04/21/2025
"It is with sadness that we join people of all faiths around the world in mourning the passing of Pope Francis. His unwavering dedication to service, compassion and global unity has been a beacon of inspiration for individuals of all faiths.
In his address to the 2022 International Catholic Conference of Scouting, Pope Francis stated, “Scouts are called to be a force for renewal in the Church and society.” His emphasis on values such as kindness, respect and service to others resonates deeply with the principles embedded in the Scout Oath and Law.
The relationship between Scouting America and the Catholic Church has a rich and enduring history. Today, there are more than 3,270 Catholic-sponsored Scouting units, with 68,330 youth playing a vital role across our organization.
We are grateful for Pope Francis's messages of encouragement to young people and his reminders of the importance of instilling strong values. We extend our deepest prayers and condolences to all those who are grieving this loss."
Roger Krone
Chief Scout Executive, President, and CEO of Scouting America
