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General Questions
What is an Interfaith Service?
An interfaith service is a short, inclusive gathering where Scouts, families, and leaders come together to reflect on shared values — such as courage, friendship, peace, gratitude, and service — through readings, songs, prayers, or moments of reflection drawn from multiple faith traditions. The goal is to live out the Scout Law’s call to be Reverent, while honoring the many belief systems represented in our Pack.
Is this a worship service?
Not in the traditional sense. This is not a sermon, not a church service, and not affiliated with any one religion, faith, or spiritual practice. It is a Scout-led time of reflection focused on values we all share, regardless of belief system.
Is attendance required?
No. While participation is encouraged, especially as a way to build community and reflect together before breaking camp, no Scout or family is required to attend. That said, we do expect respectful behavior from everyone, including those who choose not to participate, as we’ll all be sharing the same space during this time.
For Parents & Guardians
Can my child participate if we don’t attend religious services?
Absolutely. The service is built around universal values and is intentionally designed to welcome Scouts from all backgrounds. Many readings, songs, and reflections are non-denominational and do not reference any specific deity or tradition.
Can I preview the materials beforehand?
Yes. All materials used in the service are available in our Interfaith Toolkit or will be included in a printed program at the event. If you have questions or concerns, feel free to contact the Religious Emblems Coordinator (REC) for more information.
Will prayers be included?
Often, yes — though they are typically brief, inclusive, and non-denominational or selected from a variety of traditions. The goal is to offer respectful exposure, not indoctrination. Services always include the option for moments of silence instead of spoken prayers.
For Scouts
What if I’m nervous about speaking in front of everyone?
That’s okay! You can pick a small part, like reading a few lines, leading a moment of silence, or helping pass out programs. You can also ask an adult to take your place, but it’s a great chance to practice public speaking in a safe, supportive space.
Can I help plan the service?
Yes! If you’re a Webelos or Arrow of Light Scout, your Den may be asked to plan and lead the service. You’ll get to pick a theme and decide what songs, readings, and prayers are included as well as who speaks, and more.
Can I use something from my own faith or family tradition?
Absolutely, as long as it’s appropriate for a mixed-faith audience. Talk to your Den Leader or the REC to make sure it’s a good fit and gets approved for use. Once something has been approved, it will be added to our Interfaith Toolkit for future use.
Note: If the material has already been used in another Pack, Troop, Crew, or adult training service, it’s automatically approved unless there’s a specific concern about content.
For Den Leaders & Volunteers
Who is responsible for planning the service?
Usually, the highest-ranking Den attending the campout (typically Webelos or AOLs) will plan the service. An adult volunteer or the REC will attend one of their meetings and help guide the process using a Planning Worksheet and Toolkit. If neither Den wishes to participate in this way, the responsibility will fall onto the REC or other Scouter willing to take this on.
What if my Den doesn’t want to participate?
That’s okay. Participation is always voluntary, though Webelos and AOLs are strongly encouraged to take the lead. If your Den isn’t planning the service, you can still support it by encouraging individual Scouts to help with readings, songs, or other small parts.
What if we don’t know what to include?
We’ve got you covered. The Interfaith Toolkit includes a curated collection of prayers, readings, and songs organized by theme. You can also use a Planning Worksheet to walk through every section of the service.
How do I get new content approved?
If a Scout or volunteer wants to include something not already in the Toolkit, it must be approved by the Key 3 (Cubmaster, Committee Chair, Chartered Org Rep). Send a copy of the material to the REC for review, preferably well in advance of any upcoming campout so the Key 3 have enough time to get the approve before any planning sessions.
Logistics & Practical Questions
How long does the service last?
Services are designed to run 20–30 minutes and are scheduled on Sunday mornings before heading home.
Where does the service take place?
Usually in a central outdoor location at the campsite near the flagpoles, pavilion, or fire ring. The location will be announced at or before the campout.
What materials do we need?
A printed program for all attendees (prepared by the REC or service coordinator)
Lyrics and readings to support audience participation
And, of course, eager Cub Scouts and well-caffeinated adults to help lead
What if it rains?
We’ll move to a covered area (pavilion or mess hall) or keep it short and simple under canopies or tents. Worst case, a brief moment of reflection can be held before departure.
Can families from different faiths bring something to share?
Yes, we welcome contributions from all traditions! Just ensure anything you share is appropriate for a diverse, mixed-faith audience and is submitted for approval in advance. We love showcasing values from different backgrounds in ways that honor everyone present.
Contact
For questions or guidance, contact our Key 3 leadership team or our Religious Emblems Coordinator (REC). Their contact information can be found on the About page.
Cubmaster
Committee Chairman
Chartered Organization Representative
Religious Emblems Coordinator
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