Vespers

Some years ago we started having ‘vespers’ every Saturday evening when the troop is camping. The term ‘vespers’ is Latin for ‘evening’.

I begin by saying " each time we are together camping we set aside some time to recall that part of the scout oath that pledges our duty to god and that part of the scout law in which we promise to be reverent."

I then relate some inspirational thought I had during our camp-out that helps the scouts focus on why we are doing what we are doing concluding with ‘that’s what I was thinking about today, what was everyone else thinking about?’. At this point several scouts usually have something to say. The discussion is open, but guided, so that we reflect on not only the events of the day, but the reasons we are scouts and the intention of our activities. We conclude by sharing a moment of silence.

I feel that this observance provides an opportunity for all expressions of belief.

I see that moment of silence as more powerful and appropriate than leading a prayer because it is totally incumbent on the individual to participate in a way they find meaningful.