What Does Sinoquipe Mean to Me by Jack Rhodes

What does Sinoquipe mean to me?

When asked this question my immediate reaction was how much time do you have to hear my story? There are so many fond memories and emotions that I cannot possibly share them all.

Shortly after Patty, CJ and I moved to Fulton County in 1988 to begin my position at JLG industries, we took a drive to explore the beautiful area we now call home. We found ourselves at the northern end of the county. We stopped at an old abandoned 1800’s farmhouse with an old Chevy truck on a property in need of a lot of TLC.   My comment at the time was “I could live here they have a wood stove. Patty’s response was “no way could I ever live here.” 

Within a few months I replied to an ad in the local paper for a Camp Ranger position with the Boy Scouts of America. During the interview process I was told no decision would be made until candidates had an opportunity to visit the camp and assess the living accommodations. Low and behold the address led us to the old abandoned farm house with the old Chevy truck in the driveway. This time with key in hand we toured our future home. There was a lot of family discussion/opposition on how could we possibly live in this house with a 6 year old and newborn!

CJ and I decided with a lot  of work, new paint, new carpet, a thorough cleaning and persistent pleading we could persuade Patty into this new adventure for our family. I began my career in Scouting in December 1989.

Sinoquipe had been without a Ranger for over a year. Volunteers had been the only work force within that time. There was a lot to learn and a lot to be done.

It did not take long to witness the Scouting spirit. We were so blessed to meet such kind and dedicated Scouters, who we consider some of our most treasured friends today.  One of the most important things that had an impact on me throughout my Scouting career is the genuine caring and kindness that is exemplified in the Scouting movement. This remains a beacon of hope for me when I look to the future of our youth.

Numerous times I have been fortunate to witness God’s hand at work at Sinoquipe. Early in my time at Sinoquipe, I would scratch my head and wonder how could this impossible situation or issue be resolved? Now, I bow my head and give thanks for God’s divine intervention. 

Sinoquipe is more than just a place; it is a spirit that lives within anyone who chooses to adopt the spirit. From the wildlife that thrives here, to the healthy waterways, plant species and forest land, we are fortunate to deliver a Scouting program on this beautiful parcel of land. It is imperative we as a Council protect and preserve this property for future generations. I am and will remain dedicated to the preservation of our beloved camp.

One of the most gratifying  moments for me is when a young man who is now a father knocks on my door with his son and asks if I remember him and proceeds to share with me how his experiences at  camp had an impact on his life. I have learned the most valuable thing any of us can do is to guide a young man along the path to a moral, ethical and spiritual life. In turn, they will pass that on and our legacy will continue.

To sum up “what Sinoquipe means to me?” Sinoquipe provides a place to appreciate and enjoy the splendor of nature while learning life skills. My family has been blessed to be raised at Sinoquipe and call it home. 

When growing up my parents taught us you should not love inanimate objects. I think it is safe to say, I love Sinoquipe, as it is a living entity.

Thanks to all the great Scouting folks I have met along the way in my journey through life at Sinoquipe!

God Bless each and every one of you,

Ranger Jack

The More Things Change, the More Some Things Remain the Same.

A Scout is Reverent by Norman Rockwell

Scouting has a continuing commitment to encourage moral, ethical, and spiritual growth. In the Scout Oath, “duty to God” reminds everyone that a Scout is reverent. That will always remain a core value and an immutable tenet of the Boy Scouts of America.

The Scout Oath begins with “duty to God” and the Scout Law ends with a Scout's obligation to be “Reverent.” 

This has been and still is the foundation for Scouts to be “Reverent.”

Although the Boy Scouts of America is a nonsectarian organization advocating a devout belief in a deity through the Scout Oath and Law, Article IX, Section 1, Clause 1 in the Charter and Bylaws states in part, “The Boy Scouts of America maintains that no boy can grow into the best kind of citizen without recognizing an obligation to God,” in essence being “Reverent.”

The BSA expects its members to accept the religious principles as stated in the bylaws, the Scout Oath and Law, and the application for membership.

