I am truly sorry that so many of my fellow Lutherans are reacting to the media reports of what the BSA resolution said rather than reading the resolution itself and the explanatory notes which are found on the BSA www.scouting.org website.

FIRST, the resolution DID NOT open the door to open and overt homosexuals. It DID allow a young man to remain in Scouting who may yet only be confused about his sexual identity. The revised membership criteria makes clear that a Scout who identifies as homosexual cannot be removed from Scouting SOLELY for that reason. A Scout who solicits his troop members or is currently sexually active as a homosexual can be removed. I am constantly reminded that we in the LCMS are enjoined to Love the Sinner but hate the Sin.

SECOND, that same resolution REAFFIRMED the stand against homosexual leaders.

I was personally disappointed that the resolution passed in the face of overwhelming opposition by the "rank and file." I agree with the proposition that this represented no real change in the criteria for youth membership except it clarified that the BSA will look to conduct not inclination in making a decision to exclude. I remain concerned that this resolution will not serve to placate the LGBT agenda, but, rather, will embolden the advocates of immorality to continue their assault.

So... for the time being, I'm staying with the Scouting program. I'd rather fight the good fight from inside rather than the outside.

James R. Keller
Rochester Hills, Michigan
Our Shepherd Lutheran Church
Pack, Troop and Crew 1006
Eagle Scout Class of 1965
Vigil Class of 1987
Silver Beaver Class of 1988
Lamb Award 2005
Life-Long Member, LCMS