not a proper Young Men's Christian Association's work, when it represented all that was being done.
Two things, however, were accom- plished, even in those early days, for which we must always be very grateful, and in themselves are a sufficient raison d'etre. Young men were trained to work, and the reflex influence upon their minds was very great, and the real unity of the church of Christ was man- ifested as never before. The Young Men's Christian Association in town and village formed the natural rallying-point for all united work. A third great bless- ing should be mentioned. Not only has the unity of Christ's church been man- ifested, but also its distinctive standing upon the great Bible doctrines of the cross, which vitally separate it from all other religious bodies.
��Gradually the greatness of this work for young men has been appreciated, as the strong opposing forces have been met. The association is intended to influence those who are in the energy and full flush of young manhood, when the desires are strong, most responsive, and least guarded. The social instinct then is very strong. It is natural, and must be met in some form. Sinful al- lurements of every kind invite the young man, hurtful companionship welcomes him, the ordinary appliances of the church have no attraction for him. The association must see to it that his social craving is met by that which is interest- ing enough to attract him, and yet is safe. To counteract baleful attractions, others which call forth strong sympathy, and appliances which cost, in every sense of the word, must be furnished.
This means pleasant rooms, books, papers, good companionship, classes, lectures, concerts, the hall, and the gymnasium ; but more important than all, a trained man who shall give his whole time and heart to the work, and be amply remunerated.
Since these things are more or less necessary to successful effort for young men, it will readily be seen why so many associations have ceased to exist.
The committee have come to the conclusion that every town in the State where rooms can be kept open in charge of a general secretary should have a Young Men's Christian Asso- ciation, and where these cannot be furnished we are not anxious to establish it.
At the convention of 18S2, in Charles- town, it became apparent that, to meet the calls for evangelistic work and push the distinctive association work, two men were required. Two, therefore, were appointed : one to give his time
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