Notes From the National Chairman
Greetings Catholic Scouters!
My name is John Anthony.
As a boy growing up in the Diocese of Allentown, in Pennsylvania, I was fortunate to be a member of Troop 74 charted to Saint Catherine of Sienna Parish. My experience was Blessed thanks to outstanding adult leadership. As an Eagle Scout and Order of the Arrow recipient, I served as a staff member for seven years at various local camps. Upon graduation from Allentown College of Saint Francis de Sales, Center Valley, Pennsylvania, which incidentally is where I met my wife, I started my career as a professional Scouter in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. During this time, I received a Masters of Social Services Degree from Murray State University. I have served as Scout Executive in Binghamton, New York and Miami Lakes. Florida. In addition, for thirteen years I gave leadership at the National level to the BSA Learning for Life Program.
The adventure continued after retirement. I was asked to serve as membership chair for National Catholic Committee on Scouting eight years ago. Little did I know what God had planned for me upon my work retirement. I feel honored to undertake the role of Chairperson to the National Catholic Committee on Scouting. I dedicate my time and talents from God to the advancement of Catholic Youth Ministry through Scouting.
On the popular show “The Chosen”, which follows the life of Jesus Christ, in Season 1, episode 7, Jesus invites Matthew to follow him. Matthew replies, “Who me?” to which Jesus responds, “Yes, you.” Peter queries, “What are you doing? He is a tax collector!” Jesus says, “Get use to different.”
When I reflect on the phrase ‘Get use to different’ Scouting comes to mind. As a boy, I joined Scouting in 1964. The program has changed over the years. However, the foundation of Catholic Scouting has not wavered. Each time that we participate in Catholic Scouting, we engage in these principles of our faith, the love of God and family and the thrill of adventure.
Recently the director of youth ministry for the Diocese of Fort Worth pointed out to me that ‘Scout leaders spend more time with the youth of their parish than do their local directors’. I thought about his comment and came to the realization that he was certainly correct.
We as Catholic Scout Leaders need to be worthy examples to today’s youth. In time, these individuals will be the leaders of our Catholic Church as clergy or lay leaders.
We are called to serve. They deserve our “best”.
I hope that you will join us on this journey.
Faith-Family-Adventure.
Visit our additional website at: catholicscouting.com and learn about the foundation of Catholic Scouting.
John Anthony
NCCS – National Chair 2022-2025