Scouting Handbook The Purpose of Scouting in the Aaronic Priesthood and Primary As boys and young men strive to understand how to prepare for, worthily receive, and honor the Aaronic Priesthood, they will need the help and guidance of caring and loving adults. Much of this help can and should come from parents and a home environment that fosters the truths of the gospel. Leaders and instructors of priesthood quorums and Primary classes, under the direction of priesthood leaders, also teach, strengthen, and support the incorporation of gospel truths in the lives of boys and young men. In 1913, the Church adopted Scouting as part of the activity program for Aaronic Priesthood quorums and later for Primary boys ages eight and older. By providing opportunities for boys and young men to put into practice the gospel lessons they learn in the home and at Church, Scouting programs have been used to support the priesthood. The most widely accepted Scouting methods program is known throughout the world as the "Baden-Powell Movement," founded by Robert, Lord Baden-Powell, a retired British army general. Under priesthood leadership, Scouting can complement the purposes of Aaronic Priesthood quorums and Primary classes in building testimonies in boys and young men. Scouting can help boys and young men love and serve the Savior and honor their parents. Priesthood leaders may wish to rely on the following quote by Baden-Powell as a measure of any Scouting program's effectiveness: "Don't let the technical outweigh the moral. Field efficiency, backwoodsmanship, camping, hiking, good works, Jamboree comradeship are all means, not the end. The end is character-character with a purpose" (Footsteps of the Founder, ed. Mario Sica [Milano: Editrice Ancora Milano, 1984), 125). When properly carried out under the direction of priesthood leaders, Scouting supplements activities for young men of Aaronic Priesthood quorums and for eight-, nine-, ten-, and eleven-year-old Primary boys. Scouting also assists in accomplishing the eternal purposes of the priesthood and families. Scouting under Church sponsorship must not operate independently of the priesthood and the family. The Scout unit should become an extension of the home, the deacons, teachers, or priests quorum, or the Primary classes and should function as part of the Church's activity program for boys and young men. Scouting can help boys and young men enhance close relationships with their families and the Church while developing strong and desirable traits of character, citizenship, and physical and mental fitness, all based upon a firm belief in God. The original aims and purposes of Scouting outlined by Lord Baden Powell were to teach boys and young men spirituality, self-reliance, service, leadership skills, emergency preparedness, and conservation of natural resources. Scouts learning these skills participate in worthwhile community, school, and Church service projects. Boys and young men from families of other faiths may also participate in Church-sponsored activities. Training and Development Aaronic Priesthood and Primary leaders who are called to and accept Scouting responsibilities will benefit from training in Scouting policies and procedures as used by the Church. Trained Scouting leaders who understand the Scouting program are better able to serve boys and young men involved in Scouting activities. While responsibility for Scouting rests primarily at the ward level, stake presidencies encourage bishoprics to train ward Scout leaders, and they offer the support of stake leaders in training. Bishoprics may request through the stake presidency the assistance of the stake Young Men or the stake Primary presidencies. Additionally, the Boy Scouts of America sponsors Basic Training and other courses to help leaders learn Scouting methods and skills. Scouting leaders may enroll in these courses to supplement training from local priesthood leaders. However, Church leaders should not participate in Scout training such as Basic Training or Wood Badge on the Sabbath, or overnight camping that includes mixed groups of men and women, whether adults or youth, unless it is a family camp. In all cases in which funds may be expended for training, priesthood leaders should ensure that Budget Allowance Guidelines for the local unit are followed. The Partnership Relationship Priesthood leaders may participate as volunteers in district and council Scouting committees and activities to solidify relationships between Scouting and the Church. In every instance, leaders should do everything possible within Church policies to create good will, mutual understanding, and cooperation between the two partners. Area Relationships Committees Under the direction of the Area Presidency, the Area Relationships Committee strengthens the working relationship between the Church and the Boy Scouts of America. This committee is composed of stake presidents who have units with registered Scouts. The Area Presidency designates one stake president to chair the committee under their direction. Stake Leaders' Responsibilities for Scouting The Stake Presidency The counselor in the stake presidency who is the chairman of the stake Aaronic Priesthood committee directs the stake's youth programs under the direction of the stake president. He sees that Scouting is organized and functioning in the stake and develops a positive working relationship with the Boy Scouts of America. The Stake Aaronic Priesthood Committee The stake Aaronic Priesthood committee consists of the counselor in the stake presidency over youth (who serves as chairman) and a few members of the high council as designated by the stake presidency. High councilors assigned as advisers to the Young Women, Young Men, and Primary usually are members of this committee. The Stake Young Men Presidency The stake Young Men presidency, under the direction of the stake presidency, may be invited by wards to help conduct training and implement activity programs, including Scouting, for Aaronic Priesthood quorums. They coordinate this work with the high council adviser assigned to the Young Men. The Stake Primary Presidency Under the direction of the stake presidency, the stake Primary presidency is responsible to oversee Scouting for eight-, nine-, ten-, and eleven-year-old boys. They should ensure that the purposes of both Primary and Scouting are accomplished. The high council adviser assigned to Primary helps coordinate this work. He informs the Primary presidency of training opportunities, keeps them apprised of counsel and direction from the stake presidency, and helps them provide support and assistance to the ward Primary organizations. When invited by a bishopric, the stake Primary presidency may help orient ward Primary leaders in Scouting. The stake Primary presidency may: Help ward presidencies know and understand Church Scouting policies. Encourage ward Primary Scout leaders to participate in basic and other approved training. Encourage ward Primary presidencies to evaluate and discuss with their priesthood advisers the progress of each boy in his priesthood preparation and participation in Scouting. Report on the participation and progress of the boys in Scouting at the regular meeting with the high council adviser. Help plan stake day camps for eleven-year-old Scouts in conjunction with the local Boy Scouts of America Council. Evaluate the quality of the boys' program by visiting ward Scout meetings and activities when invited. Ward Leaders' Responsibilities for Scouting The Bishop Each bishop, as president of the Aaronic Priesthood, is responsible to help parents teach their children and youth to come unto Christ through righteous living and through activities that teach the concepts of preaching the gospel, perfecting the Saints, and redeeming the dead. The bishop is responsible to provide general direction for Scouting and ensure that it is properly organized and functioning. Bishop's Counselors The bishop's counselors help the bishop by overseeing the Scouting programs for eight-, nine-, ten-, and eleven-year-old boys and Aaronic Priesthood quo-rums. Under the bishop's direction, counselors should see that the various Scouting programs are organized as needed and that adult leaders are called and trained. Relationships with the Boy Scouts of America The bishop assigns one of his counselors or another worthy adult to serve as the ward's representative to the Scout district or council. This leader works with the District Commissioners or District Executive assigned to the ward to Register participants and ensure that all Scouts and leaders are registered. Encourage well-planned programs. Assist boys and young men in achieving progress in Scouting. Inform Aaronic Priesthood and Primary leaders of meetings or training opportunities. Help organize a committee for each Scouting age group in the ward. Encourage unit leaders and committee members to participate in Scout training. Help provide recognition for young men, boys, and their leaders. Committees Where possible, the bishopric establishes a committee to help meet the Scouting needs of each age group in the ward. The bishop calls capable adults to serve as committee members. The bishopric calls one member from each committee to chair it. Qualified adults, whether members of the Church or not, may serve on these committees. Fathers and mothers of boys and young men may be considered as prospective committee members. The member of the ward Primary presidency responsible for eleven-year-old boys serves on the committee that serves deacon-age Scouts. The member of the ward Primary presidency who is responsible for Scouting for eight-, nine-, and ten-year-olds serves on the committee organized to meet the needs of those age groups. A Scouting committee can be as large as needed to carry out its responsibilities to the individual Scouting unit. All committee members, whether members of the Church or not, must understand and be willing to maintain Church standards. Where leadership or the number of young men or boys is limited, one committee could represent all Scouting in the ward. Each Scouting committee should: Meet as needed to discuss Scouting in the ward and to receive assignments from the committee chair. Support and assist Scouting activities by providing needed services. See that the Scout units operate in accordance with Church policies and the standards of the Boy Scouts of America. Encourage boys and young men to earn the On My Honor and Faith in God awards. Scouting in the Aaronic Priesthood Aaronic Priesthood Quorum Advisers (Young Men Presidency) Under the direction of the bishopric, men called as advisers to deacons, teachers, and priests quorums serve as the Young Men presidency of the ward. Generally, they also serve as Scoutmaster, Varsity Scout Coach, or Explorer Post Adviser, respectively. Quorum advisers do not preside; instead, they assist and advise those who do preside. If assistant quorum advisers are called, they may serve as Scoutmaster, Varsity Scout Coach, or Explorer Post Adviser, or they may assist the quorum adviser in these responsibilities. In either case, both the adviser and the assistant adviser attend all meetings of the quorum and the Scout unit and must be duly registered with the Boy Scouts of America. As consideration is given to issuing these calls, priesthood leaders should always be guided by inspiration while endeavoring to match leader skills and abilities to the tasks that they will be expected to perform. A Scout Troop should be chartered for twelve- and thirteen-year-old young men. A Varsity Scout Team should be chartered for fourteen- and fifteen-year-old. Where priesthood leaders have determined to use the Explorer program for sixteen- and seventeen-year-old young men, an Explorer Post should be chartered for that age group. Such divisions are recommended to help maintain quorum identity. Youth Leadership Under the direction of the bishopric, the deacons and teachers quorum presidents preside over the members of their quorums in the ward. The bishop presides over the priests quorum and is helped by his assistants from the quorum. Scouting is part of the quorum presidency's responsibilities, but the Sunday quorum instruction period should not become a Scout planning session. Each Scout unit should have a senior patrol leader, a Varsity Team captain, or an Explorer Post president who is nominated by the bishopric and sustained by the quorum members, which for Scouting purposes constitutes election. This leader is usually the quorum president or an assistant in the priests quorum but may be another worthy young man, whether a member of the Church or not. These youth leaders in each Scout unit should hold a monthly meeting to plan the program for their Scout unit. This may be held after the quorum business has concluded in the presidency meeting. The quorum president, with help from his quorum adviser(s), uses this meeting to correlate each Scouting activity with other quorum activities. The president presides at and conducts the meeting. If another young man is called to be the youth Scout leader, the president may invite him to conduct the meeting. Quorum advisers attend this meeting to provide adult support and direction to those who preside over the meeting. If young men of other faiths hold leadership positions in Scout units, they may be invited to join the presidency meeting during the time that Scouting matters are discussed. The Boy Scouts of America publishes extensive materials describing the duties of these youth Scout leaders. These materials are available at local Boy Scouts of America Council offices. Scouting in Primary Scouting supports boys and their families by giving boys the opportunity to put into practice the gospel principles they have learned at home and in Primary. Under the guidance of a strong, faithful leader, participation in Scouting activities can foster spiritual growth