The History of the National Catholic Scout Fellowship

The story so far…

In 1925 a group of interested adults arranged a pilgrimage for Catholic Scout Groups to Rome.

The same group decided that a body concerned with the religious and spiritual development of Catholic Scouts was very important. So with the approval of the Hierarchy they formed the CSAC, who appointed a Bishop as its Religious Advisor.

Based on Dioceses, Guilds were formed in order to offer support at local level. Diocesan Chaplains were appointed to guide the Guilds.

Over the intervening years the CSAC has organised and run many activities. These have supported leaders and benefited the Association’s young members.

However, as time has gone by the number of Catholic sponsored groups have diminished. Now many of our young people and leaders, who are Catholic, belong to groups sponsored by other denominations. Also many Catholic leaders work at District and County levels. Active participation in the CSAC has reduced and very few of the Guilds remain.

This year. In line with Scouting Policy, we have become a Fellowship with a new constitution, although our mission statement remains the same.

Membership is open to all Catholics adults involved in Scouting whether in Sponsored Groups or non-Sponsored Groups. You can choose to join as an Individual Member: Sponsored Groups may opt for Group Membership. Membership is renewable annually on the 1st January. Members, either Individual or Groups will receive copies of our publication ‘The Link’ and a single vote at the Annual General Meeting.

Please read our Mission Statement and consider applying for membership