With that said, what does it really means for a Scout to be Reverent?

FOR THE SCOUT: Being Reverent means the Scout should faithfully follow the religious duties, and responsibilities instructed by his parents or guardian and/or his religious institution. Because Scouts are associated with people of different faiths, it is also imperative that Scouts recognize the religious beliefs of other Scouts and respect those beliefs. While the BSA does not define what constitutes belief in God or the practice of religion, nor require membership in a religious organization or association for enrollment in the Scout movement it does prefer, and strongly encourages, membership and participation in the religious programs and activities of a church, synagogue, or other religious association. The BSA believes in religious freedom, and expects Scouts to respect others whose practicing religion may differ from theirs. Scouting embraces the right of all to worship God in their own way and encourages each individual Scout to be obligated to their faith.  

FOR THE SCOUT LEADER: Being Reverent means the Scout leaders, without being sectarian, should be accommodating in their religious influence, encouraging each Scout to be openly faithful with their own particular religious obligations. Leaders should model a standard where the Scout can, without distraction, live out their lives according to the ideas of their faith and work towards earning the duty to God religious emblem of their faith while in the Scout Program.

Scout outings and other activities that span weekends should include an up front announced opportunity for Scouts to meet their religious obligations. If services for members of each faith will not be available, the BSA recommends an interfaith service.

As you consider such a service, keep in mind that some religions have specific requirements that cannot be fulfilled through an interfaith service, and other arrangements might be necessary for Scouts of those faiths. Any scripture readings, prayers, hymns, and other parts of an interfaith service must be considerate of the beliefs of all those present.

No matter what the religious faith of the Scout may be, this fundamental need of the Scout should be kept before them. The Boy Scouts of America, therefore, recognizes the religious element in the training of the member, but is absolutely nonsectarian in its attitude towards that religious training. Although the Boy Scouts of America maintains that no member can grow into the best kind of citizenship without recognizing an obligation to God its policy is that the home and the religious organization with which the Scout is connected shall give definite attention to religious life.

Statements by Lord Baden-Powell, Founder of Scouting:

"There is no religious "side" of the movement. The whole of it is based on religion, that is, on the realization and service of God." 

"Let us, therefore, in training our Scouts, keep the higher aims in the forefront, not let ourselves get too absorbed in the steps. Don't let the technical outweigh the moral. Field efficiency, back woodsmanship, camping, hiking, Good Turns, jamboree comradeship are all means, not the end. The end is CHARACTER with a purpose."

Pastor Scott Johnston

Camp Sinoquipe Chaplain

Scout Sunday

The first week of February is often referred to as Scouting Anniversary Week to commemorate the founding of the Boy Scouts of America and the issuing of our National Charter from Congress. The first Sunday in February is called SCOUT SUNDAY.

Scout Sunday is celebrated by thousands of scouts each year at Churches & Synagogues across the United States. Here are 25 ideas you can incorporate into activities this year:

