The Catholic Diocese of Rockford is asking churches to continue to keep charters with the Boy Scouts of America. Bishop David Malloy is responding to the new policy that says scouts cannot be denied membership based on sexual orientation. The Chicago Tribune reported a church in Crystal Lake severed ties with a Boy Scout group over the change.
Spokesperson Penny Wiegert says the Diocese hopes to continue partnering in the formation of men:
“The requirements, both in the Boy Scout law and the Boy Scout oath, are consistent thus far with the teachings of the Catholic Church as far as moral behavior.”
Currently, 42 scouting units are sponsored by Catholic parishes or organizations within the Rockford Diocese.