Eastern
Orthodox
Committee on
Scouting
In Collaboration with
The ORTHODOX YOUTH & YOUNG ADULT MINISTRIES
Serving our youth since 1960
Archbishop Demetrios
Greek Orthodox Archdiocese of America
8-10 East 79th St. • New York, NY 10021 • TEL: (212) 570-3500
FAX: (212) 570-3569 • E-MAIL: archdiocese@goarch.org
January 22, 2001
Beloved in the Lord,
For decades, the Greek Orthodox Archdiocese of America has endorsed the Boy Scouts of America (BSA). We have encouraged our young people throughout America to participate in this program by forming Orthodox Scouting Troops in our parishes.
Scouting offers our young people many opportunities for leading a dedicated, Christian life. The BSA principles of Duty to God and country, service to others and respect for self are commendable. Most especially I applaud the twelfth Boy Scout Law that states, “A Scout is reverent, He is reverent to God, He is faithful in his religious duties and respects the convictions of others in matters of custom and religion.” On behalf of the Orthodox Scouting Troops and Leaders throughout America, I am pleased to endorse this worthy program.
With Paternal love in Christ,
+DEMETRIOS
Archbishop of America