The Jewish Relationships Committee serves to maintain an open relationship, to assist in fulfilling the Scouting needs of Jewish institutions, and to meet the religious needs of Scouts and leaders of the Jewish faith.
The Committee will work with unit and district leaders in providing youth of the Jewish faith an opportunity to experience Scouting while maintaining their religious convictions. Adults will work with youth in earning their religious awards. The Shofar Award will be used to recognize outstanding efforts by adult leaders on behalf of youth of the Jewish faith. Representatives of all branches of Judaism will be involved to insure broad coverage of the Jewish community.
The committee also will,
- Provide Jewish services as requested by camporee and encampment committees (Jewish services are arranged through the Staff Advisor to the Committee).
- Encourage Cub Scouts, Scouts, and Explorers of the Jewish faith to work toward the earning of the Jewish religious awards.
- Review applications and select recipients for the Shofar Award. Shofar Awards will be presented during Scouting Anniversary Month (February).
- Encourage the extension of the Scouting program to potential Jewish institutions.
- Annually communicate with Rabbis of synagogues and temples in order to maintain cooperation with religious leaders.
JEWISH RELATIONSHIPS COMMITTEE GOOD TURN
Scouts are invited to place America flags on the graves of Jewish war veterans on Sunday, May 25, 2008. Read more on Memorial Day Good Turn...
JEWISH RELIGIOUS AWARDS
Maccabee Award: The Maccabee Award is presented to Tiger Cub Scouts, ages 7-8. A challenging achievement, it is the first religious award that a Jewish scout can earn. Maccabee Religious Emblem Requirements (PDF)
Aleph Award: Presented to Cub Scouts ages 8-10. These boys have shown an interest in learning about Jewish History and have included these teachings, not only in their Cub Activities, but in daily life. Aleph Religious Emblem Requirements (PDF)
Ner Tamid Award: The Ner Tamid Award is presented to Boy Scouts, Venturers and Explorers, ages 11-17. The Ner Tamid (Eternal Light) burns in all Temples and Synagogues, and is a beacon of Judaism to the people of the world. This award indicates the scouts love of Judaism through study and inclusion of Jewish values in their scouting life, as well as in everyday life. Ner Tamid Religious Emblem Requirements (PDF)
Etz Chaim Award (Tree of Life): Presented to Boy Scouts ages 14-17, Venturers ages 14-20 who have earned their Ner Tamid award. The purpose of this award is to encourage the young adult to explore adult Jewish roles in the context of family, community, and Jewish people. Etz Chaim Religious Emblem Requirements (PDF)
Shofar Award: Presented to adults who have answered the call to promote scouting among Jewish Boys. It recognizes their service to Jewish youth and the community through the scouting program. Shofar Award Nomination Form (PDF)
Contact:
Earl R. Binder,
Chairman, Jewish Relationships Committee
Greater St. Louis Area Council, B.S.A.
earlbinder@charter.net
Home: 636.256.6534