Embedded Files
Planning an Interfaith Service
This guide is designed to help AOLs and Webelos plan an interfaith service for Pack campouts. We recommend discussing this during your Den meeting the month before campout so Scouts can choose readings, songs, and roles.
Key Principles
Keep it Scout-led if possible, not Scout-participatory
Aim for inclusion: all beliefs, traditions, and levels of faith practice respected
Keep it short: 20-30 minutes total
Focus on shared values (courage, peace, friendship, service)
Participation is encouraged, not required
Step-by-Step
Identify Who's Leading
Start by determining which Den will plan the service. This is typically the highest-ranking Den attending the campout — usually Webelos or AOLs, depending on whether the crossover ceremony has already occurred.
Coordinate with the Den Leader to attend a meeting and provide any needed materials ahead of time, such as:
A link to the Interfaith Toolkit
The Planning Worksheet or printed planning guide
Meet with Scouts to Plan the Service
During the Den meeting:
Ask the Scouts to select a theme (e.g., Courage, Peace, Service)
Walk them through the Interfaith Service Planning Worksheet to choose elements for the service
Encourage them to assign roles:
Who will serve as MC (Master of Ceremonies)?
Who will lead prayers, songs, or readings?
Let them know they can ask an adult (Den Leader, REC, or other Scouter) to MC if needed — but encourage them to view this as a safe way to practice public speaking.
As the adult volunteer or Scouter, reach out to other Den Leaders and invite them to have their Scouts volunteer for songs, readings, or other parts. This helps build excitement and shared ownership across the Pack.
Finalize the Program
Once the elements are selected:
Assign each piece to a Scout or adult, and identify a backup for each role (in case someone can’t attend or gets cold feet)
The backup can be one person for all such as the REC or other Scouter
Compile all the elements into a single program booklet or pamphlet
Make sure the printout includes:
An order of service
Any lyrics, readings, or responses so that everyone can follow along and participate
Review Any New Material
If the Scouts choose any prayers, songs, or readings not already included in the Interfaith Toolkit, please:
Submit them for review to the Key 3 for approval
Once approved, work with the Webmaster or REC to add them to the Interfaith Toolkit for future use
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