Prayers and Graces for Scouts

A Scout is reverent. This means they show respect for God and the beliefs of others. In Scouting, we encourage young people to practice this in simple ways. One way is through prayer. Prayers and graces help Scouts take a moment to be thankful and to think about what really matters. These little moments of reflection help build a habit of gratitude and respect. Whether it’s at the start of a meeting or before a meal, a short prayer helps center the group.

You don’t need a long or fancy prayer. Just a few thoughtful words can make a big difference. Scouts can take turns leading a prayer. This builds confidence and gives them a chance to take on a leadership role. It’s also a nice way to include everyone. Even the youngest Cub Scouts can say a simple prayer with the group. As they grow, they might start writing their own prayers to share.

Prayers are not just for church. In Scouting, we pray at many times—at meetings, on campouts, before big events, and during Scout’s Own services. These moments help remind Scouts that reverence doesn’t only happen in a building. It can happen outdoors, around a campfire, or even sitting on a log. God is with us everywhere, and prayers help us notice that.

Prayers can also help with transitions. After a busy activity or just before everyone heads to bed, a short prayer can quiet the group and create a peaceful mood. Sometimes Scouts are nervous about campouts or new experiences. A calming prayer can help them feel safe and supported. It helps them remember they are not alone and that they are part of something bigger.

Scouting is for youth from many different religious backgrounds. So it’s important to choose prayers that are respectful and open. Prayers that focus on values like peace, kindness, and thankfulness work well for all faiths. The goal is not to push one belief but to give space for quiet reflection. This way, everyone can feel welcome and included.

There are some prayers that work well in almost any Scouting setting. It is helpful to keep these types of prayers short and easy to remember. This makes it easier for younger Scouts to join in. A prayer doesn’t need to be fancy to be meaningful. A simple prayer said with heart can speak louder than a long one filled with big words. These short prayers also help Scouts stay focused and engaged during group time.

When you include these prayers in your meetings or campouts, you are helping Scouts build a habit of reverence. You’re also teaching them to slow down and think about the values that guide their actions. It’s a small step that can lead to big changes in their lives and in the way they treat others.

A Prayer for Scouts by Lord Baden-Powell

The Prayer for Scouts is like a special guide that helps Scouts remember the important qualities they should have, like being trustworthy, loyal, helpful, and kind. It’s a way to ask for help in being the best Scout possible, by being friendly, polite, brave, and respectful to everyone and everything around them.

This prayer isn’t about one specific religion; it’s for all Scouts, no matter what they believe. It reminds Scouts to respect nature, to be clean in thoughts and actions, and to live by the Scout Law every day, making the world a better place.

Scout Law Prayer

This invocation is a spiritual reflection that encapsulates the values of the Scout Law, guiding Scouts towards living a life of integrity, kindness, and respect for nature. It calls upon Scouts to embody virtues such as trustworthiness, loyalty, helpfulness, and bravery, fostering a deep sense of moral responsibility and reverence for the divine.

This reflection serves as a universal reminder of the importance of faith and character in the Scouting journey, making it appropriate for a Scout’s Own service and other ceremonies, and inspiring Scouts to be agents of positive change in their communities.

Peace Prayer

The Peace Prayer asks for help to bring peace, love, and hope into the world. It encourages people to focus on giving rather than receiving, and to spread kindness, forgiveness, and joy. It challenges us to think about others first and to act in ways that make a positive difference.

Though it is often called the Prayer of St. Francis, it was not written by him. It first appeared in a French magazine in 1912. Its universal message of service and compassion makes it meaningful for people of all faiths. This prayer inspires action, understanding, and unity.

Mealtime is a great time for Scouts to stop and say thank you. A short grace before a meal reminds everyone to be grateful. Food is something we all need. When we take a moment to be thankful, it helps us remember how lucky we are. It also helps set a respectful and thankful mood during meals, whether at camp or at a den meeting.

Graces help bring order to a group. When Scouts gather at a meal, saying a short grace gives everyone a clear starting point. It helps quiet the group. It also helps remind everyone to be respectful during meals. Mealtime is not just for eating—it’s a chance to share, to build community, and to show manners.