and development. Scouting also provides boys with leadership opportunities. Scout meetings and activities for Primary-age boys are preferably held in the daytime. Scout meetings could be held at the ward meetinghouse, in a home, or in an outdoor setting. All Scout meetings and activities should open and close with prayer. Scouting leaders in Primary may help boys and their parents complete the application and registration for Scouting. Boys enter and advance in Scouting programs by age. The bishopric should consider calling parents to participate as members of a unit Scout committee or as adult leaders in Scouting. Cub Scouting for Eight-, Nine-, and Ten-Year-Olds Scouting for boys of this age, when properly carried out, is a learning, happy, fun-filled, home-centered, activity program. Parental involvement and help is the key to success in this program. The Church does not approve Scouting programs for boys younger than eight years old. Boys enter the Webelos program when they are ten years old. No Scout-sponsored overnight camping should be planned for boys under age eleven. Details for Cub Scout programs are published by the Boy Scouts of America and are available through local Boy Scouts of America Council offices. Scouting for Eleven-Year-Olds Eleven-year-old boys meet separately from the Aaronic Priesthood-age Scouts because they are not yet part of a quorum. Occasionally, special daytime activities for Aaronic Priesthood-age Scouts may include the patrol for eleven-year-old Scouts. Eleven-year-old Scouts preferably meet in the daytime, but if evening meetings are necessary, arrangements should be made to ensure that these boys are not away from their homes late at night and that they are carefully supervised until they arrive home. In consultation with the ward Primary presidency and the leader of the eleven-year-old Scouts, the bishopric appoints an eleven-year-old boy to serve as the patrol leader for the eleven-year-old Scouts. The patrol leader should, with adult leader assistance, choose his own assistant patrol leader and assign other duties in the patrol as needed. The Boy Scouts of America publishes information describing the duties of these youth leaders and the qualifications for their service. This information is available through local Boy Scouts of America Council offices. Eleven-year-old Scouts may participate in a one night camp three times each year. No other Scout-sponsored overnight camping should be planned for eleven-year-old Scouts. Each boy participating in an overnight outing should have learned and practiced the required skills before the camping experience. The leader of the eleven-year-old Scouts, consulting with the ward Primary presidency and the bishopric adviser to the Primary, organizes each overnight camping experience. The bishopric adviser to the Primary or another qualified male adult should be invited to supervise the overnight camping experience when the leader of the eleven-year-old Scouts is a woman. Women leaders do not participate in overnight camping with these boys. Fathers are invited and encouraged to participate in the overnight camping experiences with their sons and with boys whose fathers cannot attend. All overnight camps must include at least two adults. Eleven-year-olds or younger, including those whose fathers are the leaders of older Scout groups in the ward, should not accompany the older Scouts on overnight activities. Boys advance from Primary at age twelve and then attend the deacons quorum. Worthy members receive the Aaronic Priesthood. All boys twelve and thirteen years of age attend the ward Scout troop meeting. In addition, boys of other faiths may join the ward troop with permission of their parents. Day Camps Day camps offer opportunities for Cub Scouts and eleven-year-old boys to have fun outdoors and complete outdoor requirements. If the local Boy Scouts of America Council does not provide day camps or if they are not held within a reasonable distance for Church members to travel, a member of the stake Primary presidency could direct the organization of stake day camps. A member of the ward Primary presidency and the leader of eleven-year-old Scouts, with the help of the Scout troop committee, could organize ward day camps for eleven-year-old Scouts. A Day Camp Guide for Eleven-Year-Old Scouts (31374) is available at the local Church distribution center. Ward Primary Presidency The ward Primary presidency, under the direction of the bishopric adviser assigned to the Primary, has responsibility for Scouting for eight-, nine-, ten-, and eleven-year-old boys. The presidency is responsible to see that appropriate Scouting is organized and to ensure that all Scout leaders over these age groups understand how Scouting can strengthen the family and also help accomplish the purpose and objectives of Primary. The Primary presidency's responsibilities are to: Serve on the appropriate ward Scouting committees (see page 3). Coordinate Scouting activities with other unit activities and Primary activities. Ensure that Church policies and procedures are followed. Orient and supervise the adult leader of the eleven-year-old Scouts. Encourage this leader to participate in Scout training. Encourage Cub Scout leaders to receive training from the local Scout organization. Help leaders understand how Scouting can help the family and accomplish the purpose and objectives of Primary. Visit Scout meetings and activities to support and evaluate the quality of the boys' experiences in Scouting. In presidency meetings and in the regular meetings with the bishopric adviser to Primary, review each boy's progress and participation. Give regular reports to the stake Primary presidency about the progress of boys in the ward. Ensure that boys have an opportunity to participate in day camps. Help plan day camps. Teacher or Leader of Eleven-Year-Old Boys The Primary teacher of eleven-year-old boys may serve as the group's Scout leader, or another capable adult may be called to assume this role. The Scout leader should: Work under the direction of a member of the Primary presidency, meeting regularly to discuss the Scouting program and each boy's progress. Attend ward Primary leadership meeting. Encourage and help each boy to advance in Scouting. Keep an accurate record of his progress. See that boys participate in a day camp and help plan it if requested. Church Policies All Scouts and their leaders are expected to live the standards of the Church. Registration All boys, young men, and their adult leaders participating in approved Scouting in the Church are to be duly registered with the Boy Scouts of America through local councils. The bishopric may appropriately call men or women to serve as Scouting leaders for Primary-age Scouts, but women do not serve as leaders for young men of Aaronic Priesthood age. The Church does not sponsor Scouting for girls or young women. The Primary and Young Women programs of the Church are designed to meet the needs and interests of girls and young women. Uniforms The uniform indicates affiliation with the Boy Scouts of America and can create an immediate sense of belonging. No boy or young man should be excluded from Scouting if he is unable to purchase a uniform. Abbreviated or simple uniforms and insignia which have been approved by the Boy Scouts of America are appropriate and encouraged. Units may wish to maintain a supply of outgrown or used uniforms to make available for boys. The wearing of Scouting uniforms by adult leaders is optional, but it is encouraged where feasible. Scouting Month February has traditionally been designated Scouting Month in the United States. Leaders of Church-sponsored Scouting units may plan and carry out approved activities to recognize this tradition. However, in keeping with the purposes of sacrament meeting, wards should not combine observances of Scouting Month and Scouting Sunday with sacrament meeting. Boys do not wear their Scout uniforms while administering and passing the sacrament. Calling Leaders Worthy adults (whether members of the Church or not) may be called to serve as Scout leaders. Members of the Church serving in Scouting assignments should be sustained and set apart. Others who request it may receive a blessing from a member of the bishopric to help them in their assignment. All must be registered in Scouting in a timely manner Camping and Sabbath Day Observance Keeping the Sabbath day holy is a commandment of the Lord and the practice of the Church. The Church does not approve of hiking and camping trips on Sunday. Scouts and other youth groups should not travel to or from camps or youth conferences on Sunday. Plans for outings should ensure that Aaronic Priesthood brethren and other members can attend to their regular church assignments. An objective of the Aaronic Priesthood and Primary activity programs is to support the family and home. Therefore, Scouting events (except approved long term camps) are not held on Monday evening, the night designated for family home evening. Ward and Stake Specialty Programs Latter-day Saint Scout units do not participate in "specialty" or similar programs which focus exclusively on a particular skill, hobby, or career Stakes do not register Scout units. Such units take young men away from their wards and cause them to lose identity with their quorums. However, stake-sponsored events can benefit young men. Stake priesthood leaders should try to ensure that such activities are held at times that do not conflict with activities planned by a family, quorum, or ward. Scouting for Those with Disabilities Young men or boys with mental, physical, or emotional disabilities should be encouraged to participate in Scouting to the extent their abilities will allow. They may complete as many of the program requirements as possible. As much as possible, programs and activities should be designed to include Scouts with disabilities. The Boy Scouts of America provides information on how to provide successful Scouting experiences for those with disabilities. This information is available from local Boy Scouts of America Council offices. Safety Priesthood and other leaders responsible for outings and activities should refer regularly to the General Handbook of Instructions (see sec. 11 p.6) and the Activities Committee Handbook (30822) for Church policies and guidelines regarding activities and safety. Financing Scouting Leaders should follow the guidelines contained in the Budget Allowance Guidelines to finance their Scouting program. PRIESTHOOD PURPOSES To Prepare Young Men of the Church for -- The Priesthood -- Missions -- Temple Marriages -- Good Husbands and Fathers -- Lifetime of Melchizedek Priesthood -- Careers and -- Service in the Church and Community HOW THE SCOUTING PROGRAM CAN HELP ACHIEVE THESE PRIESTHOOD PURPOSES THE SCOUT OATH THE CUB PROMISE On my honor, I will do my best I promise to do my best To do my duty to God and my To do my duty to God and my country, country, and To help other people, and To obey the Scout Law; To obey the Law of the Pack. To help other people at all times; To keep myself physically strong, Mentally awake, and morally straight. THE VARSITY SCOUT PLEDGE As a Varsity Scout I will; Live by the Scout Oath (Promise), Law, Motto, and Slogan; Honor the dignity and worth of all persons; Promote the cause of freedom; and Do my best to be a good team member. THE EXPLORER CODE As an Explorer, I believe that America's strength lies in her trust in God and in the courage and strength of her people, I will, therefore, be faithful in my religious duties and will maintain a personal sense of honor in my own life. I will treasure my American heritage and will do all I can to preserve and enrich it. I will recognize the dignity and worth of my fellowmen and will use fair play and goodwill in dealing with them. I will acquire the Exploring attitude that seeks the truth in all things and adventure on the frontiers of our changing world. From the Chief Scout Executive . . . Welcome to leadership in the Boy Scouts of America. By becoming a Scoutmaster or assistant Scoutmaster, you are setting out on a tremendously important and rewarding endeavor—helping Scouts make the most of their lives. Young people today are looking for adults willing to be good listeners and good role models. They want to be around trusted leaders who can teach them and who can share with them the grand adventure of Scouting. You can be that kind of leader. You can provide young people with understanding, guidance, and encouragement during some of their most critical years of growth. Your willingness to be a Scout leader tells me you already have plenty of enthusiasm and dedication. . . . You are also a member of a great organization that includes tens of thousands of other adult leaders, interested parents, and the BSA’s professional staff. All of us are eager to share with you the support, training, and materials you can use to be an effective leader. From the Chief Scot Executive to the newest assistant Scoutmaster, we all share the joy of working with young people. Whether you are an old hand at Scouting or are just learning the basics of BSA leadership, I am very proud to be standing alongside you. You are making a vital difference in the quality of the Boy Scouts of America, and most importantly, in the lives of young people. Good luck, and may you enjoy great success. Jere D. Radcliffe Chief Scout Executive (reprinted from The Scoutmaster Handbook, 1997) From the Young Men General President of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints Quoting Patricia P. Pinegar, Primary general president, "'One of the best things that happens in . . . Scouting is family involvement. It not only encourages parental involvement, but involves the whole family as well.' "For over 80 years, the Church has enjoyed a strong and positive relationship with Scouting in the United States, Canada, and in many other places around