Americus times-recorder. [volume] (Americus, Ga.) 1891-current, 1910-01-14
REPORT OF GEN. SEC.
OF THE Y. M. G. A.
View of the Work DurinQ
Year 1909.

The annual report of Gen. Sect.
Harvey, of the Y M. c. A, giving a
general view of the work of the past
year and of the future was as follows:
With the reports of the various
standing committees we have been
able to gain a fair idea of status Of
affairs so far as figures are able to
convey such. 1t may bear repeating
however, that there is always GER
tain intangible result pervading that
are beyond the power of mere words
or figures to express.
1t was natural that very enthusias-
tic and fiattering conditions following
Immediately upon the opening of the
building should wane with the pro-
gression of the season. We we're
therefore undismayed by this and set
about with confident assurance to
planning for the fall and winter seas
on, with the results to which we have
just listened.
Building Now Heated.
In the outset of the season we were
seriously handicapped by the lack of
facilities for heating the building
With the resignation of Capt HAM
mond as President, it seemed to Je
felt that the moving spirit of the insti-
tuition had been lost, and the resultant
effect was felt in the depression fol-
lowing. Much as this was to be re-
gretted it doubtless was natural, but
nevertheless to be felt. With the in
stallation of gas heating facilities and
the rallying of spirits we have very lit
tie doubt that the work will be resum-
ed with vigor and enthusiasm.
The religious work is we believe
matter Of satisfaction, the Sunday ser
vices for men being we believe as we'll
attended as in any city of the state
with the exception of Atlanta and
Augusta While the apparent results
in the matter of professed conversions
have been regrettably lacking the ben
eficial stimulation of the spiritual life
of those in attendance will we believe
abide
Bible Class Work.
AS for the Bible class attendance.
the class taught by Col. Nisbet has
been most encouragingly attended.
This class seems to appeal to the
younger men and they have been
hearty in expressions of pleasure at
the benefits derived. The class con-
Quoted by DR.. Burrows has met with
unfortunate Interruptions that have
mitigated against it in the matter of
the attendance. With the passing of
the holidays and prospects of uninter-
rupted series it is to be hoped that
this class will meet with more hearty
response.
The gymnasium attendance has
shown the most serious results of the
lack of heating facilities and has not
been all that could have been wished
In this also better things are hoped
for in the future.
The keenest disappointment in the
matter of features planned was the
series of popular and practical talks
which seemed to not be desired mas
much as they met with no response at
all
What the Association Really Is.
At this time it should be noted we'll
that the work is only in the beginning
and it shall need some heroic endeay-
ors to make it what it is desired that
it be. 1t is trite saying, that may new
ertheless be applied to the Association
work, that water can rise no higher
than it's source. The Association is
more than a General Secretary. 1t is |
also more than a gymnasium, read
ing table or library, or more even than
a Sunday Mems Meeting and Bible
classes, important as these are. 1t is
an Association of young men--just as
its name proclaims. It's purpose is |
the enlistment of every young man and
boy in the community in one or more
of it's activities in which the spirit of
service is dominant. 1t is consum- |
nation devoutly to be wished that
every member may feel that he has
joined something more than a lyceum
course or purchase more than a seas
on ticket.