1. If your unit is sponsored by a Church, arrive together & in Uniform - During the service sit together at the front of the pews. This will allow the congregation to see you and make your unit more visible to church members.
2. If the church you attend does not have a Scouting program, come to Church in your Scout Uniform. Many pastors are aware of Scout Sunday and will discuss it at some point in the service. Often there will be quite a number of Scouts and Adults in uniform at this service. If possible, share your plans with your pastor, rabbi, or minister so they will be aware of Scout Sunday.
3. Have your Scouts serve as Ushers during the service
4. Have Scouts serve as Altar Bearers during the processional. Depending on your church's beliefs & customs, it may be appropriate to bring in the colors during the service
5. Have scouts lead the congregation in the responsive readings or as lectors when bible verses are to be read. If appropriate, choose from among several that incorporate the Scout Oath or Law.
6. Have a display in the hallway about scouting or present Scouting on a bulletin board. Try to sign up new members for your Pack or Troop
7. Have a Saturday Night lock-in at the church, perhaps arrange a model campsite. It will attract a lot of attention on Sunday morning and many church members will want to visit the campsite and ask questions about the troop.
8. Have the scouts be in charge of the refreshments. Make it even more interesting by having the scouts cook some of their Dutch oven favorites
9. Present a plaque of the Eagle Scouts from the Church Sponsored unit or try to schedule an Eagle Scout Ceremony either as a part of the church service or immediately after. These are impressive events and will draw the interest of your church members.
10. Have members of the Congregation who were in Scouting or are Eagle Scouts Stand Up. You may also want to ask Girl Scout Members or those who have earned the Gold Award to also stand.
11. Use Scout Sunday to award religious emblems that your scouts have earned. For more information on the specific awards for your religious faith visit http://bsa.scouting.org/awards/religious/index.html
12. Present Adult Leader Religious Award recognitions. These awards are by nomination only. It is a great way to recognize members of the congregation who have been involved
13. Consider having the Charter formerly presented by the Pastor or a Local Scouting official to the Church. (if the actual 2011 charter is not available yet, you can use last years!)
14. Earn your Church's Religious Award for the Unit. Most church sponsored units can earn a special recognition for unit itself that is very similar to a BSA Quality Unit Award. Check with your church body's Scouting Committee to see what the requirements for the award are for your faith.
15. If you have been a Scouter long enough, chances are you have a cabinet full of Coffee Mugs. Consider donating them to the church's pantry. During the refreshment break after church all of the parishioners will be drinking coffee, talking to each other, and will be looking directly at your Scouting Coffee mugs for years to come - it is a great way to remind all in the church that there is a Scout Troop there.
16. Conduct a Scouting for Food drive as a part of Scout Week. Let the congregation know that your troop will be collecting canned goods and other non perishable items before and after the service.
17. Conduct a Service Project Work Day after the service. There are often many projects that need help at a church and a Sunday afternoon may be a great time so do some of these. A churched based Eagle Project is often a great event to schedule on a Scout Sunday.
18. Let your more responsible Scouts offer to run the church's Nursery during the service so the regular members can worship with their families.
19. Have your Troop Historian prepare a photo spread of your troop and have the pictures on display as members enter the church so they can see what scouts do.
20. Does your church give scouts a separate building to hold meetings in? Try having an open house with the scouts demonstrating various skills. Have refreshments served there so everyone will stop by after the service to see what scouts can do.
21. If appropriate, have one of your scouts deliver a message or sermon during the service.
22. Some units have a program where scouts are recognized for wearing their uniforms to church on a regular basis.
23. Construct and erect a sign on the church property noting that the church sponsors a Scout Troop, Pack, Girl Scouts, etc. with meeting times. The sign is a great way to build community awareness about Scouting.
24. Consider using the BSA's Church Bulletin covers to print the Church Bulletin on. Supply Division has several excellent selections that will add a lot to the service.
25. Have the Troop's Chaplain Aide offer one of the prayers during the service.

Meet Scott Paddack our District Director

Q: How long have you worked for the Mason-Dixon Council?

Scott: 12 years

 

Q: What is your favorite part about your job as a Professional Scouter?

Scott: Working with the kids.

Q: What is your Scouting background?

Scott: I was a Cub Scout earned my Arrow of Light, crossed over to troop 10.  Was active there ad's troop 4 & 99 through high school

Q: What is your fondest Scouting memories?

Scott: Being a den leader, assistant Scoutmaster, Wood Badge and national jamboree staff on QBSA radio.

Q: What all are you involved in, in the community?

Scott: Citizenship Chairman in the Antietam Exchange, Youth Group Leader at Trinity Lutheran Church, 32 degree Mason, Parent Guild at  Barbara Ingram School for the Arts, Coordinator for my church at REACH.  I help out were I can.

 

Q: Do you have any hobbies or interest outside of Scouting?

Scott: I like wood working and carving, graphics and art.

Q: Anything message you would like to send out the Scouters in our Council?

Scott: Scouting works because we all work hard together.