the world. Of course, the Church adopted Scouting in the early part of this century because it embraced values, principles and methods that were supportive of young men and their families. "Today, our relationship with Scouting remains strong and continues to grow because Scouting still embraces the same guiding principles introduced by Lord Robert Baden-Powell all those years ago. Scouting supports young men and their families in a way that few institutions still do." Elder Jack H. Goaslind Quorum of the Seventy Young Men General President Church News, February 24, 1996, Aaronic Priesthood Conference on Scouting DO YOU KNOW? (de volgende onderwerpen komen achtreenvolgend aan bod) THE IMPORTANCE OF SCOUTING ABOUT THE CHURCH-BOY SCOUTS OF AMERICA RELATIONSHIPS WHY SCOUTING IN THE CHURCH? THE IMPACT OF ADULT LEADERS WITH A VISION THE ESSENCE OF SCOUTING FOR THE PRIESTHOOD HOW SCOUTING HELPS THE AARONIC PRIESTHOOD THE CHALLENGE FOR BISHOPRICS THE IMPORTANCE OF CORRELATING OUR YOUTH PROGRAMS THE RESULTS OF SCOUTING THE PURPOSE FOR OUTDOOR ACTIVITIES THE SCOUT LAW AND ITS RELATION TO GOSPEL PRINCIPLES OUR RESPONSIBILITY TO THE YOUTH ADVANTAGES AND VALUE OF THE VARSITY PROGRAM THE SIGNIFICANCE OF EXPLORING IN THE CHURCH WHY EXPLORING IN THE CHURCH WHEN IS THE TIME RIGHT TO ACT? THE WORTH OF A BOY WHAT SHOULD LEADERS DO? WHY AN LDS SCOUT UNIT FOR LDS BOYS? RELATIONSHIP OF STAKE LEADERS TO SCOUT DISTRICTS AND COUNCILS THE LOCAL UNIT BUDGET ALLOWANCE AND GUIDELINES THE IMPORTANCE OF THE AARONIC PRIESTHOOD PLANNING WITH A PURPOSE HOW TO MAKE MY SCOUTING UNIT MORE EFFECTIVE? THE IMPORTANCE OF COUNSEL AND ADVISE THE IMPORTANCE OF SAFETY TRAINING THE IMPORTANCE OF THE YOUTH PROTECTION AND CHILD ABUSE PROGRAMS THE VALUE OF MERIT BADGES AND THE PURPOSE OF RECOGNITION DO YOU KNOW? THE IMPORTANCE OF SCOUTING I submit that if every boy in America would learn the Oath and live by it, this land would grow every more beautiful as the years pass, every more peaceful, ever more law-abiding, ever more respectful, every more reverent. . . . If every boy in America knew and observed the Scout Oath, we would do away with most of the jails and prisons in this country. If each of us would live up to those few words, “On my honor, I will do my best,” whether it be in school, whether it be in our social life, whether it be in our business or professional life, if I will do my very best, success and happiness will be mine. President Gordon B. Hinckley 15th President of the Church Church News, 11 May 1996, page 4 Where Scouting (including Cubbing, Scouting, Varsity and Exploring) is available, please understand that this is not an optional program. Make certain priesthood leaders in your regions understand this. Scouting is no longer on trial. It is an economically, socially, and spiritually sound program. It builds men of character and spirituality and trains them for citizenship and leadership responsibility. Scouting teaches a boy to take care of himself and stand on his own two feet. It is an inspired program for a demanding time. This is that time! I would to God that every boy of Scouting age could have the benefits and blessings of this great program. It is truly a noble program. It is a builder of character not only in the boys but also in the men who provide the leadership. Scouting is an inspired program. I believe Lord Baden-Powell was inspired. . . . I stand before you . . . grateful to the Lord for the great blessing of Scouting in the lives of my own children, in the lives of thousands upon thousands of others. President Ezra Taft Benson 13th President of the Church “How to be an Effective Regional Representative” Regional Representatives Seminar, 31 March 1978 To commit a boy to do his best--to do his duty to God, to his country, to his fellowmen, to true principles, and to himself--is to open avenues of vision and direction for him which can be critically important in his life. A young man who understands and if fully committed to the great principles of the Scout Law has his feet firmly planted on a path that can lead to a happy and constructive life. He will qualify for his own self-respect, and he will very likely form wholesome relationships with others and will establish an honorable family. If he is true to Scouting principles, he will be helped in forming a companionship with his Heavenly Father that will strengthen all the other relationships and aspects of live. President Spencer W. Kimball 12th President of the Church Conference Report, April 1977, pg 50-51 DO YOU KNOW? ABOUT THE CHURCH-BOY SCOUTS OF AMERICA RELATIONSHIPS The Boy Scouts of America and The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints have enjoyed an unprecedented partnership in developing young men. The partnership between the LDS Church and BSA is, to me, a precious one. It is precious because of our organizations and what they embrace in terms of similar basic beliefs--beliefs that include a commitment to religious principles and to strong, traditional family values. The leadership of the Boy Scouts of America recognized that religious principles are the important part of life. When a young man begins to grow in his faith, he will begin to grow from within and thereby be better prepared to make a positive difference in our society. . . . Together Scouting and the Church continue to encourage the growth of family value and of family values. Jere D. Radcliffe Chief Scout Executive, BSA Priesthood Session, LDS General Conference October 2, 1993 (Ensign, November 1993, pg. 46) In this world where some misguided men and women strive to tear down and destroy great movements such as Scouting, I am pleased to stand firm for an organization that teaches duty to God and country, that embraces the Scout Law. Yes, an organization whose motto is “Be prepared” and whose slogan is “Do a good turn daily.” I love the inspired words of President Spencer W. Kimball as he spoke to Church members through out the world: 'The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints affirms the continued support of Scouting and will seek to provide leadership which will help boys keep close to their families and close to the Church as they develop the qualities of citizenship and character and fitness which Scouting represents . . . We've remained strong and firm in our support of this great movement for boys and of the Oath and the Law which are at its center.' (Ensign, May 1977, pg. 36). Tonight we renew that endorsement. President Thomas S. Monson 2nd Counselor in the First Presidency Priesthood Session, LDS General Conference October 2, 1993 (Ensign, November 1993, pg. 47) The thing I appreciate is that BSA in its relationship with the Church has one objective--devoting our energies in a cooperative way to make sure that every young man has the opportunities for growth and meaningful experiences I think the Lord wants him to have. Elder Jack H. Goaslind Young Men General President Church News, February 6, 1993, pg. 6 THE STORY OF SCOUTING IN THE L.D.S CHURCH Compiled by: L.D.S. Relationships Boy Scouts of America 525 Foothill Blvd. Salt lake City, Utah 84113-1198 Phone 1-800-537-5923 1-801-582-6000 The Y.M.M.I.A. was organized June 10, 1875, by Junius F. Wells under the direction of Brigham Young. Its purpose was to provide leisure time activities, particularly along spiritual and cultural lines, for the young men of the Church. Later, athletics were made a prominent part of the program. As news of the organization of the Boy Scouts of England in 1909 and the Boy Scouts of America in 1910 was received by our Church leaders, the Scout idea was investigated by the Athletic Committee of the Y.M.M.I.A., and in the summer of 1911, the Scout movement was officially recognized in this association. Scouting with its spiritual background and ideals, appealed to our Church leaders as an excellent activity program for its boys. Even before that time, some enterprising boy leaders in various parts of the Church had organized troops along lines recommended by the Boy Scouts of America. On November 19, 1911, on motion of President Anthony W. Ivins, then a member of the General Superintendency of the Y.M.M.I.A., the M.I.A. Scouts were officially organized by the General Board. From that time, Scouting moved forward in the Church very rapidly. In the Improvement Era for March 1912, Vol. 15, was printed the first statement of the purposes and plans of the M.I.A. Scout movement. It provided that Scout meetings should be held for thirty minutes immediately preceding or following the regular M.I.A. meeting on Tuesday night. Dr. John H. Taylor, who had previously been appointed Athletic Director of the Y.M.M.I.A., was given definite responsibilities for promoting Scout work in the stakes and wards under the direction of the Athletic Committee which included Lyman B. Martineau, Chairman; Hyrum M. Smith, Oscar A. Kirkham, B.F. Grant, B.S. Hinckley and John H. Taylor. At the June Conference of 1913, on Saturday afternoon, June 7th, a M.I.A. day celebration was held at Wandamere, and the program was devoted entirely to Scout activities. This was the first general Scout gathering in the Church. The first lessons for the M.I.A. Scouts were published in the Improvement Era for January 1913, volume 16. Twelve (12) lessons were including covering such subjects as the Fundamentals of Scouting, Organization, Leadership, etc., tying of knots, troop drilling—following United States Infantry regulations for the purpose of obtaining discipline and efficiency in moving the troop as a body—bandaging and First Aid, the Story of the Flag, physical development, stars, compass, etc. May, 1913, the M.I.A. Scouts, upon invitation from the National Council, affiliated with and became a part of the Boy Scouts of America. The official action of the Executive Board of the National Council was taken May 2, 1913, at which time the General Board of Y.M.M.I.A. issued a charter covering the entire Church, and Dr. John H. Taylor was given a special commission as representative of the National Council in charge of all M.I.A. Scouts. At the same time, Oscar A. Kirkham was made Deputy Commissioner. The national Charter of the M.I.A. Scouts of the Boy Scouts of America was issued May 21, 1913, which becomes the official date of entry of the M.I.A. Scouts into the National Organization. This arrangement continued until 1919, when local councils were organized in Salt Lake City and other sections. Oscar A. Kirkham becoming the first Scout Executive of the Salt Lake Council, and later, Associate Regional Executive of the Twelfth Region which included Utah, Arizona, Nevada, and California. He also became affiliated with the Regional Office of Region Eleven in order that he might have contact with L.D.S. Scouts, particularly in Idaho. There are approximately 24,000 Boy Scouts in the Church in 1934, which included 7,000 Vanguards who were Senior Scouts. The Vanguard movement was inaugurated in 1928 and is now developing rapidly into an aggressive Older Boy Movement among the scouts of the Church. It has been approved by the National Council of the Boy Scouts of America. L.D.S. Scouting is now organized in stakes and missions throughout the Church. Scouting continued under Y.M.M.I.A., its sole sponsor, until 1928. During this year, it was named as the activity program for the Deacons and Teachers of the Aaronic Priesthood of the Church through the Y.M.M.I.A. as an auxiliary and aid to the priesthood. “The Y.M.M.I.A. is the priesthood functioning in the field of activity. Scouting, therefore, is the activity program for Deacons and Teachers in the Church and is the program for the junior departments of the Y.M.M.I.A. “The Scoutmaster and Assistant Scoutmasters are officers in the Ward Mutual Improvement Association. They should conduct themselves as such and be subject to the rules, regulations and program of the M.I.A. On the other hand, the ward officers of M.I.A. should know that the Scout Troops and Scout Leaders of the ward are a part of the M.I.A. program and should be considered as such. “The Scout Department is just as much a part of the M.I.A. organization as the “M” Men and should be so considered by ward officers. The responsibility of the Scout and Vanguard departments is theirs. “In the stake, the same relationships and responsibilities are maintained. The district commissioners are stake officers, and Scouting is the official department program for young men 12 to 16 years inclusive. “As a result of the development of a plan of closer cooperation between Aaronic Priesthood chairmen and supervisors and Scout leaders in the M.I.A., many of the wards of the Church have succeeded in registering every available boy and young man in the ward in Scouting.” (1935 Statement on Scouting) In the early 1950’s, the Exploring Program of the Boy Scouts of America was adopted as an activity extension for the Priest Quorum and now, completed the full Scouting program in synchronization with the Aaronic Priesthood—-that is Scouting for the Deacon’s Quorum, Vanguard for the Teachers and Exploring for the Priests. In May 1952 Cub Scouting was officially adopted by the Church. The First Presidency called on the Primary to administer Scouting for boys under 12 years of age. In 1949, the age of entry into the Boy Scout program was lowered to age eight (8) for the Cub Scouts and 11 for Boy Scouts. Primary is responsible for the Blazer “11 year-old” patrol. In 1959, the new Exploring Program was organized with Explorer Specialty Program by the Boy Scouts of America. Under the direction of the Presiding Bishopric who now directed the Scouting Program for the Church, the Blazer Patrol was established for 11 year-olds. The direction of the Blazer Patrol remained with the Primary. In the 1960’s, the “Mormon” Relationships Conference at Philmont was established under the direction of the Director of “Mormon” Relationships. These conferences were established to train stake presidents with