Prayers and Graces for Scouts
A Scout is reverent toward God. He is faithful in his religious duties. She respects the beliefs of others. Find prayers and graces for use in your program below.
Want to share a favorite prayer or grace? Send it to me and I will share it.
Prayers
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.
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).
Graces
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
This is the S bar F Ranch grace. I will mention that at one point we had an SPL who took issue with the words Great Spirit and replaced them with Lord. But our other Scouts had no problem with it, saying that Great Spirit was another name for the Creator.
Grace Songs
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.
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