Letting different Scouts lead grace helps them feel involved. It also lets them hear different styles of prayer. Over time, they learn that grace is not just a rule. It’s a chance to pause, reflect, and give thanks. That is something they can carry with them outside of Scouting too.

Philmont Grace

The Philmont Grace is used by Scouts to give thanks. It expresses gratitude for food, clothing, life, opportunities, and friendships. The prayer is simple, making it easy to say at meals, campouts, or reflective moments. It encourages Scouts to pause and appreciate the blessings in their lives, reinforcing the value of being reverent.

This grace has deep roots in Scouting. It was first written at Worth Ranch Scout Camp in Texas but became widely known through Philmont Scout Ranch. Its message is inclusive, which makes it appropriate for interfaith gatherings. Scouts use it as a way to connect and reflect, no matter their background.

S bar F Scout Ranch Grace

The S bar F Scout Ranch Grace is another example. It mentions the Great Spirit, which comes from Native American tradition. One of our Scouts once changed the words to say “Lord” instead of “Great Spirit.” That was fine too.

It’s okay to adapt the words as long as the meaning stays the same. The important thing is to respect the beliefs of all Scouts. Some Scouts will relate better to one version than another, and that’s okay.

Singing grace can be a fun way to start a meal. Songs are easy to remember, and most Scouts enjoy singing. Grace songs help set a cheerful mood and still remind Scouts to be thankful. They mix fun and reverence in a way that fits well with Scouting. You don’t have to sing well. What matters is joining in and showing gratitude together.

Using grace songs gives Scouts a way to lead and participate in a meaningful but lighthearted way. You can keep a list of grace songs in your den binder or camp notebook. That way, you can mix it up and try different ones. The goal is to help Scouts remember to be thankful, even when they are having fun.

Johnny Appleseed Song

The Johnny Appleseed Song is a grace sung by Scouts before meals. It is named after Johnny Appleseed, an American folk hero who planted apple trees. The song thanks the Lord for the sun, rain, and apple seeds. It is a way for Scouts to show gratitude and appreciate nature.

The song promotes values like community, sharing, and generosity. It is often sung at campouts, meetings, and events. Simple and joyful, the song helps build a sense of unity among Scouts while honoring the legacy of Johnny Appleseed.

Auld Lang Syne Grace

Here’s a grace which is sung to the tune of Auld Lang Syne. This makes a really wonderful Thanksgiving grace. Or it would be a good addition to a Scout’s Own prayer service.

Addams Family Grace

The Addams Family Grace is a simple mealtime prayer set to the tune of the Addams Family TV show. Scouts snap their fingers along with the rhythm while singing words of thanks. It is easy to learn and fun to do as a group. Even Scouts who have never heard it before can join in right away.

This grace focuses on gratitude for food and loved ones. It does not mention any specific religion, so it is a good choice for interfaith gatherings. Scouts from all backgrounds can participate. The snapping and rhythm help bring energy to the moment, making it a great way to start a meal.

Scouts can use this grace at camp, meetings, or other events where they share a meal. It can also be part of a Scout’s Own service. Because the tune is well-known, it helps bring everyone together in a shared moment of thanks.

God Is Great Grace (Rock Around the Clock)

Singing a grace is a nice way to remember that “A Scout Is Reverent” when you are out at camp this summer. At our local Cub Scout camp, packs take turns volunteering to lead grace in the dining hall.  Teaching them prayers as a song will help five or six of them get up and do it

Edelweiss Grace

The Edelweiss Grace is a song used by Scouts as a prayer before meals. Set to the tune of “Edelweiss” from The Sound of Music, it gives thanks for food and friends. It asks for blessings and peace, creating a thoughtful start to any meal. Because it has simple words and a familiar melody, Scouts of all ages can sing it easily.

The grace has become a tradition in Scouting programs, helping Scouts focus on gratitude and togetherness. This grace is especially appreciated at campouts, meetings, and other group gatherings.

Scouting welcomes families from many backgrounds. That means Scouts will have different religious beliefs. It’s important to respect those differences. Reverence does not mean doing things only one way. It means making space for everyone to reflect, pray, and give thanks in ways that are meaningful to them. Leaders should be thoughtful about the prayers and graces they use.

