C Day 3 Interfaith Worship Service C Presenter 1 Presenter 2

C Day 3 Why Include Religious Services in Scouting? The Charter and Bylaws of the Boy Scouts of America: –recognize the religious element in the training of the BSA’s members, but it is absolutely non-sectarian in its attitude toward that religious training.” –maintains that no member can grow into the best kind of citizen without recognizing an obligation to God. –religious instruction is ultimately the responsibility of the home and the religious institution. 4

C Day 3 “A Scout is REVERENT” A Scout is reverent toward God. He is faithful in his religious duties. He respects the beliefs of others. 5

C Day 3 The Constitution of the United States Guarantees each of us complete freedom to believe and worship as we wish without fear of punishment. 6

C Day 3 What is an Interfaith Worship Service? A brief worship or meditation, specifically designed for Scouting events where there may be members of more than one faith group. –A gathering of Scouts consistent with the 12th point of the Scout Law –Held for the development of the Scouts’ spirituality 7

C Day 3 Lord Baden-Powell’s Thoughts “For an open troop, or for troops in camp, I think that interfaith worship service should be open to all denominations, and carried on in such a manner as to offend none. There should be not be any special form, but should abound in the right spirit, and not conducted from an ecclesiastical point of view, but from that of the boy” 8

C Day 3 Interfaith Worship Service – Basic Concepts Choose a setting that lends itself to the occasion that promotes reverence Everything must be in good taste It should be planned, timed, and rehearsed Consider people’s comfort 9

C Day 3 Interfaith Worship Service – Basic Concepts (cont.) Be courteous, kind, and reverent. Respect the rights and feelings of others. Insure that all participants have an opportunity to participate. 10

C Day 3 Recognize Diversity Include all faith denominations Different religious practices and variety of holy days A service that all Scouts and Scouters may attend 11

C Day 3 Summary BSA outings and activities should include opportunities for members to meet their religious obligations Encourage Scouts and Scouters to participate Care must be taken to support and respect all the faiths represented in the group. –Use inspirational rather than particular religious materials Check with religious authorities if a question arises about appropriateness 12

C Day 3 Interfaith Worship Service Program Sample Call to Worship Hymns or songs Scripture(s) or readings from a variety of religious or inspirational sources Responsive reading Personal prayer Group prayer Inspirational reading or message Offering (World Friendship Fund) An act of friendship Benediction or closing 13

C Day 3 14 Final Thoughts from Lord Baden-Powell The highest point in a man’s aim should be : “That a person’s religion is not in how he behaves; rather it is in what he believes. ”

C Day 3 Questions