LIMERICK – The city of Limerick played host to the Conference of Delegates from the Young Men’s Christian Association (YMCA) on Saturday, marking a significant gathering for the organization. The event, held at intervals throughout the day, concluded with a closing function at Havergal Hall in the city.
Mr W. Wright from Belfast, the Secretary of the Irish Union, expressed gratitude for the warm hospitality extended by the people of Limerick. On Sunday, D. Crosbie, D.L., from Castle spoke at the meetings, continuing the proceedings on Monday.
The official start of the Conference began with Mr Bennis reading a paper titled “The YMCA and Its Ideals.” Following this, Canon, addressing the audience, provided a brief report on the work accomplished in various centres across Cork, Waterford, Ennis, Tralee, and Limerick.
Elections for district offices within the National Council and District Executive Committee took place. The Rev. Canon Sherison of Limerick was re-elected as the President of the South Ireland district, while Mr Cosgrove from Cork was chosen as Treasurer, and Mr H. O. S. North Non-om from Cork assumed the position of Honorary District Secretary.
Representatives elected to the National Council in London included Mr Waterford, Mr Corr from Cork, and Mr T. Harrington, also from Cork. Additional representatives to the District Committee were Mr H. G. S. North Newsom from Cork and Mr C. W. Huffington. The election results were indicative of a commitment to continuing the YMCA’s mission in the South of Ireland.
Mr Wright took the opportunity to shed light on the impactful work of the YMCA in the South of Ireland. He read an insightful letter from Mr McGowan, from Rangoon, Burma, highlighting the representation of the YMCA in that part of the world.
The closing remarks were delivered by the Reverend F. C. Gibson, from Dublin. In a previous session, he passionately appealed for increased support and empathy for the YMCA, expressing the hope that the association’s objectives would flourish and expand.
As the conference concluded, delegates and participants left with a renewed sense of purpose and commitment to the ideals of the YMCA. The event served as a platform for fostering collabouration and understanding among Christian men dedicated to the association’s principles.
This gathering in Limerick reflected the broader mission of the YMCA, emphasizing the importance of community engagement, spiritual growth, and the promotion of Christian values. The city warmly embraced the delegates, reinforcing Limerick’s role as a welcoming hub for such significant conferences.
Dublin Daily Express – Wednesday 01 October 1913
