This is ironic... Right after enthusing about how Scouts are maintaining a Christian presence in our secular country, and still encouraging boys to "do their duty to God and country" I read this as I was browsing through Christianity magazine:
"Scouts Consult on Including Atheists.
"The UK Scout "promise" may be changed to accommodate atheists and those unable to make the existing commitment.
A nationwide survey was launched last month asking members whether alternative wording should be developed.
The 105-year old organisation said the consultation was about 'finding a way to allow young people and adults who have not previously been able to join the movement to be part of the scouting adventure."
The UK scouting movement has been under pressure from secular campaigners over the religious pledge.
In October it was reported that George Pratt, an 11 -yr old from Somerset, was refused membership in his local troop after he said he was an atheist and declined to make the promise.
Assistant director Simon Carter told Christianity, "The consultation will be open until the end of January, If we do go down the pathway of offering a variation in the promise, there'll be another whole discussion around what that promise says. It's an open consultation, so even if you're not a member, you can make a comment, and we're interested in all views." Alternative versions of the promise are currently available for people of other faiths."
Christianity February 2013 pg 10
In my opinion, non-Christians should not have to say a promise they don't mean, nor be excluded - but, don't take away the promise for everyone, just to suit the few. What will we be left with?
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