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Some Ideas on Scouts' Owns
"For an open
Troop, or for Troops in camp, I think the Scouts' Own should be open to all
denominations, and carried on in such manner as to offend none. There should not
be any special form, but it should abound in the right spirit, and should be
conducted not from any ecclesiastical point of view, but from that of the boy.
Everything likely to make an artificial atmosphere should be avoided. We do not
want a kind of imposed Church Parade, but a voluntary uplifting of their hearts
by the boys in thanksgiving for the joys of life, and a desire on their part to
seek inspiration and strength for greater love and service for others."
By Baden Powell
Printed in "The Scouter"
November 1928
What is a Scouts' Own
A Scouts' Own service is usually short,
often lasting no longer than 15 minutes. They are made up of a mixture of
readings, prayers, reflections and music. Many Scouts' Owns are based on a
particular theme, such as friendship, using resources wisely, or fairness. This
might be connected to a certain event or occasion.
A Scouts' Own is open to everyone
and is not a replacement for an individual's own worship according to their
faith.
This does not mean that you cannot have a
service that satisfies the requirements for an individual's own worship. If, as
a Chaplain, you are also and ordained minister, authorized by your church body to conduct the sacraments of the faith, you can plan a break-out session
after the Scout's Own to conduct these service elements.
Elements of a Scouts'
Own
Although there is no set
format for a Scouts' Own. A services should consist of a beginning, a middle,
and an end.
Beginning explains the
theme or why we are gathered. Perhaps open with a reading or song.
Middle can include
readings, discussions, and meditations followed by prayers. Remember that
prayers include thanks as well as requests.
End with a song or
something which cements the theme and concludes things on a high note.
Typical elements include
Call to gather/worship -
Something to get peoples attention to let them know things are about to
begin
Invocation - Call for
togetherness with God and nature
Songs - Usually something
soft, calming and thematic
Prayers - Invite participants
to share prayers of their faith
Responsive readings -
Thematic readings that involve a leader and the group
Parables/Stories - A story
with a purpose to teach and evoke thought
Meditation - Time to reflect
on the theme, events and actions
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