Dear Scout Parent(s),
I would like to introduce myself to you. My name is Charles “Chuck” McGathy. I am married to my wife, Toni and between the two of us we have seven kids, and three grandchildren. I have been the senior pastor at Madison’s First Baptist Church since 2006. Prior to that I served as a chaplain in the Navy and before that I was an Associate Pastor with responsibilities for youth in a church in Florida. I am a seminary graduate and have an earned doctorate degree.
I am also an Eagle Scout. Scouting was very important in my formative years. I can easily affirm that it helped me find, develop, and sustain an enduring faith. Though Scouting is not an overtly religious program, it does encourage young people to think about their relationship with God and see their lives as valuable gifts by which they can help make the world a better place.
Because of this I want to offer to your child and to you an opportunity to explore the meaning of faith as it relates to the scouting experience. There is within scouting (both boy and girl scouting) a highly desirable award. When I was a scout, it was called “God and Country” award. It was represented by handsome medal and a square knot patch to be worn upon the scout uniform. It signified an important accomplishment in the life of a scout. In fact, it really was more than a patch or medal, but an emblem that the scout had taken the time to explore and understand his spirituality. Then to embrace the hope of faith in such a way that the ups and downs of life might be met with an enduring faith that overcomes.
I am now in a position to help, a few scouts at a time through the faith building process. I can do more than teach, I can be a friend and mentor to care for your scout. Currently I have about 21scouts interested in earning the “God in Life” medal. I expect that number to grow, but in order to best do this I will just try and focus on about four scouts at a time. The experience will last about three months (12 sessions) and will involve engaging, meaningful activities. Included with that is the opportunity to learn, participate, and help lead Christian worship. Therefore, sessions will be from 10 to 12 on Sundays. Of course, camp outs and family needs will be respected, but for completion it will take 12 sessions.
There is no cost for materials. This represents no long-term commitment or super religiosity. Our church is small and informal, more like a family than a corporation. We do not pressure or cajole anyone. We really want to be your friend. Furthermore, some parents may want to come along with their scout and help the learning process. That is great! You are not only welcomed but encouraged to take part. There is even a special book for you.
The first scouts will officially begin in January of 2023. I will be saving a place for the initial four as soon as I hear from their parent or guardian. Please write to me, call me, or visit me in person. If you come to see me after 11:00 worship service on Sunday, I will be glad to spend time with you sharing the details of the “God in Life” experience.
Thanks, and I look forward to meeting you soon.
I would like to introduce myself to you. My name is Charles “Chuck” McGathy. I am married to my wife, Toni and between the two of us we have seven kids, and three grandchildren. I have been the senior pastor at Madison’s First Baptist Church since 2006. Prior to that I served as a chaplain in the Navy and before that I was an Associate Pastor with responsibilities for youth in a church in Florida. I am a seminary graduate and have an earned doctorate degree.
I am also an Eagle Scout. Scouting was very important in my formative years. I can easily affirm that it helped me find, develop, and sustain an enduring faith. Though Scouting is not an overtly religious program, it does encourage young people to think about their relationship with God and see their lives as valuable gifts by which they can help make the world a better place.
Because of this I want to offer to your child and to you an opportunity to explore the meaning of faith as it relates to the scouting experience. There is within scouting (both boy and girl scouting) a highly desirable award. When I was a scout, it was called “God and Country” award. It was represented by handsome medal and a square knot patch to be worn upon the scout uniform. It signified an important accomplishment in the life of a scout. In fact, it really was more than a patch or medal, but an emblem that the scout had taken the time to explore and understand his spirituality. Then to embrace the hope of faith in such a way that the ups and downs of life might be met with an enduring faith that overcomes.
I am now in a position to help, a few scouts at a time through the faith building process. I can do more than teach, I can be a friend and mentor to care for your scout. Currently I have about 21scouts interested in earning the “God in Life” medal. I expect that number to grow, but in order to best do this I will just try and focus on about four scouts at a time. The experience will last about three months (12 sessions) and will involve engaging, meaningful activities. Included with that is the opportunity to learn, participate, and help lead Christian worship. Therefore, sessions will be from 10 to 12 on Sundays. Of course, camp outs and family needs will be respected, but for completion it will take 12 sessions.
There is no cost for materials. This represents no long-term commitment or super religiosity. Our church is small and informal, more like a family than a corporation. We do not pressure or cajole anyone. We really want to be your friend. Furthermore, some parents may want to come along with their scout and help the learning process. That is great! You are not only welcomed but encouraged to take part. There is even a special book for you.
The first scouts will officially begin in January of 2023. I will be saving a place for the initial four as soon as I hear from their parent or guardian. Please write to me, call me, or visit me in person. If you come to see me after 11:00 worship service on Sunday, I will be glad to spend time with you sharing the details of the “God in Life” experience.
Thanks, and I look forward to meeting you soon.