The concern for youth
After1848, student life became more specifically organized. Associations were created to protect the young.
Young Men's Christian Association (UCJG)
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Minister Antoine Vermeil © S.H.P.F.
This youth organization, already active in England, was set up in France in 1852, with the help of pastors Antoine Vermeil, Edmond de Pressencé and Napoleon Roussel.
The main intention – of an interdenominational nature – was that young people of various backgrounds should meet and exchange with others, including from abroad.
Activities included meetings, lectures, meditation and spiritual growth. Language classes were likewise given on a regular basis.
From 1868, the UCJG employed a salaried General Secretary under whose guidance a wider range of activities were organized, including exchanges between France and the United States.
Later, premises were built with furnished bed-rooms, classrooms and a dining hall. At that stage the UCJG had the appearance it still has nowadays.
International Association of Young Girls' Friends - Young Girls' Christian Association (UCJF)
In 1893 the UCJF was created after the model of the UCJG. The principles were the same : they offered young girls of various backgrounds a place where to attend cultural and religious meetings, to have meals and even to attend keep fit classes.
The UCJF replaced the International Association of Young Girls’ Friends whose aim was to build a “protective wall” (“rempart de protection) around young girls who were isolated or had poor support, whatever be their nationality, religion or occupation.
Associated notes
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Service organisations in favour of the younger generations
At the beginning of the Third Republic, Protestant youth work expanded rapidly. It was meant to give underprivileged young men and women, constantly at the mercy of the numerous transformations... -
Societies for the promotion of education
As it received full recognition, the Protestant community had to provide itself with the tools that would make it part of history and guarantee its future. -
Edmond Dehault de Pressensé (1824-1891)
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Service organisations for the aid of pastors
Once the official recognition of the Protestant Church acquired, practical means had to be provided for. No wonder the issue of pastors’ living conditions arose soon after. -
Social aid services
After the 1848, Revolution and above all after the Commune, the Protestant community which included rich industrialists and bankers, turned their attention to the working class and the younger generations....