information on the operation of Scouting as an extension or activity arm of the Aaronic Priesthood. In the 1970’s, the Scouting program was transferred from the Presiding Bishopric to the Young Men’s Presidency which operated under the direction of the Quorum of the Twelve, with the Young Men’s President and two counselors supervising the Aaronic Priesthood and the Scouting Program. In 1972, the Varsity Scout Program was developed to provide needed experiences for the 14 and 15 year-old young men. Emphasis is placed on each youth and leader earning Varsity letters by achieving in five program areas. Opportunity for extended priesthood leadership is also made available. The L.D.S. Church sponsors more Scout units than any other organization affiliated with the Boy Scouts of America. In December 1990, there were 24,560 Cub Packs, Scout Troops, Varsity Teams, and Explorer Posts charted by the Boy Scouts of America to wards and branches of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, with 342,156 youth, the second largest youth members of any affiliated or any chartered partner of the Boy Scouts of America, the first being the public school, in which 746,000 are high school students registered as members of Career Awareness and Exploring. It is interesting to note that in the Boy Scouts of America, less than two percent (2%) of the boys who join Scouting achieve the Eagle Badge, while in the Church, over six percent (6%) of the youth who join Scouting obtain their Eagle Badge. Another interesting note is that 94% of the Eagle Scouts in the Church go on missions. Religious awards provided by the Church in recognition of the youth members involved in Scouting include: Faith in God Award for Cub Scouting, On My Honor for Boy Scouting, and On My Honor Adult Recognition Award for adults involved in Scouting in the Aaronic Priesthood and Primary. The Church also provides a Duty to God Award (not a Scouting award) for continuous service of Aaronic Priesthood youth members acquiring a four (4) year period of activity. The Young Men Presidency serve, along with the primary Presidency and the Director of L.D.S. Relationships, Boy Scouts of America, as the Church General Scouting Committee. All functions relating to Scouting and its support, organization, changes and program considerations are reviewed by the Church General Scouting Committee. DO YOU KNOW? WHY SCOUTING IN THE CHURCH? From President Heber J. Grant, President of the Church “I am very happy to give the Boy Scout movement my full endorsement. For many years as acting Superintendent of the Young Men’s Mutual Improvement Association, I was active in the promotion of this program. I feel that thousands of our boys have been helped in becoming good men by living up to the principles of the Boy Scout movement. “It is a real satisfaction to me to know that through the cooperation of our general, stake and ward officers we have more Boy Scouts per capita than any other church in the United States. “I hope that our Scout leaders will remember that it is our privilege and obligation, in connection with the promotion of this program, to see that our boys receive also proper religious training in order that they may become real American Citizens.” (Messages of the First Presidency by James R. Clark, Vol. 5, page 343-344) From President Gordon B. Hinckley, 14th President of the Church “As I shook hands with the Salt Lake City police chief Reuben Ortega, I thought he would have less work to do if there were more Scouting going on among the young men of this area. We wouldn’t have the kind of gang problems we have if there were more boys enrolled in Scouting because the spirit of Scouting and the spirit of gang life are contradictory one to another. “This program builds boys, builds their future, leads them on the right track so they can make something of their lives, whereas the other kind of behavior just leads to tragedy and difficulty and problems unnumbered. Every man or woman who helps a boy along the road of life not only does a great thing for him, but does a great thing for society as a whole.” (Church News, 11 May 1996, page 4) From President Ezra Taft Benson, 12th President of the Church “Why have we adopted Scouting? We were the first religious body to adopt Scouting as a part of the youth program of the Church. Some two and one-half years after Scouting came to America, it was made an official part of the program of the Church.” (“Scouting: A Great American Partnership,” Improvement Era, February 1964, pg. 103) “The Scouting program is not a substitute for the Aaronic Priesthood program. The most important possession that a boy can have is the Aaronic Priesthood. Scouting is a supplementary, a complementary program. It works hand in hand with the program of the Primary, Sunday School, and Aaronic Priesthood, and is an important and visable part of our program for our boys.” (Conference Report, April 1951, Improvement Era, June 1951, page 423) “Someone has said that it isn’t mentioned in the revelations given to the Prophet Joseph Smith, and of course that is true. Neither is the Primary or the Sunday School, but one of our Articles of Faith clearly indicates that ‘if there is anything virtuous, lovely or of good report or praiseworthy, we seek after these things’ (Article of Faith 13). Scouting is a help. It is a tool to achieving the objective of the building of real men. It helps to build character. It trains for citizenship. It helps to build leadership. It helps to prepare people to live in a wholesome manner, in a full and enjoyable manner here in this life, and prepares them for the life to come.” (Eagle Recognition Banquet, Logan, Utah, 22 March 1974) “I don’t know of any program in America for boys that is more universally approved than is Scouting. Men of prominence in business, professional life, and in government and other activities are making contributions from time to time--big gifts of various kinds--because they want to make a contribution to the future of this country and there is no better way to do it than to invest something in boys. “When you help a boy, a satisfied feeling takes hold of you. It never leaves and this is why--you have helped a boy on his way to manhood, honorable manhood, and you have enriched your own life in the process. “Whether one studies the Scout oath, the Scout law, the Scout motto, or the Scout slogan, they all add up to America’s finest character-building program. How fortunate are those who may participate in it and have their lives enriched thereby--boys and men alike. They with whom Scouting is concerned are made of eternal stuff; theirs is a divine destine. Godlike men, men of character, men of truth, men of courage, men of goodwill--there, then is our duty to country, and that, too is basically spiritual.” (Eagle Recognition Banquet, Logan Utah, 22 March 1974) “Our common purpose in Scouting is to help prepare our boys to be worthy trustees, to help them fit themselves for the responsibilities of the future. The youth of this land . . . are the trustees of posterity; the future of our country will soon rest in their hands. (So Shall Ye Reap, page 135-136) “A Latter-day Saint boy who is living the Boy Scout oath would never break the Word of Wisdom, as we know it. He would keep himself morally clean. He would not take into his body those things that destroy and weaken it. The Scout motto is ‘Be prepared.’ Be prepared for any emergency. Be prepared to meet the temptations of evil in the world and resist them. Be prepared for any eventuality. That is emphasized in the Scout law, to say nothing of the other laws--glorious principles, religious, spiritual principles--all of them embodied in the Gospel of the Master.” (Eagle Recognition Banquet, Logan Utah, 22 March 1974) “Unselfish, willing service is emphasized in the Boy Scout program and is symbolized in the great motto--’Do a good turn daily.’ I dare to say that the average Boy Scout does man good turns daily.” (Eagle Recognition Banquet, Logan Utah, 22 March 1974) “Scouting emphasized duty to God, reverence for sacred things, observance of the Sabbath, maintenance of the standards of the church with which the boy is affiliated. As each boy repeats that pledge, usually at every Scout meeting or function, he says aloud in the presence of those whose friendship he values most highly, ‘On my honor, I will do my best to do my duty to good.’ It cannot help but make a deep and lasting impression upon him. It becomes the foundation upon which a noble character is build.” (So Shall Ye Reap, pg. 138-139). “Religious emphasis is a part of Scouting. All would agree that the most important statement in Scouting is the Scout oath, and the first principle enunciated in it is ‘duty to God’> To implement this great principle, the Boy Scouts of American has urged the churches of American to design awards and establish requirements for their achievement, to recognize Scouts and Explorers when they have done their duty to God and have been faithful in their religious duties. This has been done by the churches and synagogues and has become a cornerstone among the great blessings of Scouting.” (“Scouting: A Great American Partnership,” Improvement Era, February 1964, page 103) ”Scouting helps to prepare a boy for honorable fatherhood. It helps to prepare a boy to head up a home. It helps to prepare him to take his place in life, in any profession or business or any occupation that is worthy. Yes, it does more than that. It brings to him personally a satisfaction, a feeling of confidence and assurance because he is basing his life on the fundamental principles of righteousness It helps him to live the full life. So it isn’t any wonder that men and women everywhere--good people everywhere--support the Boy Scout program.” (Eagle Recognition Banquet, Logan Utah, 22 March 1974) “Scouting helps prepare boys for Church responsiblity. If this were not true, we would drop the program tomorrow, because we want these boys to become better men and boys and honor their priesthood and to be faithful members of the Church and kingdom of God. Scouting will help them do taht and so it isn’t any wonder that President Heber J. Grant at one time said, ‘It is my desire to see Scouting extended to every boy in the Church.’ Pjresident David O McKay said, “Scouting is not an optional program. It is part of the offical program for boys in the Church. We desire every Mormon boy to have the benefit and blessing of Scouting.” (Eagle Recognition Banquet, Logan Utah, 22 March 1974) “Scouting stresses service to others. This has a spiritual base. The Scout pledges to help other people at all times. Was it not the Master who said, ‘Whosoever will be chief among you, let him be your servant?’ (Matthew 20:27) The slogan ‘Do a good turn daily’ has become emblazoned upon American living beyond its place of origin in the Boy Scout movement.” (So Shall Ye Reap, page 139) “The Scout’s respect and live for learning is embodied in his being mentally awake. One who is hungering and thirsting after knowledge will not fail to gain a preeminent place of leadership among his fellowmen. An how the world needs sound, straight-thinking, wise leaders.” (Scouting--Builder of Men, Annual Meeting of the National Council, Boy Scouts of America, Washington, D.C., 29 May 1954) Youth need hope, not despair; visions, not clouds; models, not critics; inspired leaders to help them to be honest with themselves. Young people ask for a fair chance to succeed. Let us help provide wholesome challenges and opportunities, and they will complete the job of becoming well-adjusted, useful citizens. (From “Youth--A Savings Bank” in the Scouting Magazine, May-June 1959, page 3, quoted in Teachings of Ezra Taft Benson, page 564) DO YOU KNOW? THE IMPACT OF ADULT LEADERS WITH A VISION As you know, we are vitally concerned about our youth and feel that with the proper attention we can save many more than we are doing at the present time. . . . I am convinced that Scouting is a might activity arm to hold these boys close while they learn to appreciate the honor of holding the priesthood of God. The thing that concerns me, brethren, is that we must have a goal, and that goal must be eternal salvation for every boy. Scouting can help us move along that pathway to eternal life in a glorious way, in making a boy a whole boy, a whole man. But, unless we keep our eye on the goal, we are not achieving what is expected of us . . . If we do all else and lost the young man, we have failed in our sacred stewardship . . . We must not allow a separation of priesthood, Scouting, or athletics. I hope our bishops will call mature men to these positions and let them serve for a few years . . . If I were a bishop, I would no more consider not having a (Varsity) team or (Explorer) Post that I would think of not having a teachers quorum or a priest quorum . . . Every phase of the Scouting program should help young men and their leaders understand that Scouting activities are carried out to accomplish priesthood purposes. Elder Robert L. Backman Former Young Men General President Where I have seen weak Scouting, it was the result of weak leadership, not a weak program. Elder Robert L. Simpson Member of the Seventy and Formerly of the Presiding Bishopric It is not for us to moan about juvenile delinquency and other problems of our youth. let us rather use all possible time and enery to tryuing to help youth--through Scouting, 4-H Clubs, the Future Farmers of American, church, school, and community organizations. Youth need inspired leaders to help them to be honest with themselves; to guide youth safely along life’s pathway. President Ezra Taft Benson 13th President of the Church God, Family and Country, page 214-215 DO YOU KNOW? THE ESSENCE OF SCOUTING FOR THE PRIESTHOOD When a boy is baptized and confirmed and has been given the promise of the gift of the Comforter and later is ordained to the Aaronic Priesthood and