One way to do this is by choosing prayers that talk about values instead of specific beliefs. Gratitude, peace, kindness, and respect are good themes. These ideas are shared across many faiths. By focusing on these themes, prayers can include everyone without making anyone feel left out. This helps all Scouts feel like they belong.

It’s also okay to let Scouts help choose or lead the prayers. Ask them if they have a favorite. Give them the option to pass if they don’t want to lead. Some may want to share a prayer from their own faith. This can be a good opportunity for learning and growing as a group. Letting Scouts take part helps them feel heard and respected.

If a Scout or parent is not comfortable with prayer, offer another way to be reverent. A quiet moment to think or a short reading about nature or kindness can also be meaningful. The key is to help each Scout connect with the idea of reverence in a way that fits their beliefs. It’s not about pushing religion—it’s about teaching respect and reflection.

When we make room for different voices, we build a stronger Scout community. Respect for others is a big part of what makes a Scout. Being reverent means showing that respect in action, not just words. When we pray or say grace in a way that includes everyone, we are living out the values of Scouting.

Native American Prayer

Native American lore is an important part of the Scouts BSA and Cub Scout programs. This Native American prayer is attributed to Chief Sealth (for whom Seattle is named).

The Scout Law

The Scout Law has 12 points, and one of them is that a Scout is reverent. This means Scouts show respect for God and for the beliefs of others. Saying prayers and graces is one way Scouts can live out this part of the Scout Law. These moments help them practice being thankful, kind, and respectful every day.

Prayers and graces remind Scouts to follow the Scout Law in simple ways. When they pause to give thanks before a meal or reflect during a Scout’s Own, they are showing that they care about others and the world around them. These small acts help Scouts grow into thoughtful and respectful people.

Scout Law Video: A Guiding Principle for Life

What is a grace?

A grace is a short prayer said before a meal. It helps Scouts take a moment to say thank you for their food and the people around them.

Do Scouts have to say prayers?

No, Scouts are not required to pray. But they are asked to show respect during prayer times. Scouts can reflect quietly if they prefer.

Can we use songs as graces?

Yes. Singing a grace is a fun way to show thankfulness. Songs like the Johnny Appleseed Song or the Addams Family Grace are popular and easy to learn.

What if a Scout has a different religion?

Scouting welcomes all beliefs. Use prayers that focus on shared values like peace, kindness, and thankfulness. Let Scouts choose whether to join in or just listen respectfully.

When should we say prayers in Scouts?

Prayers can be used at the start or end of a meeting, before meals, or during Scout’s Own services. Use short, simple ones that everyone can understand.

Can Scouts lead prayers or graces?

Yes. Letting Scouts lead helps them feel involved. They can use a written prayer or make up their own. Singing a grace also works well.

Where can I find good prayers for Scouts?

Look for prayers that match Scouting values. You can find examples like the Scout Law Prayer or the Peace Prayer. Keep them short and easy to say.

Do all prayers have to mention God?

Not always. Some prayers focus on being thankful or kind without naming God. These can work well in groups with many beliefs.

What is a Scout’s Own service?

A Scout’s Own is a quiet time for reflection. It can include readings, prayers, songs, or moments of silence. It should respect all beliefs.

How do I help young Scouts join in?

Use short prayers and repeat them often. Singing a grace can help them learn. Give them a chance to lead when they are ready.

Prayers and graces help Scouts learn to be thankful, kind, and respectful. These small moments of reflection can happen at meetings, campouts, or even just before a snack. They teach Scouts that reverence is part of daily life, not just something you do once in a while. Whether it’s a quiet prayer or a fun grace song, it helps everyone slow down and remember what matters.

As leaders, we don’t have to be experts in prayer. We just need to give Scouts a chance to participate and show respect. Letting Scouts lead or choose a grace helps them feel included. Keep things simple and welcoming. It’s okay if some Scouts pray differently or not at all. We can still come together in a spirit of thankfulness and respect.

When we make space for prayers and graces, we are teaching more than just words. We are building a habit of gratitude. We are showing Scouts that reverence means caring about the people and world around them. And we’re giving them tools they can carry for life—tools for calm, for kindness, and for connection. That’s something worth saying grace for.