Knights of Columbus Council 961 is working with other organizations to promote an initiative to encourage youth to read the Bible and other sacred texts.
The event, which includes “Youth Read Sacred Texts Worldwide” and “Scouts Read Sacred Texts,” is planned in conjunction with the U.S. National Day of Prayer on May 7. It originated with Scouting America’s National Religious Relationships Committee in 2024 and has grown into a worldwide invitation to all youth to set aside time to read a sacred text from their religion.
The invitation has broadened this year to include all youth groups that share a faith in God, including 4-H, American Heritage Girls, Knights of Columbus, Campfire, Girl Scouts and others, according to the organization’s website.
The local Knights are encouraging all parish youth groups to get involved, not just scouts.
“I think it is a great opportunity for youth to participate individually or as a youth group or group of friends to study their Bible at least on May 7, if not beyond,” said Grand Knight Bob Rueter, chair of the St. Cloud Diocese’s Committee on Scouting.
The initiative encourages youth to engage Sacred Scripture as part of their spiritual formation, discipleship and growth in holiness.
“In the Catholic Tradition, Sacred Scripture is at the heart of the life of the Church, proclaimed in the liturgy, studied in catechesis and reflected upon in personal and family prayer,” said Jim Marchbank, chair of Youth Read Sacred Texts Worldwide, in a letter to families and parish leaders. “Reading and meditating on the Word of God helps young people grow in faith, deepen their relationship with Christ and discern God’s call in their lives.”
Last year, youth in 43 states and 14 international locations participated representing 26 different faiths. This year’s goal is for youth from all 50 states to participate and to double the international locations represented, the organization’s website said.
Youth are encouraged to read during the first week of May, though they can participate whenever it’s convenient. They typically read at home with their families, choosing sections recommended by their parents or faith leaders, Marchbank said, and the time commitment is flexible – Cub Scouts might read for 1-5 minutes, while older youth may read up to an hour.
For Scouts, participation satisfies the reverence requirement for Cub Scouts to advance in rank. For Scouts BSA, it satisfies the Scout spirit requirement to “Tell how you have done your duty to God.”
To register or for more information, visit: Https://ScoutsReadSacredTextsWorldwide.org or Https://YouthReadSacredTextsWorldwide.org