"The church needs its own program."

I have heard this from so many people. Most of these people either inherited this attitude from parents (possibly unknowingly) or the scouting program didn't "work" for them, a brother, a son, a husband. Oftentimes it's both, because if one or more of your parents doesn't like the scouting program, it's very likely it won't work out for you. Scouting is primarily a family-based program, so if the family is not involved, it just isn't the same.

Often scouting doesn't "work out" because it is not implemented correctly. This is why it is so important for parents and leaders to learn everything they can about the program. Leaders should attend the training courses, and parents should get involved. (Ambitious parents can even take training courses.) Church leaders have emphasized the importance of registering and training all scout leaders, and the Church Handbook on Scouting states that stake and ward leaders should ensure that everyone with a calling in scouts gets proper training.

The Important of Woodbadge Training by Charles W. Dalhquist

In fact, training is the first thing mentioned in a recent newsletter message by the Young Men's General Presidency. The message specifically talks, point-by-point, about why the church uses the scouting program. The very first point listed is: "It provides an outstanding training program for adults on how to successfully guide young men to achieve their very best. Many have said that, 'Scouting is for the boy.' In reality it is for the adult. Boy Scouts of America provides the training, programs, and resources necessary to help adults effectively prepare young men for today and their future." They go on to list three more reasons the church makes use of the Boy Scout program. This is a message I recommend everyone read and share.

I like to remind people that there are plenty of young women our there for whom "Personal Progress" didn't "work." Some women don't care for Relief Society or its activities. Does this mean the church should stop using those programs, because they don't work for everyone? Of course not.

All of the programs the church uses are inspired by God, including the scouting program. He is the one running this church, and I think He knows what He is doing. Oftentimes imperfect people or our own bad attitudes keep us from reaping the full benefits of the programs. It is important not to dwell on past experience, but to always move forward in faith.

Did you know that the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints was the first ever chartered organization of the Boy Scouts of America? From the beginning the program has been inspired. Church leadership also works closely with the National Board to keep the program running in a way that will work for LDS and non-LDS scouters alike. The Primary General President and Young Men General President both serve on the National Board. Did you know that President Monson has served on the National Scouting Board longer than any other person? Ever.

President Benson (and others) told us that, "The prophet will never lead the Church astray." Is it possible that nearly 100 years of prophets have all been deceived on this one thing? Please remember, the prophet is not the head of the Church, just His mouthpiece.