Hi, I am an Eagle Scout who has been born and raised in the Lutheran Church Missouri Synod. As an adult, I have continued to support the Scouting program at the Council, District and Local Unit level. Currently I serve as the Chartered Org Rep for the troop which meets at my LCMS church.

While I am dismayed at the BSA decision, I recognize that it is a changing landscape that we are living in. Our job as adults is to be servants and role models to the youth in our packs, troops and crews. While I do not agree with a homosexual lifestyle, I realize that their sin is no greater than my own. From a practical standpoint, I also realize that the BSA decision will not affect the function of the Scouting program at the Unit level. As Charter Org rep, I am still tasked with approving the adult volunteer applications and ensuring that they meet with the charter that the church holds for the troop. While this might affect some of the programming that happens at the district and council levels, a troop with a strong unit program can work around this.

I would urge patience, most of the people screaming the most for these changes have no vested interest in the scouting program other than enforcing their notion of equality. I for one will be praying for guidance so that I can continue to be the best shepherd for the young men and women in my charge.

Yours in Scouting and Faith,

Kirby Junge