Venturer, Explorer Programs Optional

Local wards and branches now have the option of whether or not to maintain Venturer and Explorer posts for young men ages 14 through 17, the Presiding Bishopric has announced.

Wards and branches will continue to sponsor cub packs and scout troops, but the local priesthood leadership, in conjunction with the stake or mission president, will decide whether to continue to register Venturers and Explorers with the Boy Scouts of America or to use another program better suited to meet the needs of the youth involved.

Literature explaining the options and the relationship of the Church with the Boy Scouts of America has been sent to the local priesthood authorities for consideration before registration time. According to the Presiding Bishopric, in most instances the Venturing and Exploring programs will be selected as those most appropriate for the young men involved.

The Church, connected with the Boy Scouts of America for 62 years, harmonizes with the objectives of the Church the ideals of scouting, which foster citizenship training, physical fitness, and moral integrity based upon a firm belief in God.