Frequently Asked Questions: The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints and the Boy Scouts of America

Source Download LDS Letter (sent to Stake Presidents and local leaders): https://drive.google.com/open?id=1fmSA_QzzEC7cgRPz1e_0xXEpZeR93d3_ Frequently Asked Questions: The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints and the Boy Scouts of America December 14, 2018 On May 8, 2018, The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (Church) announced that it would discontinue its chartered partnership with the Boy Scouts of America (BSA) on December 31, 2019. The following information will help members of The Church and BSA volunteers and professionals with this transition. 1. When and how can Boy Scouts of America begin recruiting adult leaders? Between now and May 2019, BSA volunteers and professionals can begin having conversations with and securing commitments from potential chartered organizations about starting new Scouting units in 2019 and securing new meeting locations. The Church (including individual stakes, wards, or branches) will not be a sponsor for any newly formed packs or troops. 2. Can Church leaders invite youth and adult leaders to continue in Scouting? The responsibility for inviting youth and adult leaders to continue their Scouting experience belongs to BSA. BSA may approach adults who may be interested in continuing as youth leaders. Church leaders should not refer adults or recruit adults or youth at any time; neither should Church leaders distribute materials to those who might be interested in remaining in Scouting. 3. Can BSA post recruiting materials in Church buildings? From June through December 2019, only approved flyers may be posted on bulletin boards in Church buildings, subject to approval by local Church leaders. Promotional materials should not appear to be endorsed by the Church. The century-long partnership can be referenced but should not include icons that identify the Church, such as the temple or the Angel Moroni. Quotes by Church leaders (former and current) may not be used in promotional materials without prior approval from the Young Men General Presidency. 4. Can Church buildings be used for Scout meetings or activities? Church buildings or grounds should not be used for any form of recruiting for community packs and troops. After December 31, 2019, the Church will no longer be an official charter partner with the BSA, and Church meetinghouses and properties should no longer be used for Scout meetings or activities. 5. How should Scout rechartering and updating Scout rosters be done during 2019? Together, the Church and BSA have decided that all Church unit charters will be automatically renewed with an expiration date of December 31, 2019. Since Church units will be automatically renewed, it is important that local leaders follow the Updating Rosters process outlined in the resource “Updating BSA Rosters for LDS Units.” This process will ensure that all youth and adults participating in Scouting are properly registered and are eligible for all benefits of the full Scouting program during 2019. Note: Leaders should not share stake or ward Member and Leader Services (MLS) or Leader and Clerk Resources (LCR) lists of young men or adult leaders with any outside entity, including BSA. 6. Is it necessary for leaders to complete Scout leader training even though we are ending our chartered partnership with Scouting? Until December 31, 2019, all Cub and Scout adult leaders should comply with all BSA-required training and standards. It is especially critical that leaders complete the new Youth Protection Training requirement. Such training also assures that Church Scout leaders have ongoing protection and coverage under the BSA insurance policies. Failure to complete this training may result in personal liability exposure in the event of an accident or claim. 7. For 2019, what types of camping experiences can young men participate in? Camps, high adventure activities, and other outdoor activities should continue to be an important part of activities for young men and are planned and held during 2019 at the discretion of local priesthood leaders. 8. What is meant when the Church asks members to stay “fully engaged” until December 31, 2019? The First Presidency has counseled: “Effective on December 31, 2019, the Church will conclude its relationship as a chartered organization with all Scouting programs around the world. Until that date, to allow for an orderly transition, the intention of the Church is to remain a fully engaged partner in Scouting for boys and young men ages 8–13 and encourages all youth, families, and leaders to continue their active participation and financial support.” Sponsorship includes regularly held Cub and Scout meetings.