JEUNESSE OUVRIÈRE CHRÉTIENNE (J. O.C.) — The J.O.C., founded in French-speaking countries in 1925, is a movement of young workers, organized “among themselves, by themselves, for themselves” and recognized by the Hierarchy.
The J.O.C. applies its own educational method, related to the life, sex, and age of its members, which takes the form of: a) a school of formation; b) a series of services for young workers; c) an action representing their needs.
It is divided into a male branch and a female branch, and comprises young men and women from 14 to 25 years of age. In special groups, young people from 14 to 17 years of age (jeune-j.o.c.) are educated. Adolescents under 14 are also recruited and organized in the pre-j.o.c. The organization operates through the national secretariat, regional federations, and local sections. The apostolic action of winning over and renewing the various milieus (workshop, neighborhood, etc.) is carried out through «équipes» composed of groups of young people, led by one or more «militants». The most widespread and characteristic services are those assisting soldiers and the sick, and recreational services. A characteristic feature of the educational action is the «inchiesa», which begins with direct observation of life and leads to action for the solution of various problems.
The badge is a small shield bearing the inscription J. O. C. and a red heraldic cross whose arms are entwined by a golden ear of grain.
The French J.O.C. publishes Masses ouvrières, the Movement’s basic monthly journal. In addition, the following other publications are issued: 1) for all members: Jeunesse ouvrière (for young men), Sillage (for young women); 2) for federal leaders: Lettre aux dirigeants fédéraux (for young men), Fédérales (for young women); 3) for leaders of the 14–17 age groups: Lettre aux responsables (for young men), Responsables (for young women); 4) for male and female militants: L'Équipe ouvrière, Militantes, Militantes malades, Jeune meneur, Entraîneuse, Chef de bandes (for boys), Vers la vie ouvrière (for girls); 5) for recreational services: Après le travail (for young men), Dans la course (for young women).
A parallel and analogous movement of a feminine character also exists.