Who We Are

The National Lutheran Association on Scouting (NLAS) serves as a vital link between the Church and the scouting community. As an organization officially recognized and endorsed by the Lutheran church, we provide a spiritual home and specialized resources for members of Scouting America, Girl Scouts USA, 4H, and Camp Fire USA.

We are a volunteer-led association composed of clergy, lay leaders, and scouting professionals who believe that a young person’s character is best forged when their “Duty to God” is integrated into their daily adventures. We work across Lutheran synods to ensure that scouting remains an effective outreach ministry for local congregations.

Mission

To equip Lutherans and other Christians to minister to young people, using the programs of our partner youth serving agencies.

We believe that scouting programs are not just extracurricular activities, but powerful platforms for youth ministry. By leveraging the proven structures of our partner youth-serving agencies, we help adult leaders:

  • Mentor youth through the lends of Christian stewardship
  • Facilitate religious emblems programs that deepen a scout’s understanding of the Lutheran faith.
  • Strengthen the bond between the local church and the community youth groups they charter.

Vision

That all young people and their families are exposed to Jesus Christ and have an opportunity to know Him as Lord and Savior.

We envision scouting as a “front door” to the Church, where lessons learned on the trail or around the campfire lead to a lifelong walk with Christ and a commitment to serving their neighbor in faith and love.

Related Resources:

†  Scouting for Lutheran Youth fact sheet developed in collaboration with Scouting Wire

 
The mission and vision statements were accepted by the NLAS Executive Board on October 12, 2002