Scouts Strengthen Faith Through a Worldwide Reading Initiative

Each year, the observance of National Day of Prayer offers a meaningful opportunity for Scouts to reflect on one of the most important principles in Scouting: reverence. Rooted in the 12th point of the Scout Law – “A Scout is reverent” – and reinforced by the Scout Oath’s commitment to duty to God, this value is meant to be lived, not just recited.

That spirit is at the heart of Scouts Read Sacred Texts, an initiative led by the Scouting America National Religious Relationships Committee. Now in its third year, the program encourages Scouts worldwide to set aside intentional time to read from a sacred text of their own faith tradition. While May 7 is the focal point, participation is open anytime leading up to that date.

What makes this initiative powerful is its simplicity and inclusiveness. Scouts can take part individually, with their families, in their units, or through their faith communities. Leaders recommend about 15 minutes of reading, just enough time to pause, reflect, and engage more deeply with personal beliefs and values.

The initiative continues to grow. Last year alone, more than 5,600 Scouts participated, logging over 2,300 hours of reading. These moments, often shared quietly at home or in small groups, help build lifelong habits of reflection, respect, and understanding.

The experience connects Scouts across communities and cultures, creating a shared moment of reflection while strengthening individual faith journeys.

How to Get Involved

Getting started is easy, and participation is flexible:

Choose a sacred text meaningful to your faith tradition
Decide whether to read alone or with others
Set aside about 15 minutes for intentional reflection
Talk with a religious leader or family member if you’d like guidance on what to read

Scouts who participate can also receive a commemorative patch or sticker as a reminder of their experience.

Register and Learn More

Scouts are encouraged to officially take part by registering here.

To explore additional resources, guidance, and promotional materials, visit:
https://www.scoutsreadsacredtextsworldwide.org

Scouts Read Sacred Texts is an invitation to slow down, reflect, and connect. In doing so, Scouts not only honor the principle of reverence but also strengthen bonds with their faith, their families, and the global Scouting community.

Event Guidance for Unit Leaders

Guidance for Scouts BSA Leaders

Scouts Read Sacred Texts aligns with the values, principles, and spiritual aims of Scouting. It is intended for Scoutmasters, Cubmasters, Advisors, and other adult leaders seeking a simple, respectful way to support a Scout’s Duty to God.

How This Aligns with Scouting

It supports the Scout Oath commitment to Duty to God
Encourages personal faith reflection consistent with BSA principles
Respects each Scout’s family and faith tradition
May be completed individually, with family, or as a unit activity
Requires no religious instruction by the unit leader

Appropriate Use in Units

Scouts Read Sacred Texts does not replace religious emblems programs or formal religious instruction. Instead, it offers a simple opportunity for Scouts to engage personally with the sacred writings of their own faith as encouraged by Scouting.

Suggested Applications

A meeting reflection or quiet activity
A home-based Duty to God assignment
Scout Sunday or Scout Sabbath observance
Participation during National Day of Prayer week
A Wood Badge ticket or unit faith emphasis activity

Leader Reassurance

Scout leaders are not expected to teach theology, lead religious discussions, or compare faith traditions. Each Scout reads from his or her own sacred text as guided by family or faith leaders. Participation is voluntary and respectful of all beliefs.

A Note to Scout Leaders

Scouting has long recognized the importance of spiritual growth as part of character development. Youth Read Sacred Texts offers a simple, flexible way to support that growth while honoring the diversity of faith traditions within Scouting.

Guidance for Cub Scout Leaders