Commentary
What does Scouting look like when it understands itself to be part of a parish’s ministry with young people? Here are a few “snapshots” of the anticipated outcomes of this vision:
A Youth Ministry Identity
Adult Scout leaders understand themselves to be youth ministers as well as Scout leaders; they are trained in youth ministry as well as Scouting. They bring to their Scouting the explicit intention of impacting the faith of young people.
Prayer
Prayer is a strong, consistent part of the life of the Scouting unit. Meetings begin and end with prayer. Creative, developmentally appropriate prayer activities are a normal part of the unit’s affairs.
The Eucharist
The Eucharist is a normal part of the life of the Scouting unit. This is especially true on Scout Sunday, but also true on campouts and other trips and excursions. Unit leaders make sure their kids make it to Sunday liturgy, even if it’s not convenient.
Personal Faith and Spirituality
Unit leaders are growing in their own faith, and try their best to attend retreats, workshops, days of recollection, renewal programs and the like in order to further develop their own faith and ministry.
Faith Sharing
Faith is shared and celebrated on a regular basis. Unit leaders are comfortable and prepared to share their faith. The Scouts know they are in a place of faith not only because of where they meet, but by the way the adult leaders talk and behave. The sacred scriptures are familiar and frequently used as inspiration and guide.
Religious Emblems
The religious emblems programs are held in high regard by the unit leaders, and it is a priority to assist young people in achieving the emblems. Unit leaders not only encourage Catholic Scouts to earn the Catholic emblems, but also encourage Scouts of other faiths to achieve their respective emblems.
Parish Participation
The Scouting unit is clearly a part of the parish community, visibly present at parish events and activities, accountable to the pastor and/or parish staff. Unit leaders make efforts to build bridges of cooperation and collaboration with other parish ministries, and work hard to help their Scouts become fully contributing members of the faith community. Unit leaders establish a healthy, mutually supportive working relationship with the pastor and parish staff. They are active members of their faith community, effectively modeling the kind of faith and participation they are trying to develop in their Scouts.