Scouts learn about religious emblems

Scouts from four communities learned about religious symbols March 12 during God and Country training at First UMC, Smithville.
The religious emblems curriculum is designed for any youth organization, not just Boy Scouts, Girl Scouts, 4-H, Boys and Girls Club or Camp Fire Boys and Girls, said the Rev. Mark Adams, course instructor.
“This is a great opportunity for scouts to rediscover our religious culture,” said Adams, pastor of First UMC, Schulenburg, and Pioneer District commissioner for the Boy Scouts. “The course reflects the 12th point of the Scout Law: A scout is reverent.”
The dozen participants came from Bastrop, Paige, Schulenburg and Smithville scout units, Adams said. They did age-level-appropriate workbook exercises on biblical theology, Christian history, world religions, ethics and personal faith development.
A councilor guides candidates through the workbook’s exercises, Adams said. Volunteer mentors assist youths toward completion of God and Country Award requirements.
“The award is a ‘lifetime award,’” said Gerry Beathard, course registrar and assistant Pioneer District commissioner. “It may be worn on their youth and later adult uniforms.”
The award includes a knot patch, a certificate and a medal. Award recipients are eligible to serve as future mentors or councilors for the religious emblems course. The training takes at least eight weeks, Adams said.
“We are always happy to host scouting,” said Rev. Karen Boehk, pastor of First UMC, Smithville. “It provides a great service to the youths of our community.”
P.R.A.Y. Inc. of Kansas City, Mo., developed the symbols curriculum.
The next ecumenical religious emblems course is planned for late April or early May. For information contact Adams at (979) 743-3333.