granted the power and authority of that priesthood, a door is unlocked which, if opened by him, will provide special blessings not otherwise available to any boy unless so favored. But, there is more than having someone with authority unlock the door. The boy must help open the door at the special opportunity for spiritual development thus provided. Scouting added to the Aaronic Priesthood helps a boy open the door. The essence of the purpose in blending Scouting into the Aaronic Priesthood is to help the priesthood leader find and create those teaching moments which will provide a major opportunity for spiritual development. Personal honor is a key to spiritual development. Every priesthood-Scout leader must clearly understand that his major Scout leadership function is to help a boy experience the building of personal honor. All else in Scouting is only supportive of this effort. Scouting encourages a boy to exercise personal honor through accepting personal responsibility for one's actions. Through the Scout Promise and Law, it asks for a personal commitment to establish for one's self an internalized accounting book to which only he can answer. The Deacon, Teacher, and Priest learns to understand that in being a Scout, personal honor is a standard of behavior that is "me" under all circumstances or conditions and irrespective of whom "my" mates are. It is "my" pact with "me" and "my" proofs that "I" know that "I" am a son of God, and it is "my" method of inviting HIM to be proud of me. Duty to God, to others, country and to self and obeying the Scout Law are basic entrees in his self-internalized account book. To take personal pride in following these guidelines and to be trusted by others to do so is a foremost step in obtaining power in the priesthood and the promise of the gift of the Comforter. LDS RELATIONSHIPS BOY SCOUTS OF AMERICA 11/1/89 DO YOU KNOW? HOW SCOUTING HELPS THE AARONIC PRIESTHOOD Boys are doers! Most will not hold in high regard a priesthood program which features mostly sitting and listening and the presentation of lesson materials in sedentary settings. As church administrators, we often find that for adults, sitting and listening about the Gospel and the study and discussion of it is very acceptable and easy to manage. Unfortunately, we are tempted to use the same methods and often do with boys, usually with poorer results. Our seminaries who use highly trained and skilled teachers have the best success with this type of effort; but even with their expertise, we still have the less than desired performance from a large percentage of our young men still before us. We, therefore, have good reason to add SCOUTING to the programs of the quorums if we see the priesthood as more than a special authority to be exercised on Sunday, and the quorum to be more than a peer group which meets only for special Sunday performances. If we have many or only a few boys in a ward or branch, the doing of adventuresome things together helps magnify a boy's interest in his quorum and his priesthood. The doing of boy interest activities is a major feature of Scouting, and when added to the quorum's program, the quorum advisor catches the vision of what his role can and should be. But he should know that it is more than an adventuresome activity. It can become, if the quorum leader is trained in Scouting, a design for the purposeful practice of Gospel principles. The ideals of Scouting, its promise and law, become boy world challenges for worthy personal behavior befitting a young bearer of the priesthood. It should not be surprising if some Bishops feel reluctant to add Scouting to their administrative load. Some, not having had experience with the true functions of Scouting, may readily respond only through the persuasive direction and encouragement of the Stake President and his staff. If Bishops understand that Scouting is not so much an addition, but an integration and an enrichment of Aaronic Priesthood activity which uses the same in?place adults, meetings which are often already scheduled and administrative people ready to perform then its purposes and implementation become more inviting. More attention to boy interests, boy values, and boy oriented adult leadership becomes the major shift in the attention which the Bishop will give to his calling through the introduction of Scouting in his ward. Given a reluctant Bishop, encouragement best come to him if he chooses to begin with the Cubs where our great ladies can become involved. They usually go full speed ahead and do wonders with this program. Then, when Cubbing is functioning, adult quorum leaders find it necessary to get cracking with Scouting and admit glaring deficiencies in their youth efforts. Finally, to take the advantage that Scouting offers to build the image of Gospel and the Church within the community and among them of the Scouting movement is a great opportunity. Stake Presidents may nominate stake personnel to become registered and trained by the Scout District as authoritative Scouters. These stake leaders than may act as authorities of Scouting and the Stake as they work to improve the performance of priesthood-Scout groups in each ward. LDS RELATIONSHIPS BOY SCOUTS OF AMERICA 11/1/89 DO YOU KNOW? THE CHALLENGE FOR BISHOPRICS “Scouting is Church work. . . . Better Scouting makes better priesthood activities. I would like to say just this regarding the selection of men to serve in Scouting. Be sure that you select the best boys’ man. All of us are not gifted in that direction. President Grant said, at one time, ‘If the best man in your ward for Scoutmaster is the bishop, then release the bishop and make him Scoutmaster.” Now President Grant wasn’t advocating the wholesale release of bishops, but he was emphasizing the fact that some men are gifted to lead boys. Sometimes I think there are fewer of that type of men than there are men qualified for some other positions in the Church.” President Ezra Taft Benson 13th President of the Church Eagle Recognition Banquet Logan Utah, 22 March 1974 If we have the right kind of leadership through real boys’ men, they will have it, enjoy it, and receive the blessings which come from the program. The responsibility rests with the priesthood--stake presidencies and bishoprics--to see that this leadership is provided and that every boy is reached. President Ezra Taft Benson Conference Report, April 1951 Improvement Era, June 1951, page 423 I think we need to awaken the bishoprics to the primary responsibility that is theirs to their young men and young women. Everything in the ward tends to go well if things with their youth are going well. Bishoprics should regularly interview their young people. Sunday evening discussions, as outlined in the handbooks, can be a time to visit with their youth to understand their concerns and give them inspired counsel. And when calling Scouting and other youth leaders, emphasis should be placed on calling those who are 'morally straight'. Exemplary leadership is expected and demanded of one who serves with young men and young women in the Church. Priesthood leaders are responsible to call qualified leaders to work with boys so they are not disappointed by a bad example, which lowers their sights. We encourage that those called are outstanding leaders who love the young men and like being with them. Elder Jack H. Goaslind Young Men General President I hope you will realize, brethren, that in doing Scout work you are doing Church work. It is just as important Church work as if you were in some other division of the Church programs. Elder Mark E. Peterson,Council of the Twelve Apostles “Ward bishoprics, quorum advisors, and quorum presidencies are to create for young men opportunities for spiritual experiences, friendship, and brotherhood, and while doing this the boy should have the benefits of Scouting, achievement, recreation, culture, the arts, and fun. But I stress that saving the souls of young men will take much more than fun and activities. It takes work, sacrifice, carefully planned spiritual experiences, character-building experiences, and work experiences. In addition, it takes leadership example by men committed to teach, train, and inspire young men to reach beyond where they are so they may realize greater achievement. We are now moving into an era when we need to have young men with strong spiritual strength who will stand up and teach with conviction the principles of the gospel. This will come about through a righteous home environment and activities in the quorum, including Scouting, which will build character. Boys should be engaged in service projects, work projects, and experiences where they may learn the principles of sacrifice and work. Also, they should understand the value and proper use of money. This will help prepare these young men for their foreordained responsibilities in the kingdom (“Challenges for Leaders of Aaronic Priesthood,” Young Men’s General Presidency and Board, Salt Lake City, Utah, 19 Sept 1979)” Teachings of Ezra Taft Benson, pg. 220 - 221 “The bishop’s most positive impact on youth comes in informal settings, activities, Scouting, service projects, athletics--real-life settings where they get to know him as a man. “Note that the Lord called the bishop to personally serve as president of the priests quorum. By virtue of that presidency, the bishop holds the keys of that office, which may not be delegated to another. The Lord requires that the bishop become the friend of each priest, that he be sensitive to personal and group needs at all times, that there be a feeling of brother hood and fellowship between him and his priests. No priest should ever go astray if the bishop, thorough the exercise of his keys of presidency, helped him hold on to the doctrines and practices of the Church. “Considering the many interests, skills, and personalities of our young men, it is imperative that you use all the resources available to reach every boy. “Among those resources, Scouting provides a tested, proven program for us to use in holding our young men close to the Church. It appeals to boys. Its trail to the Eagle rank helps a young man set worthwhile goals, then realize them. For some reason there is a direct correlation between young men who achieve the Eagle rank and those who serve missions.” Elder Robert L. Backman Former Young Men General President (http://www.gemstate.net/scouter/ldsplus.htm) DO YOU KNOW? THE IMPORTANCE OF CORRELATING OUR YOUTH PROGRAMS The Scouting program is a great asset to the Church's effort to combat immorality, drug use and the breakdown of the family. There's no doubt in my mind that the temptations facing youth today are greater than they have ever been. The breakdown of the family has, in many respects, left a need for Scouting to fill a void more so than it has ever done. I like the way the Church has coordinated and fully correlated the activities of the young men with the instruction we provide in the Aaronic Priesthood. We don't have a Scoutmaster competing against a deacons quorum advisor, or a priests' quorum advisor competing against the Explorer post leader because we have blended them so that it's one boy and one troop, one Church, and one program. They serve together; they work together. Every program I've seen from Scouting complements the objectives we are attempting to achieve in the lives of our young men, primarily helping them strive for exaltation. President Thomas S. Monson 2nd Counselor in the First Presidency Church News, February 2, 1990 Scouting should not be a separate activity from quorum work. All activities should be carried out under the direction of the quorum presidency. The quorum presidency should meet with advisors and the bishopric and plan in advance quorum programs and activities to meet the needs of the young men. Just as athletics, services projects, or other programs are part of the quorum, so is Scouting. Yet, Scouting must not preempt the priesthood work of a quorum. The two should function together. President Ezra Taft Benson 13th President of the Church Challenges for Leaders of Aaronic Priesthood Young Men’s General Presidency and Board 19 Sept 1979 The Aaronic Priesthood prepares boys for manhood and the weightier duties of the Melchizedek Priesthood. Scouting helps our boys to walk uprightly the priesthood path to exaltation. Along that path there will be turns and detours, requiring decisions of utmost importance. Heavenly inspiration will provide a road map that will ensure the accuracy of our choices. There comes a time in the life of every young man for serious contemplation and wise evaluation concerning his future--for decisions determine destiny. President Thomas S. Monson 1st Councilor, First Presidency General Conference, October 1993 DO YOU KNOW? THE RESULTS OF SCOUTING For every 100 boys who join a Boy Scout troop, Twelve will have their first contact with a church or synagogue. Five will earn their religious emblem. Eighteen will develop hobbies that will last through their adult life. Eight will enter a career that was learned through the merit badge system. One will use his Boy Scout skills to save a life. One will use his Boy Scout skills to save his own life. Seventeen will become Scouting volunteers Two will become Eagle Scouts National Boy Scouts of America Special Notation: 6% of the Scouts in the Church become Eagle Scouts. 94% of Eagle Scouts in the Church go on missions. Many years ago I had a long conversation as a leader with Judge Rulon Clark, who was known throughout the country as a long-time serving and a wonderful and effective judge in the Juvenile Court of Salt Lake City. I remember one great statement he made to me” ‘In all my years presiding in Juvenile Court, I’ve observed that 96 percent of all the boys who have stood before me after having committed a crime had no experience in Scouting.’ I believe Scouting to be a great deterrent to crime, and a great builder of boys in an America that needs you. President Thomas S. Monson First Councilor in the First Presidency Member of the National Executive Board, BSA Church News, 28 Sept 1996, pg. 6, 10 Scouting provides a tested, proven program for us to use in holding our young men close to the Church. It appeals to boys. Its trail to the Eagle rank helps a young man set worthwhile goals, then realize them. For some reason there is a direct correlation between young men who achieve the Eagle rank and those who serve missions. Elder Robert L. Backman, Former Young Men General President DO YOU KNOW? THE PURPOSE FOR OUTDOOR ACTIVITIES And each camp, rough and tumble as it may be, is an opportunity for boys to have the privilege to get closer to God and to recognize in the beautiful skies the creations of our Heavenly Father. President Thomas S. Monson 2nd Counselor in the First Presidency Church News, March 9, 1991, page 12 Scouting furnishes a most salutary outlet for may of the normal instincts and urges in adolescent youth. Its whole program is wholesome -- in the open, literally and figuratively. Perhaps its most appealing aspect to me is the emphasis placed on character and spirituality. President Stephen L. Richards Former Counselor in the First Presidency We are concerned, brethren, with our need to provide continually significant opportunities for our young men to stretch their souls in service. Young men do not usually become inactive in the Church because they are given too many significant things to do. . . . . President Spencer W. Kimball 12th President of the Church Ensign, May 1977, pg. 45 DO YOU KNOW? THE SCOUT LAW AND ITS RELATION TO GOSPEL PRINCIPLES A Scout is: TRUSTWORTHY. A Scout's honor is to be trusted. If he were to violate his honor by telling a lie or by cheating or by not doing exactly a given task, when trusted on his honor, he may be directed to hand over his Scout badge. (Exodus 20:13) LOYAL. He is loyal to all to whom loyalty is due, his Scout leader, his home and parents and country. (Luke 16:10) HELPFUL. He must be prepared at any time to save life, help injured persons, and share the home duties. He must do at least one good turn to somebody every day. (Lev. 19:18; Deut. 15:11) FRIENDLY. He is a friend to all and a brother to every other Scout. (Romans 12:10; Psalms 133) COURTEOUS. He is polite to all, especially to women, children, old people, the weak and the helpless. He must not take pay for being helpful or courteous. (Ephesians 4:29) KIND. He is a friend to animals. He will not kill or hurt any living creature needlessly, but will strive to save and protect all harmless life. (Proverbs 12:10) OBEDIENT. He obeys his parents, Scoutmaster, patrol leader, and all other duly constituted authorities. (Ephesians 6:1-3) CHEERFUL. He smiles whenever he can. His obedience to orders is prompt and cheery. He never shirks nor grumbles at hardships. (Proverbs 15:13) THRIFTY. He does not wantonly destroy property. He works faithfully, wastes nothing, and makes the best use of his opportunities. He saves his money so that he may pay his own way, be generous to those in need, and helpful to worthy objects. He may work for pay, but must not receive tips for courtesies or Good Turns. (Proverbs 6:6) BRAVE. He has the courage to face danger in spite of fear and to stand up for the right against the coaxings of friends or the jeers or threats of enemies, and defeat does not discourage him. (Deut. 31:6). CLEAN. He keeps clean in body and thought; stands for clean speech, clean habits; and travels with a clean crowd. (Psalms 24:3) REVERENT. He is reverent toward God. He is faithful in his religious duties and respects the convictions of others in matters of custom and religion. (Mark 12:30) DO YOU KNOW? OUR RESPONSIBILITY TO THE YOUTH Each member will find that happiness in this world mainly depends on the work he does, and the way in which he does it. It now becomes the duty of these institutions (Church auxiliaries) to aid the holy priesthood in instructing the youth of Israel in all things commendable and worthy of the acceptance of saints of the Most High God. President Brigham Young 2nd President of the Church Comprehensive History of the Church, Volume 5, pg. 480-481 I would to God that every boy of Boy Scout age in America could have the benefits and the blessings of the great Boy Scout program. It is truly a noble program; it is a builder of character, not only in the boys, but also in the men who provide the leadership. I have often said that Scouting is essentially a spiritual program, a builder of men. It is established, as is our government and its Constitution, upon a deeply spiritual foundation (So Shall Ye Reap, pg. 138). President Ezra Taft Benson 13th President of the Church Teachings of President Ezra Taft Benson, page 235 - 240 ADVANTAGES AND VALUE OF THE VARSITY PROGRAM FOR THE CHURCH OF JESUS CHRIST OF LATTER?DAY SAINTS ** Provides an activity program for Teacher?age boys that meets their desires and needs and serves to keep them close to the Church and active in their priesthood quorum. ** Encourages Teachers achieve the Eagle Rank and acquire the Eagle Scout attributes and characteristics. Sixty?five percent of Eagle Awards in the Church are to Varsity Scouts. ** Contains many features which are identical to, conforms to, and supports the Aaronic Priesthood concepts and operating principles, such as: A. Encourages the concept of honoring the dignity and worth of all persons, acceptance and respect for honest work, adherence to the principles of free agency and liberty as basic principles and ideals and pledges to live by the Scout Oath, Law, Motto and Slogan (all fundamentally supporting the principles of the Gospel). B. Permits wards/branches (sponsoring institutions) to utilize the program to achieve its own purposes and adapt program features to accomplish its own aims and purposes related to young men and their families. C. Gives the Teachers' Quorum President the opportunity and responsibility to exercise real stewardship over the personal growth and development, religious and spiritual activity, maintenance of standards and fellowshipping of each member of the Teachers' Quorum. D. Permits and encourages each participant to gain leadership skills and experience and provides jobs in which he can practice his leadership. E. Permits adult leaders to exercise inspiration and revelation in calling youth leaders for leadership roles (team captain, co?captain), subject to the approval or sustaining vote of the group membership. F. Permits and encourages maximum youth input, decision making and initiative relative to their own program. G. Stresses spiritual development and spiritual activities. H. Keeps youth constantly involved in service projects. I. Minimizes activities and experiences involving girls of this age. J. Utilizes coaching concepts and techniques for adult leaders of this age group. K. Utilizes Church members and leaders (i.e., team committees) for training at roundtables, seminars, and for supporting, planning, organizing, and scheduling the activities selected, desired, and planned by the youth. L. Utilizes the Aaronic Priesthood Activity Manual as a rich source of activities. DO YOU KNOW? THE SIGNIFICANCE OF EXPLORING IN THE CHURCH You won't find a better orientation for future job considerations, professional pursuits and helping a young man determine what he wants to be and do when he grows up than the Explorer program of the Boy Scouts of America. President Thomas S. Monson 2nd Counselor in the First Presidency Church News, February 6, 1993,page 7 Exploring in the Church is a valuable tool for furthering Aaronic Priesthood purposes that is seldom used to its potential. K. Hart Bullock Director of LDS Relationships Boy Scouts of America Church News, February 6, 1993, page 7 Exploring is much more than dribbling a basketball; it's designed to meet the needs of the priest-age young man while achieving the purposes of the Aaronic Priesthood. If properly used under trained, mature leadership, Exploring can enhance a young man's preparation for a full-time mission and for his future vocational life. Elder Jack H. Goaslind Quorum of the Seventy Young Men General President Church News, February 6, 1993, page 7 DO YOU KNOW? WHY EXPLORING IN THE CHURCH A program to be accepted by young men must meet their needs and desires. Priest age young men have physical, biological, emotional and spiritual needs. We perceive that they have some needs of which they may not be aware. Those who help with the programming for this age group must try to identify and understand the needs and desires of these men. We have humbly tried to identify some of the needs for priest age young men. They are not necessarily in order of their importance. 1. Young men need to have a firm belief in their Father in Heaven. They need to develop a love for the Savior and demonstrate and understand their relationship to Him observing His teachings and keeping his commandments. The vehicle through which they relate to and serve God and the Savior is the Church and, within the Church, the priesthood. 2. Young men need to know that they are wanted and loved by parents and other members of their family. They need to have a rightful place in the family. They need support from family members, and they must have a feeling of love and mutual trust within the family. 3. Young men need a close relationship with mature adults, in addition to father and mother. They need to associate with worthy adults in whom they can confide and from who they can seek counsel and advice. They need models after which they may pattern their lives, and they need heroes to worship. 4. Young men need to be recognized and to be accepted by their peers. They need good friends with who to associate, friends with whom they can do things, friends with whom to talk, and friends who will listen, friends who believe as they do and live the same standards. 5. Young men need to develop a love for their country, a respect for their flag, and a willingness to serve their country. They need to be active, participating citizens. 6. Young men need to learn to honor and respect womanhood. They need to learn to associate with young women of their own age. 7. Young men need to learn the value of work. They need to accept the fact that work can be physical or mental; that all honest work is honorable; and that it takes work and effort to succeed in one's profession, occupation, in athletics, or in intellectual pursuits. 8. Young men need to learn and demonstrate the management of money. They need a program of saving which will teach them the value of money. they need to contribute to their own financial needs as early as possible. 9. Young men need to have opportunities to do things in which they can succeed or fail, to know why, and to try again. They need to have the opportunity to contribute to a worthwhile cause, to carry out an assignment, to hold an office, and to receive guidance and support. LDS RELATIONSHIPS BOY SCOUTS OF AMERICA 11/1/89 DO YOU KNOW? WHEN IS THE TIME RIGHT TO ACT? We are concerned, brethren, with our need to provide continually significant opportunities for our young men to stretch their souls in service. Young men do not usually become inactive in the Church because they are given too many significant things to do. . . . We are rearing a royal generation . . . who have special things to do. We need to provide them with special experiences in studying scriptures, in serving their neighbors, and in being contributing and loving members of their family. All of this requires, of course, time for planning and time to implement--anything but the casualness we sometimes see on the part of some fathers and adult leaders. We have reason to believe, brethren, that the impact of the world on our LDS youth is not only greater than it has ever been, but that it comes sooner than it has come in the past. Thus, we must do our work better and sooner. President Spencer W. Kimball 12th President of the Church Conference Report, April 1976, pg. 69 Ensign, May 1976, page 45 To all the Aaronic Priesthood (youth) assembled tonight with your fathers and your leaders, the priesthood program of the Church, with its accompanying activities, including Scouting, will help and not hinder you as you journey through life. President Thomas S. Monson 2nd Counselor in the First Presidency Ensign, November 1993, pg. 50. THE WORTH OF A BOY Someone has asked, "What is a boy worth?" My answer would be: He is worth all that it takes to make of him a good man. No one is too busy -- no one is too good -- no one is too important -- no one is too rich or too poor. There is no such thing as "It takes too much time" or "some other time." Nothing is as important as the time we give to our boys and girls -- our young men and our young women --especially so, if he or she happens to be our own. -- If we fail them now, we stand to lose all else that we hold near and dear to us. Someone has said, "When a boy goes bad, a good man dies." The spirituality of a ward will be commensurate with the activity of the youth in the ward. President David O. McKay 9th President of the Church (italics added) DO YOU KNOW? THE CHALLENGE OF SCOUTING “Our objective in the Scout movement is to give such help as we can in bringing about God’s Kingdom on earth by inculcating among youth the spirit and the daily practice in their lives of unselfish goodwill and cooperation.” (Lord Baden-Powell) Let us get men who are boys’ men; who can appeal to them and inspire them to want to live right; who believe that it is best to be good--not goody-good, but happy, full of life, full of vigor--who want them to play and have a clean, wholesome time in life. It pays to live a good life. Scouting can help to emphasize and impress this fact upon the boys of today, the men of tomorrow, and us as men. Can we ignore such a challenge? Are you so busy and self-centered that you cannot take