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BOY SCOUTS OF AMERICA National Office October 12, 1998 Dear Mr. Bekkenhuis: This is in response to your recent letter of September 26, 1998 to Jere B. Ratcliffe, Chief Scout Executive concerning the position of the Boy Scouts of America and that of
the Unitarian Universalist Association. Your comments have been noted. First, let me emphasize that as far back as 1992 the Association passed a resolution to dissolve its relationship with the National
Council of the Boy Scouts of America. Since then, at the request of the Association, we have continued a dialogue rather than breaking off our relationship. Based on the recent statements of the Association, we have
accepted their decision to sever their relationship with the BSA. The Association's present position is directly contradictory to the stated values of the Scout Oath and Law and therefore incompatible with the goals of
Scouting. The Boy Scouts of America asks a boy who desires to join that he subscribe to the Scout Oath and Scout Law. In doing this he states that he will recognize his "duty to God" and that
"a Scout is reverent". The Scout then works with his parents and religious leaders in more specifically defining these responsibilities. Scouting also teaches a youth "to respect the beliefs of
others". In all religious matters we are non-sectarian in our approach. As a private membership organization, we believe our right to determine the qualifications of our members and leaders is
protected by the Constitution of the United States. I trust that this will be of help to you in understanding the position of the Boy Scouts of America. Sincerely yours,
Thomas R. Deimler, Director Relationships Division cc: <My Council Scout Executive> Return to top of page.Return to Society page. Return to Return to The Inclusive Christian |
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