Catholic Boy, Girl Scouts earn religious recognitions

Intermountain Catholic

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Bishop Wester presents Girl Scout religious medals and emblems to girls from age 7 to 15. He is assisted by Deacon Billy Martin of Our Lady of Lourdes Parish, Magna. IC photos by Barbara S. Lee

SALT LAKE CITY — Boy Scouts and Girl Scouts of all levels and ages gathered with their parents and leaders in the Cathedral of the Madeleine March 1 for the annual Catholic Scouting Religious Emblems and Award Ceremony.

The ceremony began with the hymn, "Holy God We Praise Thy Name," followed by the Posting of the Colors and the Pledge of Allegiance, both led by Austin Dennis.

Lindsey Coleman led the Girl Scouts in the Girl Scout Promise and Koby Konschot led the Cub Scouts in the Cub Scout Promise. Coaltin Dennis led the Boy Scout Oath.

Crestin Dennis offered a reading from St. Paul.

"As I look at the men coming into the prison these days, it seems they are arriving at the prison younger and younger," said Father James E. Blaine, pastor of St. Peter Parish, American Fork, and chaplain at the Utah State Prison. Fr. Blaine also serves as diocesan assistant scout chaplain and Region XIII National Council of Catholic Scouting chaplain. In his homily Fr. Blaine encouraged all the scouts to stay on the path on which Catholic scouting leads them.

"I have looked at you young people over the last few months. You’ve been working so hard to earn your emblems. Continue to learn all you can from your families, your community, and your church. Use your gifts for the good of others and the glory of God."

As each of the scouting units were announced, the boys and girls lined up to receive their emblems and medals from Bishop John C. Wester, who shook each hand and congratulated each scout.

"I thank all of you who have served as leaders and mentors for these young people," Bishop Wester said. "Our gratitude is deep and sincere. I am also very proud of each one of you young scouts. The emblems you have earned are signs and symbols of your goodness, your discipline, your industry, your hard work, talent, creativity, and God’s grace in your lives...

"Scripture tells us that Jesus grew in age, wisdom, and grace. He grew as a human being. Jesus did what you are doing. You have shown us God’s grace at work in you."