Frequently Asked Questions

About Religious Programs for Youth

in Santa Clara County

 

 

1.      Do I have to belong to a church?

 

These are programs of the churches of different faiths and therefore must be completed under the auspices of a church (even if the youth does not have membership in a particular church).  A signature of a representative of the religious body is required on the program registration.

 

2.      What youth agencies use these programs?

 

Boy Scouts of America, Camp Fire Boys and Girls, and the Girl Scouts of the U.S.A use the programs.  Depending on the faith, boys and girls may work on the same program; other programs may be specific for Boy Scouts, Camp Fire and/or Girl Scouts.

 

3.      Do I have to belong to a youth agency?

 

For most faiths, religious projects are church programs.  Members of Sunday school classes, Vacation Bible Schools, Confirmation classes and other church groups are welcome to use these programs.  Check the project book for your faith for requirements.

 

4.      Who may serve as counselor?

 

Usually the pastor along with the parents or a lay person designated by the pastor serve as counselors.  Some faiths may require some form of counselor training.

 

5.      Does each student need a workbook?

 

Yes.  Students are required to keep a personal record of their progress.

 

6.      If I have already earned one award for my faith, may I earn another award for a different religion?

 

No.  Youth should only pursue the religious project for their own faith.

 

7.      If the religious growth program for my faith has more than one program (for different ages or grade levels), may I work on all of the programs?

 

Yes.  Students can earn all segments of their religious growth series provided they are in the appropriate grade/age level when they work on the program.  Since each segment is an independent unit, students do not have to start with the first program but rather would work on the program based on their grade/age.

 

8.      Where can I get more information about religious programs for youth?

 

·         Boy Scout/Cub Scout programs contact: Ann Resch (408)227-8587; a.resch@att.net

·         Camp Fire programs contact: Ann Resch (408)227-8587; a.resch@att.net

·         Girl Scout programs contact: Susie Henderson (408)287-4170 ext. 246; shenderson@girlscoutsofscc.org