Boy Scout Troop 66 Celebrates Scout Sunday with Matawan United Methodist Church

The Boy Scouts of America designates the Sunday that falls before February 8th (Scouting Anniversary Day) as Scout Sunday, which is the primary date to recognize the contributions of young people and adults to Scouting. The Scout Sunday tradition was started to make people in houses of worship aware of Scouting, and to allow Scouts to live out their “Duty to God” pledged each week. The Scout Law says that a “Scout is Reverent” and Scouts of all ages promise to do their “Duty to God”. These values strengthen youth character in their family, community and faith. Cub Scouts, Boy Scouts and Venturers who have earned religious emblems during the past year are recognized on this weekend.

On Sunday February 19th, the Matawan Methodist Church hosted the Troop for Scout Sunday. Approximately 20 scouts, along with a few sibling Cub Scouts, opened the service by marching in, leading the Pledge of Allegiance and reciting the Scout Oath and Scout Law. Troop 66’s Senior Patrol Leader, Stephen C. then recited a statement on Scouting by Lord Baden-Powell, one of the founders of The Boy Scouts of America in 1910. The Troop then participated in a candle lighting ceremony where twelve scouts recited one point of the scout law.

Pastor Federico A. Quezada spoke of how helpful the Boy Scouts have been to their Chartering organization and the various service projects they have undertaken. In the past the Troop has refinished the front railing, restored the prayer garden outside, repaired lighting fixtures as well as assisting with the Christmas Toy Sale and the Thrift Shop. One of the Troop’s ongoing projects is the monthly food pantry drives to assist the local community. A recent Eagle project by Robert L. refurbished and created additional shelving units to improve the capacity and meet the needs of the food pantry.

After the service, the Church surprised the Troop with a delicious cake and refreshments. This year marks the 60th Birthday of Troop 66.

Troop 66 was founded in 1957 in Matawan, NJ and provides an active year round outdoor program for boys in 5th grade and above. Scoutmaster Bob Shea has lead the troop for over 30 years and, along with this Assistant Scoutmasters, reinforces the ideals put forth in the Scout Oath and Scout Law. Troop 66 gives back to the local community by conducting food drives, participating in civic events, volunteering at municipal events and completing Eagle projects to assist local organizations and clubs.

Troop 66 meets weekly on Wednesday evenings during the School year from 7:30-9:00pm at the Matawan United Methodist Church. The Church is located on the corner of Atlantic Avenue and Church Street in Matawan. If you are interested in Scouting, please visit our website at http://www.troop66matawan.com or find us on Facebook at http://www.facebook.com/Troop66Matawan.