Hancock parish bursting with faith-filled scouts

The Boy Scouts of America and the practice of faith have traditionally had strong ties. Christian and Protestant Scouts, for example, can work to earn medals such as the God and Church award from their respective denominations.

The Ad Altare Dei award is given out to Catholics who execute activities that show the "duty of God" in scouting. This year, 10 boys from Troops 74 and 174 in Hancock will be receiving the award; normally only one or two do so.

"It's an honor because not many other people have really done it," said 14-year-old Mark White, who attends St. Paul the Apostle parish in Hancock.

To earn the award, a scout must take part in a faith-related activity and document it. They must have a supporting document attached and submit the completed documentation to the National Catholic Commit-tee on Scouting.

Honored
"I feel that it's an honor that not many people have gotten it and I am one who will receive it," echoed Patrick O'Boyle, another 14-year-old who attends St. Paul's.

During the process, the scouts have a leader guide them through the events and activities and teach them about their faith. This year, Rev. Christopher Welch, pastor of St. Paul's, served as the troop leader.

"It was a good way for me to get to know some young people in the parish," said the priest. "It's also very exciting for them to take an interest in faith."

By having the scouts take part in activities like cleaning up the walkway at St. Paul's and creating posters showing signs of faith, Father Welch helped them bond with one another, all while becoming more aware of their faith.

Mark credited Father Welch with making the process interesting. "He made everything actually connect to things in our life," he said. "There was a chapter on anointing of the sick and he made us think about things: 'Did you help anybody who was in need? What about your brothers or sisters who might need help with something?'"

For the boys, receiving the award will be special for their families, as well. "They're very proud of me that I received the award," said Patrick.

Mark said that his family "thought it was a good idea that I should go through the whole thing. Now that I did it, they're very proud."

Connections
For Father Welch, the Ad Altare Dei award symbolizes the relationship between faith and scouting.

"With scouting, I believe the religious values interconnect," he said. "I think the scouting program can help young men grow in their faith. The values of scouting are good family values, respect for nature and respect for God, which is everything we teach."

To recognize all the award winners from throughout the Albany Diocese, the Diocese's Catholic Committee on Scouting will hold a retreat encampment Sept. 18-20 at the Shrine of Our Lady of Martyrs in Auriesville. 

This is a tradition that has been going on for the past 57 years.

"It's a good change for them to go on a retreat and really focus on their faith," noted Father Welch. "I also think it's great for anyone to see the shrine, because it really is one-of-a-kind."

(09/10/09)