Notes From The National Chaplain
My name is Father Gerard Gentleman, and I am proud Eagle Scout who is honored to serve as the National Chaplain for the National Catholic Committee on Scouting. I am a priest of the Diocese of Rockville Centre on Long Island, New York. I have previously served as Diocesan Chaplain, Chairman of the NCCS Chaplains Committee, Director of the NCCS Saint George Trek and Associate National Chaplain.
In my ministry as a priest, it is clear to me that Catholic Scouting is a vital ministry to and with youth and their families. In Christus Vivit, Pope Francis’ Apostolic Exhortation to young people and the adults who accompany them, the Holy Father writes:
“The community has an important role in the accompaniment of young people; it should feel collectively responsible for accepting, motivating, encouraging and challenging them. All should regard young people with understanding, appreciation, and affection, and avoid constantly judging them or demanding of them a perfection beyond their years.!” (CV #243)
Through our direct relationship to the USCCB and our partnership with the National Federation for Catholic Youth Ministry (NFCYM), we live the church’s mission in the units, structures, and programs of the Boy Scouts of America. It is essential, therefore, that our work be reflective of the fruits of Christus Vivit, the 2018 Synod on Young People, and the guidance of the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops (USCCB) in their framework for Ministry to Youth.
Through the dynamic pillars of Faith, Family, and Adventure the mission of Catholic Scouting is aligned with the parish’s mission, offering engaging and accessible ways to draw more families and young people into worship, faith formation, and other ministries. I encourage you, therefore, to explore the pathways of Catholic Scouting here on this webpage and at CatholicScouting.com.
Please reach out to me with questions, concerns, and ideas that will help to evangelize our youth, strengthen our families, and develop leaders in faith and community.
Thank you and may God Bless you for your ministry to and with young people through Catholic Scouting.
Father Gerard Gentleman
NCCS National Chaplain
(2022-2025)