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I was involved in Scouts for many years. I was the youngest sixer in my Cub pack, I was a Patrol leader and lead Patrol leader, I was part of an elite group of service Scouts that were chosen from across Toronto, etc. I was also a Chief Scout (same as an Eagle Scout only Canadian). Religion was a part of Scouting.
My first Scout troop was affiliated with a Salvation Army (we met in the basement) and we often visited the church for events. Our troop leader was quite active in the church as well. The second troop I was in was based out of a school gym and there was a lot less religion (overtly or otherwise). I do remember the oaths and all the God stuff but for the most part it just washed over me. I didn't know what I really believed. It wasn't until I was in my late teens and a few years out of Scouting that I became an avowed atheist. I wasn't ready at that age to make a stand.
That said, I think Scouts does need to make a decision on the religion aspect but feel that Scouts will do what they always do... take the conservative route. As they did with the issue of homosexuality, they will bury their head in the sand of history and ignore that the world is changing. I have not enrolled either of my kids in Scouts. I had a number of great experiences with Scouts but also a few terrible ones. When I add into the mix the religious and militaristic aspects of the organization, I am not interested in adding this sort of stuff to my children's experience. What I long for is an organization like Scouts but without those two particular aspects.
Yes, the kid should get the badge but I will be surprised if he does.
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"My hands are on fire. Hands are on fire. Ain't got no more time for all you charlatans and liars."
- Old Man Luedecke
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