From the piece (my emphasis):
Perhaps even more momentous was the acknowledgment that scouting itself
had moved on, with a diversity of thought like the multicultural and
sexually diverse buzz of modern America itself, that no longer could be
confined or defined by a dictated policy from headquarters. Local
chapters would be able to decide whether to admit gay scouts.
“The Boy Scouts would not, under any circumstances, dictate a position
to units, members, or parents,” said a spokesman for the Boy Scouts of
America, Deron Smith, in a statement. “This would mean there would no
longer be any national policy regarding sexual orientation, and the
chartered organizations that oversee and deliver Scouting would accept
membership and select leaders consistent with each organization’s
mission, principles, or religious beliefs.”
Translation: Mormons, who make up the largest group within Scouting -- by far -- will be able to continue to exclude gays from their troops.
This is kind of a big deal, because when I was in Scouts other leaders had told me that the LDS had made it known -- in no uncertain terms -- that it would bolt the organization if "National" changed its policy on gays.
So a compromise must have been made here: while Mormons can keep their troops the way they want, the rest can admit gays, or not, depending on each individual troop's preference. (Makes sense to me.)
Now while my old troop will probably continue to not care about gays, and the LDS troop down the road will continue to care about gays, it makes me wonder: How will the troop sponsored by the local Catholic parish react?
This could actually be a crucial moment for American Catholics.
So far, the Church has been confused on the issue. While it's not a sin to be a homosexual, it is sinful to act upon it. Huh? (That's kind of like saying it's okay to be left-handed so long as you write with your right hand.)
So how will the Catholic Church decide on gays in the Scouts? Will the decision be handed down from Rome, or will each parish get to make its own choice? (I think the question answers itself.)
This could actually be a watershed moment for American Catholics. Finally, they will have to choose: To discriminate against gays and lesbians, or not.
P. S. No, that's not me in the picture above. A free hot dog and fries, though, for anyone who can identify the founder of Scouting.
2 comments:
Lord Baden-Powell.
We have a winner!
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