Scouting at St Matthias News - Dec 2010

The 32nd St. Matthias Scouting movement continues to be a very vibrant and outdoor-focused group. Again this year, all sections are fully subscribed, with waiting lists. In total there are nearly 70 youth aged 5-16 who come to St. Matthias weekly for Scout programming. We also have 15 adult leaders who are supporting the programming across the Beaver Scout (ages 5-7), Cub Scout (ages 8-10), and Scout (11-14) sections.

 

The latter section has more than tripled in size this year, largely due to the adventurous programming being offered. For example, the fall began with a couple of hikes - including a weekend climb to the fire tower in Gatineau Park – which helped prepare them for our most ambitious venture yet: climbing in the Adirondacks, in upper New York State. Thanks to the advance logistical work of Scouter Dan (Gates), we sailed through the border without any problems. We had set a goal to get every single one of the Scouts in attendance to the top of two mountains over two days - and that goal was accomplished! The kids responded admirably to the 8+ hours of hiking each day, providing encouragement for those who faltered, and, on occasion carrying the loads for others. They learned a lot that weekend, not only about mountain climbing, but about the importance of teamwork, eating proper food for fuel, and maintaining a positive attitude.

 

The rest of the fall has been spent teaching the Scouts skills that will see them through the next few years, with some early application at our camp in late November on the shores of Christie Lake just west of Perth. The theme of this camp was "self sufficiency" - meaning each Scout was expected to carry all their own gear, food and shelter to the remote camp, set up the camp, cook their meals and break down the camp at the end of the weekend. Once again, they completed their tasks with enthusiasm and a growing sense of independence.

 

A sure sign of the evolution and popularity of our program is evidenced by the presence of our first full-time paid (in please and thank you’s) camp cook (Helen Dowd)! She reports that, the St. Matthias kitchen has been the planning headquarters for the 32nd Cook Crew since the autumn of 2009. In that lovely, large space volunteer cooks have hatched plans for the feeding of Cubs, Scouts and their fearless leaders at various camp locations. We've been to Camp Legewade, Camp Awacamenj Mino and lately Camp Opemikon. With each camp, I have appreciate more and more, the perseverance of our ancestors who made do without cars, running water, indoor plumbing, electricity and cell phones. Each camp has been an adventure and learning experience, but as the meals are served, we are rewarded by that great moment when the 'silent salute' is given, those precious few seconds when people are too busy eating to talk. From Cubs and Scouts, that is high praise indeed!

 

The Scout Group is looking forward Scout Sunday in February, followed (possibly) by a 32nd Scouting open house for all Parishioners. The entire 32nd Group remains grateful to Joan and the Parish of St. Matthias for their unwavering support and use of space. We could not deliver this important and successful program without you!