What are the religious emblems programs?
The religious emblems programs are programs created by the various religious groups to encourage youth to grow
stronger in their faith. All religious emblems programs have been created by the religious groups themselves, not by the
Boy Scouts of America. The Religious Emblems Quick Reference Chart (publication No.5-206) lists all the different
religious programs currently available and who to contact for more information. The Boy Scouts of America has approved
of these programs and allows the recognitions to be worn on the official uniform, but each religious organization develops
and administers its own program.
I have a unit with children of all different faiths. How can I
include the religious emblems programs for my unit?
The religious emblems programs should be presented to youth members and their families as an optional program for
them to complete through their religious organization. Religious instruction should always come from the religious
organization, not from the unit leader. Parents need to be informed of these programs and told where to get the
information for their particular faith.
Do boys and girls participate in the same program?
It depends on the religion. Some religions have created programs that are used by both boys and girls.
Other religions have created separate programs for members of separate youth agencies (i.e., Boy Scouts of America, Girl
Scouts of the U.S.A., and Camp Fire Boys and Girls). Please check the specific eligibility
requirements for each religious emblems program.
Do the youth have to belong to a religious institution?
It depends on the religion. Please check the eligibility requirements for your particular religious program.
Why doesn’t my religious institution know about the religious emblems programs?
Although the religious emblems programs were created by
the religious bodies at the national level, the local religious
institution may not be aware of these programs. It may be
helpful to write for more information or even obtain a copy of the curriculum to give to your religious leader.
If the religious emblems program for my faith has more than one level (for the different grade levels),
may my child earn all of these recognitions?
Yes. Members can earn all levels of their religious emblems program. However, they must be in the appropriate program
guidelines when they start and complete each level (they may not go backwards and earn younger programs).
How is the emblem presented?
The emblem should be presented in a meaningful ceremony, preferably in the youth member’s religious institution. Some
emblems come with a sample presentation ceremony.
How long does it take to complete a program?
It depends on the program. Some programs may take three or four months, others longer. |
Where is the emblem worn on the uniform?
The universal religious square knot is worn over the left shirt
pocket of the Scout uniform. The medallion is pinned over the square knot for full uniform occasions.
How do we get started on these programs?
First, youth members must obtain the specific booklet for
their religion. This booklet will contain information on all the
lessons and service projects that they will need to complete. Each member needs to have their own booklet to document
progress. Some religions also provide adult manuals for counselors and mentors. Check with your local council to see
if it stocks these booklets in its store, or contact the religious
organization directly (addresses and phone numbers are listed on the Religious Emblems Quick Reference Chart
No.5-206).
Second, parents must review the specific guidelines for their
particular program: age/grade requirements vary from program to program; some programs require that the youth
be an official “member” of the local religious institution, others may not; and each program determines who may
serve as counselor (some require clergy, others allow parents or other family members). Be sure to look at specific
eligibility guidelines!
Third, families should talk to their religious leaders and show
them the booklet before beginning any program. Most of the religious emblems programs require that they be completed
under the auspices of that religious organization, and many require the signature of the local religious leader. Again,
check the specific eligibility requirements for your religious program.
Fourth, the member needs to complete the requirements,
obtain the proper signatures, and follow the instructions to order the emblem/award. (These emblems are not available
in your local council.) The emblem can be presented at any time of the year and should be presented in a meaningful
ceremony, preferably in the member’s religious institution.
Who may serve as counselor?
It depends on the program. Some programs require clergy to serve as counselor, others allow a parent or family member.
Please check the specific guidelines for your religious
program.
How do I order the recognition items?
Each religious program has its own emblem. Follow the instructions in your recognition guidelines because the
emblems come from different places and require submission of different information. These emblems will not
be available in your local council!
What are the adult recognitions?
The adult recognitions are by nomination only; they are honors given to worthy adults for their outstanding service to
youth both through their religious institution and one of the national youth agencies. Recipients of these awards are
unaware that they are being nominated; an outside party must nominate them to receive an award by submitting the
required application, letters of recommendation and resume. Please check eligibility requirements for specific awards. |