BRING YOUTH TO CHRIST THROUGH A SCOUTING MINISTRY

The chaplaincy team for the 2024 summer camping season at Philmont Scout Ranch was one of the best in recent memory, according to R. Chip Turner, the Chaplain Coordinator. In addition to conducting daily worship services in the various chapels located in camping headquarters, the chaplains rotated responsibility for the eight ongoing assignments throughout the ranch. Final selection of the 2025 team is expected soon. 

 Two exciting new developments will be included in the 2025 season for chaplains: 

Dale Copeland will serve as Associate Chaplain Coordinator. Dale has held several Philmont staff positions in past years, including being a chaplain on the 2023 team. At the conclusion of the 2025 season, Dale will become the new Philmont Chaplain Coordinator. Chip Turner said of Dale: “I am so pleased that Dale is willing to accept this role for upcoming seasons. A prime concern of mine in choosing to “retire” as coordinator in August, 2025, was finding the right person to take Philmont chaplaincy to a new level. Dale’s vast experience in Scouting at every level from local unit to national, linked with a vision for Philmont chaplaincy ideally qualifies him for this role. He will have no greater supporter than I.” 

Thanks to the visionary leadership of the ABS board, the organization will fund a Baptist Chaplain Intern for the 2025 season. This will not only give a seminary student extremely valuable experience in further preparation for vocational ministry but will also help expand the possibilities for additional ministries during the summer camping season. More details on the role and the person to be selected will be available in coming weeks. 

The 2026 National Jamboree will be here soon 

and the ABS is already planning for another 

successful opportunity to share our faith with 

Scouts from across the nation in the Faith & 

Beliefs program area. In 2023 there were 

several Scout youth serving in the booth and it 

was a BIG hit as they connected with 

thousands of young people and many adults. It 

is not surprising that young people connect and 

relate best with others their age. And it is an 

amazing opportunity for Baptist youth staff to 

engage with others about faith issues while 

polishing their own leadership skills.