Rags and Leathers?
The YMCA Rag/Leather program simply stated provides campers and staff alike the opportunity to accept challenges for personal growth. The terms "rag" and "leather" refer to items worn around the neck at camp as outward signs of these inward challenges. Acceptance of a Rag or Leather challenge involves personal introspection guided by the input of an adult camp counselor. The YMCA Raggers Program is one of the unique components of Y Camp that keeps campers and staff coming back year after year. It will celebrate its 100th anniversary in 2014.
All YMCA Rag/Leather challenges are personal and age-appropriate. Here are the guidelines we use:
|
Rag/Leather Step |
Challenge (to be personalized for each candidate) | Minimum Age |
|
Triangle Leather |
To grow in Spirit, Mind, and Body | 8 |
|
Square Leather |
To grow in Spirit, Mind, and Body, and Friendship | 9 |
|
Circle Leather |
To become close to God through appreciation, love and concern for all of His creation. | 10 |
|
Arrowhead Leather (unique to YMCA Camp Arbolado) |
To grow in self-discipline and responsibility | 11 |
|
Blue Rag |
I will be loyal to God, to my country, to my best self and to the Raggers' Creed* | 12 |
|
Silver Rag |
I will be a disciple of the principles that Christ gave to the world | 13 |
|
Brown Rag |
I will seek opportunities for Christian service | 14 |
|
Gold Rag |
I will grow in understanding of and concern for others | 15 |
|
Red Rag |
I will sacrifice my time, talent and personal will | 16 |
|
Purple Rag |
I will live a high and noble life | 18 |
|
White Rag |
I will dedicate my life to Christian service to youth | 21 |
*The YMCA Raggers' Creed is from the traditional Christian hymn "I Would be True," the spirit of which is appicable to good-hearted persons of all faiths.
I would be true, for there are those who trust me.
I would be pure, for there are those who care.
I would be strong, for there is much to suffer.
I would be brave, for there is much to dare.
I would be friend to all, the foe, the friendless.
I would be giving and foget the gift.
I would be humble, for I know my weakness.
I would look up, and laugh, and love, and lift.
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This Page Updated on Monday, April 9, 2012