A Scout is Reverent

The Boy Scouts of America maintains that no member can grow into the best kind of citizen without recognizing an obligation to God. In the first part of the Scout Oath or Promise the member declares, “On my honor I will do my best to do my duty to God and my country and to obey the Scout Law.” The recognition of God as the ruling and leading power in the universe and the grateful acknowledgment of His favors and blessings are necessary to the best type of citizenship and are wholesome precepts in the education of the growing members. No matter what the religious faith of the members may be, this fundamental need of good citizenship should be kept before them. The Boy Scouts of America, therefore, recognizes the religious element in the training of the member, but it is absolutely nonsectarian in its attitude toward that religious training. Its policy is that the home and the organization or group with which the member is connected shall give definite attention to religious life.

Scouting’s Anniversary

Scout Jumu’ah, Scout Shabbat, Scout Sunday

The BSA designates the weekend that falls before February 8 (Scouting Anniversary Day) as Scouting Anniversary Weekend. This is the primary weekend to recognize the contributions of young people and adults to Scouting.

Muslims observe Scout Jumu’ah from Thursday at sundown until Friday at sundown. Jews observe Scout Shabbat from Friday at sundown until Saturday at sundown. Others observe Scout Sunday on Sunday.

Even so, each chartered organization can use either of two other options to celebrate this special weekend. An organization can adopt a specific date to celebrate. For example, the United Methodist Church celebrates Scout Sunday on the second Sunday in February. It is always permissible for a local faith organization to celebrate on the date most acceptable to the faith leader and faith group.

On these important days, which are timed to fall near the February 8 anniversary of the BSA, Scouts give back in visible and meaningful ways. In some units, that means simply wearing the full field uniform to worship services, where the worship leader presents religious emblems and awards to Scouts and Scouters respectively. In others, the Pack, Troop, Crew, or Ship conducts a service project that benefits the religious organization.