Pope prays Scouting would go on to promote spiritual, civil formation

Published: 2007-08-01

VATICAN CITY (CNS) -- Greeting an international group of Scouts on the 100th anniversary of Scouting, Pope Benedict XVI prayed that the movement would continue to promote "human, spiritual and civil formation in every country of the world." The pope congratulated the young men and women at the end of his weekly general audience Aug. 1, just a few hours after they joined Scouts from around the world in renewing their promises to serve God and others with generosity. Wading into the crowd to shake hands with and bless his visitors, Pope Benedict received a Scout's scarf, which he tried to slip over his head. An aide took it from him, though, before he was able to readjust the knot. In his main audience talk, Pope Benedict picked up where he left off July 4 before going on vacation, telling pilgrims about the life and teaching of St. Basil, a fourth-century bishop. The bishop, he said, encouraged people to recognize their own dignity as creatures of God and the dignity of others.

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