time out to help build a bridge for that boy? Scouting offers us that challenge. It is a tremendous test of leadership, devotion, and courage. Is that nobility within us going to rise up in majesty and answer the call? (Pres. Benson, God, Family, and Country, pg. 214 - 215) "Scouting is an inspired program for a demanding time." (Pres. Benson) "The spirituality of a ward will be commensurate with the activity of the youth in the ward" (Pres. McKay) "For this is my work and my glory to bring to pass the immortality and eternal life of man." "I hope that if any of God's children are out in spiritual darkness, you will come to them with a lamp and light their way; if they are out in the cold of spiritual bleakness with its frigidity penetrating their bones, you will come to them with your coat and your cloak also; and you will walk miles and miles with them, lifting them, strengthening them, encouraging them, and inspiring them." (President Spencer W. Kimball, Ensign, May 1976, pg. 45) "Now can you see, you Latter?day Saints, how unwise it is for us to disobey counsel, when that counsel is given for the benefit of the whole people?" (Elder George Q. Cannon, General Conference, October 6, 1875) VII. THE PROMISE “Give me a young man who has kept himself morally clean and has faithfully attended his Church meetings. Give me a young man who has magnified his priesthood and has earned the Duty to God Award and is an Eagle Scout. Give me a young man who is a seminary graduate and has a burning testimony of the Book of Mormon. Give me such a young man, and I will give you a young man who can perform miracles for the Lord in the mission field and thought his life. “Young men, take full advantage of the Church programs. Set your goals to attain excellence in the achievement programs of the Church. Earn the Duty to God Award--one of our most significant priesthood awards. Become an Eagle Scout--do not settle for mediocrity in the great Scouting program of the Church.” President Ezra Taft Benson, 13th President of the Church Conference Report, April 1986, Ensign, May 1986, pg. 44 DO YOU KNOW? WHAT SHOULD LEADERS DO? Under priesthood leadership, Scouting can be a testimony-building experience that complements the purposes of the quorum and assists in leading a boy to a meaningful relationship with the Savior. Unless our leaders do one thing more than all of the wonderful things that Scouting is designed to do, we have failed in its use in the Church. That one thing more is strengthening your men in the priesthood by teaching them their responsibilities to themselves, their leaders, the Church and the priesthood. Bishop Victor L. Brown Formerly Presiding Bishop of the Church Some of our boys are not being reached by this program. Some are not being reached by the Aaronic Priesthood program. It is largely a question of leadership. Boys want the Scouting program, we want them to have it, and if we have the right kind of leadership through real boys’ men, they’ll have it, enjoy it, and receive the blessings which come from this program. The responsibility rests with the priesthood--stake presidencies and bishoprics--to see this leadership is provided and that every boy is reached. President Ezra Taft Benson 13th President of the Church Then a Member of the Quorum of the Twelve General Conference, April 1951 DO YOU KNOW? WHAT YOUR YOUTH SHOULD DO TO FIND SUCCESS IN LIFE? In his conference talk in May 1986 General Priesthood Session, President Ezra Taft Benson outlined those things that he believed latter-day Saint young men should do in order to find success in life. They are: · Draw close to your own mother. Honor her. Receive your mother’s counsel as she loves and instructs in righteousness · Honor and obey your father as he stands as the head of the home, emulating his manly qualities · Do everything in your power to strengthen the family unit · Participate in a program of daily reading and pondering of the scriptures · Receive your patriarchal blessings · Attend all of your church meetings · Earn your Duty to God Award – one of our most significant priesthood awards · Become an Eagle Scout – Do not settle for mediocrity in the great Scouting program · Be a seminary graduate · Serve a full-time mission · Marry in the Temple of the Lord President Benson then went on to conclude: “Give me a young man who has kept himself morally clean and has faithfully attended his Church meetings. Give me a young man who has magnified his priesthood and has earned his Duty to God and is an Eagle Scout. . . . Give me such a young man, and I will give you a young man who can perform miracles for the Lord and throughout his life.” (Summarized from 156th Annual General Conference of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, Priesthood Session, Conference Report, May 1986) DO YOU KNOW? WHY AN LDS SCOUT UNIT FOR LDS BOYS? The LDS Church believes that the first part of the Scout Promise is, of all the ideals of Scouting, the most important for LDS boys. "On My Honor I Will Do My Duty to God". This explains why President Kimball has encouraged every boy to gain the Scouting experience and why the Church believes every Church leader who has a responsibility to work with boys of Scout age should be familiar with Scouting and secure as much training as possible Actually, the Church appreciates and is grateful for the effort of any Scout leader who believes in God, regardless of religious preference, who is helping to give to an LDS Boy Scout training. But, it believes that the boy's Akela, Scout, Varsity or Group Leader, if he or she is LDS, can better handle this so important purpose of Scouting. Scout Groups and their leaders may and do interpret differently just what a boy's Duty to God can be. In the LDS faith, for example, here are some distinctive activities which the Church hopes a boy will consider as part of his "Duty to God": Keep the Sabbath Holy -- A boy is pledged to perform special acts of service to others on a Sunday and to worship our Heavenly Father during a period of time on that day. To place loyalty to Dad and Mother first, then to the Church and then to Scouting and to help the whole family to live so they may become an eternal family. To place his Priesthood leader second, and his Scout Leader third, if these two positions are not combined. These men become prime teachers for LDS boys and often serve as surrogate fathers when and if the father and son develop some estrangement. To live free from habit forming and harmful drugs and stimulants. These and other features are part of the "Word of Wisdom" which serves as an important guideline for living which he follows. To see the educational and self-developmental aims of Scouting and to interpret them in ways that will help him become a better missionary (1 1/2) years when he become 19. To choose a marriage companion for eternity, as well as for this life and to live to be married in an LDS Temple. It becomes apparent that a non-LDS Scout Leader finds it difficult to guide and counsel an LDS boy in these "Duty to God" matters and to conduct activities for his group that will fit LDS needs. This, then, is one significant reason why, even though there may be other Open Groups nearby, the LDS Church is anxious to conduct a Sponsored Scout Group for its boys and use its appointed leadership. LDS RELATIONSHIPS BOY SCOUTS OF AMERICA 11/1/89 Excerpts from the Young Men Bulletin, May 1978 RELATIONSHIP OF STAKE LEADERS TO SCOUT DISTRICTS AND COUNCILS Because there are so many options for organizing the Young Men on the stake level, relationships between the stakes of the Church and the Scout council and district organizations vary. However, the following suggestions may help individual stakes work effectively with the Scout council and district organizations. 1. Members of the stake presidency may serve on the Scout Council Executive Board, council Mormon relationships committee, or other council committees when invited to do so by the president of the local Scout council. Volunteering to serve on the council level will encourage this invitation. When invited to serve, members of the stake presidency should register as members of the Council Executive Board or as members of the council at large. 2. A member of the stake Aaronic Priesthood committee (a high councilor) may serve as the district chairman or district committee chairman. Other members of the stake Aaronic Priesthood committee may serve as members of district committees or as district commissioners. Those who so serve should register as members of the district at large. 3. Members of the stake Young Men presidency and, when called, age group advisors may serve on the commissioner's staff, on the roundtable staff, as unit commissioners, or as members of district committees. They should register as members of the district at large. The responsibility for supervising the Church Scouting program on the stake level belongs to the high councilors who make up the stake Aaronic Priesthood committee. The stake Young Men presidency is responsible for correlating the Scouting, Venturing (Varsity), and Exploring programs in the stake and is under the direction of the stake Aaronic Priesthood committee. WARD LEADERS WHO RELATE TO SCOUTING DISTRICTS The counselor in the ward bishopric assigned youth programs should be the Scouting coordinator. The Scouting coordinator is invited to attend the district Scout committee meetings. When he registers with his ward unit as the Scouting coordinator, he automatically becomes an official voting member of the local council and receives mails and publications from the local office. As an official voting member of the local council, he should participate in the annual council business meeting where council officers are elected and the official business of the council is carried out. The Scouting coordinator should remember when he is present, his ward will be represented in Scouting matters. When he is not present, his ward has no voice in Scouting matters in that council. The ward Aaronic Priesthood advisors, Scoutmaster, Venturer (Varsity) advisor, and Explorer advisor should make sure they receive their basic training from district or council training committees and attend the monthly district or council Scout program roundtable and Explorer program conferences, where they will receive help in administering their Scouting program. RELATIONSHIP OF THE AARONIC PRIESTHOOD HANDBOOK AND THE ACTIVITIES HANDBOOK TO THE SCOUTING PROGRAM. The Aaronic Priesthood Quorum Guidebook (replaced by the Aaronic Priesthood Handbook) and the Activity Book are designed to help quorum presidencies and quorum advisors develop more effective activity programs, including Scouting, Venturing (Varsity) and Exploring. These publications can assist priesthood leaders in making sure that every activity accomplishes one or more of the priesthood purposes . . . The year-long activity program . . . is provided to help advisors supplement the program materials they receive from Scout roundtables and Explorer program conferences. EXCEPTS FROM THE CHURCH NEWS REGARDING THE BUDGET PROGRAM "I am thankful that the day has come, at last, when for the Latter-day Saints in the United States and Canada, the payment of honest tithes and generous offering will provide the means for facilities and activities whereby we may worship together, learn together and socialize together for group and individual benefit." (President Gordon B. Hinckley, CN 24 Feb 1990) "President Thomas S. Monson explained that the new Local Unit Budget Allowance Program "is but one of several carefully studied and prayerfully implemented steps taken by the Church to relieve the membership of financial burden' and to "build strong, gospel-centered homes.'" (CN 24 Feb 1990) "The primary responsibility for building testimonies and providing faith-building experiences in our members, including youth, resides in the home. The Church should continue to support the determination of the family to do this. Families vary in size and composition. All are to receive our devoted attention." (President Thomas S. Monson, CN 24 Feb 1990) "Elder Boyd K. Packer called the new budget program a 'course correction' that will 'have the effect of returning much of the responsibility for teaching and counseling and activity to the family, where it belongs." (CN 24 Feb 1990) "The scriptures speak of tithes and offerings, they do not speak of assessment or fund-raising. To be an offering, it must be given freely--it must be offered. The way is open now for many more of us to participate in this spiritually refining experience." (CN 24 Feb 1990). "I remind you that we should recognize that this Church is not a social club. This is the kingdom of God on earth . . . Let us not worry and get all worked up about exotic excursions that now may not be possible. These might provide fun, wonderful fun, and young people, we all agree, need to have some fun under the direction of Church officers and teachers. But these officers and teachers, and these young men and women, are people of ingenuity who with faith and prayer can work out programs costing little in dollars that will yield tremendous dividends in wholesome recreation and faith-building activities. Perhaps we should be less concerned with fun and more with faith." (President Gordon B. Hinckley, CN 24 Feb 1990). "Most of the deciding must be left to you, the members of the Church, acting in harmony with the principles announced in the guidelines. The change will require a considerable adjustment in our thinking. It will not be possible to do all of the things we have been doing in the same way we have been doing them, and it will bring an inevitable reduction in programs. That was intended. There will need to be some 'pick and choose.' Nothing essential will be lost, rather essentials will be rediscovered, be found!" (Elder Boyd K. Packer, CN 24 Feb 1990) "[President Monson] . . . reiterated the principles that govern the budget allowance program: a. The program was created to reduce financial burdens on members. b. Members should not pay fees or be assessed to participate in Church programs. c. Priesthood leaders should reduce and simplify activities wherever it is possible to do so. d. Activities should be planned at little or no cost, should build testimonies and provide meaningful service to others. "He said that the budget allocation provides less than some wards are accustomed to for youth activities, and more for others. 