Traditionally, the second Sunday in February is used to recognize Boy Scout Sunday, while the second Sunday in March is Girl Scout Sunday. Most churches find it difficult to recognize each organization separately, so use one Scout Sunday to recognize both. Some churches trade back and forth between February and March and take turns recognizing the Scouts. Some, due to set schedules, may come up with a different date to honor Scouts. Whatever day is used, Scout Sunday may be used to recognize youth of ALL organizations, such as Camp Fire Boys and Girls, 4-H, Indian Guides and Princess, in addition to Boy and Girl Scouts.

Like many things in life, Scout Sunday is one of those things that may “sneak” up Scout leaders and church officials. Planning far in advance can use a more meaningful recognition and a larger part in the service. This entails a leader or parent requesting consideration of Scout Sunday many months prior to the actual date. Most churches plan worship services far in advance, and the request may need to go through a separate committee as well as the priest, minister, rabbi or other clergy representative. The sooner that approval can be given, the more successful the worship service will be. For churches that have never undertaken such a service, it is best to keep the involvement to a minimum at first, such as having the youth be greeters and ushers.

The church and/or worship committee will confirm (or select) a date. Announcements should be made to the congregation prior to the event so that Scouts and Scouters know to attend in uniform, even if they have no active part in the event. Depending on the size of the church and the number of services, Scout Sunday may be divided between the organizations; such as Cubs doing one service, Girl Scouts one service and Boy Scouts a service.

If enough time is allowed into the planning, it may be possible for a youth member to be selected to give a short speech about what Scouting has meant to him/her. The youth can participate by being greeters, ushers, lead in responsive readings and possibly give a short prayer. The member of the clergy and/or the worship committee should review any speech, prayer, responsive reading, benediction, etc. .

A short part of the worship service should allow for recognitions of church members whom :-

• are currently in a youth organization.
• have ever participated in a youth organization as a child.
• are currently serving as leaders.
• have received the adult award for service to their church

Some churches time their presentation of the religious awards that the youth can earn to be done on Scout Sunday.  Minimally, it is a good time to announce such a program and let the youth know that it is available through the church.
The Scout Oath and Scout Law can be used as a basis for a responsive reading. A Girl Scout leader can help determine what is comparable for Girl Scouts. If the church has a flag, a flag ceremony can be done with the Christian flag, unit flag and U.S. Flag.

Scout Sunday is always a good time to reinforce to the boys that “A Scout is Reverent“.