Scouts Read Sacred Texts – 5/7

Scouts Read Sacred Texts Worldwide is an event to encourage youth to read their sacred texts in conjunction with the U.S. National Day of Prayer.

The event aligns with the values, principles, and spiritual aims of Scouting. It is intended for Scoutmasters, Cubmasters, Advisors, and other adult leaders seeking a simple, respectful way to support a Scout’s Duty to God.

How This Aligns with Scouting

• It supports the Scout Oath commitment to duty to God

• Encourages personal reflection consistent with BSA principles

• Respects each Scout’s family and faith tradition

• May be completed individually, with family, or as a unit activity

• Requires no religious instruction by the unit leader

• Advancement Credit: Participation satisfies the Reverence requirement for Cub Scouts to advance in rank. For Scouts BSA, it satisfies the Scout Spirit requirement to “Tell how you have done your duty to God.”

Our second annual Scouts Read Sacred Texts Worldwide event far exceeded expectations. Held during the week of May 1, 2025 (National Day of Prayer week), the event saw remarkable growth in participation and engagement.

Participation Growth

• 5,680 Scouts and youth participated (compared to 3,672 in 2024) — a 54% increase

• 2,365 total hours of reading (compared to 855 hours in 2024) — a 275% increase

• Most participants read at home with their families

Expanded Outreach

This year, we broadened our invitation beyond Scouting organizations to include all youth groups that share a faith in God. As a result, we welcomed participants from:

• 4-H, American Heritage Girls, Knights of Columbus, Campfire, Girl Scouts, and more!

Illowa Council is planning an in-person event – MORE INFO TO COME!