'By and large, it is going to average out rather well. The ingenuity of our people is well known. We can have good activities closer to home. . . . The building of testimonies is not related to financial expenditure. It is not necessary to buy the activity of our youth. "Errantly we have used the term 'Super Activity' to encourage the exotic, rather than the practical. Many units are now planning major youth conferences on a two?year or three-year cycle rather than each year. Some have discovered that through careful scheduling, there are sites and facilities very close to home available for productive youth activities. "In every location there are places of historical significance which can provide a focal point for a successful activity. President Monson said, recounting a trip years ago from Salt Lake City, to the Clarkston Cemetery near Logan, Utah, which involved all the Aaronic Priesthood in President Monson's stake. Youth stood with "rapt attention" at the grave of Martin Harris, one of the three witnesses of the Book of Mormon, and listened to stories of his life. "The value of the Book of Mormon in the mind of each youth soared." A nearby pioneer child's grave was visited, and sacrifice and dedication to truth discussed. "Silent pledges were made," recalled President Monson. "Lessons were learned. Hearts were touched. Thoughts turned to the Master. His presence was close. His gentle invitation, 'Follow me,' was somehow heard and felt. Such experiences were available to all youth and their leaders. The financial cost is minimal. The eternal dividends the yield are enormous." (President Thomas S. Monson, CN, 24 Feb 1990) DO YOU KNOW? THE IMPORTANCE OF THE AARONIC PRIESTHOOD Aaronic Priesthood with its quorum is our focus, but Scouting is a valuable tool, that if used properly, can help young men come to know and love the Savior. The Aaronic Priesthood draws upon several resources, including Scouting, to teach and train our young men. Elder Jack H. Goaslind Young Men General President DO YOU KNOW? ELEMENTS OF AN EFFECTIVE ACTIVITIES PROGRAM The (Young Men General) presidency added that once these types of leaders are called, it is paramount that they be properly trained and then have time to cultivate a relationship with those they lead in order to build a successful program. "Valuable Tool in Bringing Young Men to Christ" Conversation with President Thomas S. Monson & Young Men General President Jack H. Goaslind Church News, February 2, 1991 For the Aaronic Priesthood to go through this discipline of living within the budget that's allocated is more than just a financial process, but also will teach young men in their personal lives that there are some things they can have, and there are some things they want but don't really need. We need to separate needs from wants. I think it's a tremendous thing that the Lord has instigated for our day." Elder Vaughn J. Featherstone Quorum of the Seventy & Formerly Young Men General President If a ward does not have a good, active Scouting program that attracts and helps to hold boys close to the Church, it does not have the total Church program. President N. Eldon Tanner Former 1st Councilor in the First Presidency Scouting is an activity program which has high and lofty principles for developing a young man’s character, good citizenship, strong minds and bodies, and a belief in God. Elder Marion D. Hanks Quorum of the Seventy Scouting is dedicated to a fourfold program: First, it teaches the boy his duty to God--reverence, observance of the Sabbath, and the maintenance of the spiritual standards and ideals of his church. Second, it teaches duty to country--true patriotism--a love for the Constitution, for our free institutions, and for our American way of life. Third, it teaches the value of service to others--willing, unselfish service, and that the greatest among them must be the servant of all--symbolized by the “good turn”. Fourth, it teaches duty to self--that they must keep themselves physically strong, mentally awake, and morally straight. They must be prepared for any eventuality to serve themselves, their church, and their country. President Ezra Taft Benson 13th President of the Church Conference Report, April 1951 Improvement Era, June 1951, pg. 423 DO YOU KNOW? HOW TO MAKE MY SCOUTING UNIT MORE EFFECTIVE? Brother K. Hart Bullock, Director for LDS Relationships for the Boy Scouts of America, has seen (Explorer) posts that function well and those that haven't functioned at all. He shared several keys to making the program work. "Leadership. 'This goes back to the bishopric capturing the vision of the needs of the priest-age young men and how Exploring can help meet those needs. With that vision, the bishopric can, through prayerful selection, call the right man to serve. Ideally, the leader should have the Church experience and spiritual strength to help our priest-age youth through some challenging years.' "Training. 'Leaders need to be trained so they know how to implement the program. The local Boy Scout councils and their districts have a great basic program to train Explorer leaders.' "Post Officers. 'If young men are properly called and trained as post officers, they learn valuable leadership skills that will help them on their missions and in other aspects of their lives.' "Planning. 'If post leaders and officers will plan the program for a year, keeping in mind Aaronic Priesthood purposes, they can be successful. Hopefully, they would print that program and distribute it to all the priests in the ward and their parents, then carry out their plans.' "Commitment. 'I really have a love for Exploring; it's what got me involved initially as a professional Scouter, after I was called to be an Explorer advisor as a newly returned missionary. I've seen the program work many times and personally experienced it as an advisor, where it effectively prepares young men as missionaries and to meet the challenges of life.'" Interview with Mike Cannon Church News, February 6, 1993, page 7 DO YOU KNOW? THE IMPORTANCE OF COUNSEL AND ADVISE Now can you see, you Latter?day Saints, how unwise it is for us to disobey counsel, when that counsel is given for the benefit of the whole people? Elder George Q. Cannon General Conference, October 6, 1875 THE IMPORTANCE OF SAFETY TRAINING Before any activity, participants should be taught safety practices dealing with the activity. If a serious injury does occur, take immediate first aid action, including contacting emergency medical services and appropriate authorities. Also report any property damage. Notify local priesthood authorities as soon as possible, explain what happened and request any assistance that may be needed. With an accident or injury, activity leaders should express concern and understanding to all parties involved but make no commitments on behalf of the Church. Leaders should cooperate fully with local authorities. Priesthood leaders should report all serious accidents and injuries to the Risk Management Division of the Finance and Records Department at Church headquarters. Risk Management will consult with Church legal counsel if a claim against the Church appears likely. To contact the Risk Management Division telephone (801) 240?4049 or Telex 170416. ? Activity Committee Handbook, p. 6 (reiterated in the Church News, 2 October 1993, page 2) When planning "troop sponsored" activities, the Youth Protection program should be incorporated. This includes the requirement for at least two adults to be with the youth at all times throughout the planned events. "Troop sponsored" activities are events planned by the Scouting unit or recognized by the chartering organization as an official unit activities where the Scouts are working on requirements associated with Boy Scout rank advancements, merit badges, or special awards. If parents believe their sons are attending "troop sponsored" activities, then the adult leaders must consider the event as such. To assist parents in recognizing these activities, unit leaders should publish a calendar of events. Pikes Peak Council Safe Scouting Guidelines from interviews with Council officials 19 October 1993 DO YOU KNOW? THE IMPORTANCE OF THE YOUTH PROTECTION AND CHILD ABUSE PROGRAMS? Abuse in any form is tragic and in opposition to the teachings of the Savior. . . . It may not only harm the body, but it can deeply affect the mind and spirit, destroying faith and causing confusion, doubt, mistrust, guild, and fear. Members who have been thus mistreated need kind, caring attention from inspired Church leaders, family members, and others who can help them overcome the destructive effects of abuse. The surest path to healing is through the application of the teachings of Jesus Christ. Abused members should be encouraged to ask in faith for their Heavenly Father's help, nothing doubting. His love and healing powers of the Atonement will ease their burdens and provide strength to overcome their adversities. - Introduction to Responding to Abuse: Helps for Ecclesiastical Leaders, published by the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints For over three quarters of a century, the Boy Scouts of America has worked to develop the character, citizenship, and personal fitness of America's youth. We realize that the future of our society is vested in each successive generation and the values inherited. Today, as we look toward the 21st century, society is challenged by those who would prey upon America's youth--either by altering their minds with illegal substances or through physically or sexually assaulting their bodies. These scourges--drug abuse and child abuse--must be eliminated. As a major youth-serving organization, the Boy Scouts of America has a unique opportunity to help protect the youth of our nation. . . . Through this effort, the youth that are given knowledge and a sense of personal power will be able to assist in their own self-protection. We as adults owe children all the safety we can possibly provide. - Introduction to "How to Protect Your Children from Child Abuse and Drug Abuse: A Parent's Guide", inserted in the Boy Scout Handbook, published by the Boy Scouts of America DO YOU KNOW? THE VALUE OF MERIT BADGES Scouting provides a program of training and experience. It is a program for character development. It is a supplementary educational program, a program of citizenship training and vocational exploration. Many boys have found their vocations through this program--through the merit badges which are concentrated courses in vocational guidance . . . Scouting teaches boys the crafts and skills and to do something useful with their hands. President Ezra Taft Benson 13th President of the Church Teachings of Ezra Taft Benson, pg. 235 - 236 Each merit badge is an added skill that a boy might learn something about what he would like to do in life. Each badge earned on the Eagle trail is an upward step on the ladder that leads to maturity and service. President Thomas S. Monson 2nd Counselor in the First Presidency Church News, March 9, 1991, page 12 THE PURPOSE FOR RECOGNITION "Awards and recognition can help to foster in our young men a desire to honor their priesthood. As we consider the use of such awards, we should remember that we are striving to encourage the type of dedication, loyalty, and faith exemplified by young Moroni when he raised the title of liberty (Alma 46:12 ? 20) "We must teach our young men that, like Moroni, they should honor their God, their church, their freedom, their peace, and their families. We must teach them that the purpose of achieving goals is prepare them to give priesthood service throughout their lives. Awards and recognition should be seen as aids in this preparation and in fulfillment of the Lord's two great commandments. . . . "The purpose of recognition is to acknowledge self?motivated service or accomplishment. Each leader should search for opportunities to acknowledge such service or accomplishments. Priesthood leaders are encouraged to use this recognition as a means of building a sense of personal worth in young men and establishing closer personal relationships with them. . . . "It is always good to recognized the parents' role in the boy's accomplishments. It is appropriate to discuss with the parents an anticipated award or recognition for their son. This acknowledges the parents prime responsibility for the boy and helps the priesthood leader know how the parents feel about the award. . . "All young men who receive awards, whether for priesthood duties, Scouting, or other accomplishments, should maintain evidence of duty to God. It is the responsibility of local priesthood leaders to ensure that young men are considered for and receive appropriate awards and recognition. Through personal interviews with young men, these priesthood leaders can evaluate a boy's commitment to the gospel of Jesus Christ, his dedication within his quorum, and his overall worthiness to receive recognition for outstanding performance." Aaronic Priesthood/Young Men Bulletin, June 1980 DO YOU KNOW HOW SCOUTING EMPHASIZES SERVICE TO OTHERS? “Scouting stresses service to others, and again this has a spiritual base. The Scout pledges to help other people at all times. Was it not the Master who said, ‘Whosoever will be chief among you, let him be your servant’?” President Ezra Taft Benson 13th President of the Church . . . So Shall Ye Reap, pg. 139
