As a scout leader I can not counsel youth that I don’t include. As a scout leader I can work to insure that my unit sets a Christian example with regular prayer and worship. I can teach youth that are involved.

The BSA has a good youth program and as long as we decide our leadership that is what’s important. Our focus should be on our leaders: do all of our leaders lead morally straight lives? Are we above reproach? I can’t throw the first stone at a sinner.

I understand that in the past many Lutheran youth were not allowed to be a part of the Order of the Arrow because of secrecy and oaths. So historically we haven't always agreed with the BSA. Other Church’s operate within the BSA but keep themselves very much apart. We will need to become more vigilant to ensure that our youth have good role models. Our Lutheran Association of Scouter’s will need to become a stronger, more vocal organization to help guide our units in whether to participate in District and Council events where we do not provide our own leadership. We could begin by all units displaying the Christian Flag and starting the morning with the pledge to the cross.

Our units need to proclaim our Christian beliefs. My unit has had un-churched scouts in the past; one scout I remember had never walked into a church until he walked in with his scout troop. The BSA is not perfect but I'd hate to think of the young man who never got the opportunity to hear the word of God or walk through the door of a church !

Alexia, Mother, Unit Leader, District, and Council volunteer