Re: Prayer Policy

In your message of 20 Aug 1995 at 1929 EDT, you write:
> On 95-08-18 12:11:54 EDT, JHS8@VM1.UCC.OKSTATE.EDU (Jim Sleezer) said:
>
> >BTW, some of us might suggest that the following is not appropriate.
> > "Let us not presume to know how the Creator prefers to be
> > honored. Let Him decide the worthiness of our prayers."
> >Some would suggest that the decision belongs to HER!
>
> Very true, some might, but not anyone who believes in the Declaration of
> Religious Principle of the B.S.A., as shown in the inside cover of the Adult
> Registration Application (Publication Number 28-501J, version 1.935MM394);
> the following is a partial quote:
>
> "The recognition of God as the ruling and leading power in the universe and
> the grateful acknowledgement of His favors and blessings ...."
>
> That pretty much seems to eliminate female deities, as well as polytheistic
> religions. I welcome correction if I am wrong, but at the start that seems
> to eliminate Hindus from joining the B.S.A., as well as Wiccans.
>

Here we go again on a theological dicussion based on taking absolute
positions based on the use of conveinent terms. Whether we use the
term him, her or it we are trying to do the impossible. Within the
admitted imperfections of our limited humanity we are attempting to
define and label perfection. I doubt if it is or would ever be able to
fully define, label or even begin to understand a completely supreme
and perfect being. Our acceptance of the existence of God is justly
called 'Faith".

But, lets not get wrapped around the axle in trying to do the
impossible. The need for a belief in God drives toward the moral base
upon which we build the scout laws and positive principals we try to
teach in every aspect of scouting. I would seriously doubt if BP
meant for us to become theologians.

-Steve

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