For many years, scouting has served as a valuable component of Catholic youth ministry in parishes, schools, and communities. Through leadership and skill development, Catholic scouts and scouters are formed in virtue and faith.
The Diocesan Catholic Committee on Scouting (DCCS) provides Catholic scouts with continued education in the Catholic faith and supports the growth of Catholic scouting units in scouting organizations.
Youth are invited to earn age-appropriate religious emblems by completing a formation program including a workbook. Upon completion of the program, they are invited to attend an annual Recognition Mass with the Bishop. We also host a variety of events throughout the year including adult training, youth retreats, Rosary Patches, Footsteps of the Saints programs and other religious activities.
4th Annual Scouting Family Retreat at Eagle's Wings Retreat Center for a day of outdoor reflection, activity patches, the Interactive Eucharistic Miracles Exhibit, and fun! Open to all families (scouting involvement not required) and all scouting troops and organizations. The cost is $50 per family or $15 for individual. Youth must be accompanied by a troop leader, parent or adult.
The Diocesan Catholic Committee on Scouting meets quarterly to assess the needs of our Catholic Scouting population and to plan age-appropriate events to foster a deeper appreciation of our faith. In addition, the committee sponsors adult training for religious emblem counselor roles. If you have a topic that you think needs to be addressed or would like to attend, please contact DCCS chair, Stephen Harris.
At this Mass, Scouts from Scouts BSA, Girl Scouts, and American Heritage Girls who have earned a religious emblem or award in the previous year. Eagle Scouts and Gold Award and Stars and Stripes awardees are invited to attend. Adult recognition awards are also awarded at this Mass.
In conjunction with the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops, the National Catholic Committee on Scouting offers the Jubilee 2025 Activity. By offering this program the NCCS is lending support to the Jubilee Year. From the USCCB: “Pope Francis stated in his February 2022 letter announcing the Jubilee 2025: "We must fan the flame of hope that has been given us and help everyone to gain new strength and certainty by looking to the future with an open spirit, a trusting heart and far-sighted vision. The forthcoming Jubilee can contribute greatly to restoring a climate of hope and trust as a prelude to the renewal and rebirth that we so urgently desire..."Download the activity requirements here.
Scouting in the Catholic Church
July 6-12, 2025
Join us for a great week of faith, family, adventure and fun, at our Scouting in the Catholic Church Conference at the Philmont Training Center near Cimarron, New Mexico. The conference is July 6-12, 2025.
Youth ministers, clergy, Scout leaders, families—all are welcome to come for a faith-filled, informative and fun week. A course highlight will be learning to incorporate the new USCCB document “Listen, Teach, Send” into Catholic Scouting. Religious Emblems Counselor training will also be offered.
Mass is offered daily amidst the beauty of God's creation and opportunities for exploring and enjoying the natural surroundings abound.
Register today for this wonderful experience in God’s country that provides an opportunity to learn more about Catholic Scouting and how we can better minister to our youth.
At this Mass, Scouts from Scouts BSA, Girl Scouts, and American Heritage Girls who have earned a religious emblem or award in the previous year. Eagle Scouts and Gold Award and Stars and Stripes awardees are invited to attend. Adult recognition awards are also awarded at this Mass.Read More
