As far as I’m aware, sexual orientation has not previously been—and is not now—a disqualifying factor for boys who want to participate in LCMS sponsored youth groups. Our congregation does not have a rule against gay youth participating in youth activities. I doubt we will start banning gay youth from LCMS sponsored functions. I hope not.

As a life-long LCMS member and Scout leader of many years, I hope the LCMS will continue to support not only Boy Scouting but also various outreach to young people through local congregations, including: Girl Scouts of the USA, Camp Fire USA, 4-H, Big Brothers Big Sisters, elementary/middle schools serving underprivileged children, and various other organizations that do not require one to be heterosexual.

As the Church of Christ has indicated, “God has put a challenge before us. We are not called to be a people of fear instead we must be a people of faith. We are His people and we will stand strong to be a witness for our understanding of Christian values. We are reminded of the biblical story of the prophet Jonah, who after running from God and His will to reach out to the people of the wicked city of Ninevah finally entered that city and was a powerful witness to the people of the redemptive power of God’s steadfast love. We are perplexed by the decision that was rendered, but we are confident that God is in control and that we can continue to be a positive witness for Christ throughout the world of Scouting.”