Duty to God

Scouting America holds that no member can grow into the best kind of citizen without recognizing an obligation to God. In the Scout Oath, members pledge: "On my honor I will do my best to do my duty to God and my country and to obey the Scout Law."

Scouting recognizes the religious element in the development of its members while remaining nonsectarian. It is not the role of Scouting to dictate religious practice, but to affirm that faith, in whatever form it takes, is foundational to good character and citizenship. That responsibility belongs to the home and to the family’s faith community.

The BSA designates the weekend before February 8, Scouting's Anniversary Day, as Scouting Anniversary Weekend. This is a time to celebrate the contributions of Scouts and Scouters across all faith traditions.

Scout Jumu'ah is observed by Muslims from Thursday at sundown through Friday at sundown.
Scout Shabbat is observed by Jews from Friday at sundown through Saturday at sundown.
Scout Sunday is observed by others on Sunday.

Chartered organizations also have the flexibility to celebrate on a date that works best for their faith community. The United Methodist Church, for example, observes Scout Sunday on the second Sunday in February. Local faith leaders are always welcome to choose the date most meaningful to their congregation.

On these occasions, Scouts give back in visible and meaningful ways. Some units wear a full field uniform to worship services, where they receive religious emblems and awards. Others organize service projects that directly benefit their faith organization.

The Garden State Council's Religious Relationships Committee organizes events throughout the year to serve our council's diverse faith traditions. For more details on upcoming events or to get in touch, email us at religious-events@gardenstatescouting.org.

To submit a nomination, complete the application and send it to:

Joseph Blazejewski
joseph.blazejewski@scouting.org

By mail:
Garden State Council
693 Rancocas Rd., Westampton, NJ 08060

Open to any Garden State Council youth under the age of 18 as of January 1 of the award year who has earned the Eagle Scout Award or the Venturing Summit Award. Candidates must demonstrate outstanding service, live the principle of Duty to God in their everyday actions, and have earned the religious emblem for their faith. Youth may be nominated or may apply on their own behalf.

Open to any Garden State Council Scouter age 18 or older. Candidates must demonstrate outstanding service, live the principle of Duty to God in their everyday actions, and have earned either the religious emblem for their faith as a youth or the Scouting National Adult Religious Emblem. Adults may be nominated or may apply on their own behalf.