An Evaluation of Popular American Youth Organizations from a Confessional Lutheran Perspective

Abstract

Martin O. Westerhaus’s essay, An Evaluation of Popular American Youth Organizations from a Confessional Lutheran Perspective (1979/1981), examines five major youth organizations—Boy Scouts, Girl Scouts, