“There is no religious side to the movement. The whole of it is based on religion, that is, on the
realization and service of God.”
-Robert Baden-Powell, Scouting Founder

The scouts of Troop 282 gathered together Sunday morning after breakfast to hold church
during our October overnight.
They learned about obedience, and sang about God’s amazing grace. It was great to see the
whole group listening, singing along, and responding to the questions asked during the sermon.
Holding a church service is an important part of our overnights in Troop 282.
Scouts BSA does not promote any specific religious denomination, but has always
recognized that spiritual faith is important in the development of good citizens. This principle is
embedded in our “Declaration of Religious Principle,” which says each member should
recognize their obligation to God as part of becoming a good citizen.
We encourage Scouts to follow the religious teachings of their families and faith groups, and
to respect religious diversity. Scouts & scouters come from all walks of life, with various
backgrounds, beliefs, and faith experiences.
However, Scouts USA upholds a belief in God as a core value of the program.
Robert Baden-Powell, the founder of Scouting, made it clear that Scouting is built on
religious principles. He believed that Scouting should help boys realize their duty to God by
encouraging service to others and making the best of the life God has given them.
Over half of all Scout troops are affiliated with religious organizations, reflecting the strong
connection between Scouting and faith communities. The organization’s focus on core values
like responsibility, integrity, and respect ensures that Scouts develop a strong moral character
while learning to appreciate the diversity of their fellow Scouts.
“Church” isn’t a building, it’s a collection of people moving toward our Heavenly Father. That
can happened in a big climate-controlled building, in the middle of the woods, on a street corner,
or even on the side of a bluff overlooking a lake.
Scouting emphasizes a duty to God, teaching these young leaders to live out their faith
through service, responsibility, and respect for others- making Scouting a platform for personal
and spiritual growth.
Those church gatherings out in the middle of God’s creation are especially meaningful, as
we get to see His handiwork in the colorful fall trees and the bright blue sky, a fresh blanket of
snow, or whatever scenery He sees fit to bless us with. It’s also a blessing to be able to see
these young men & women connecting with God and each other.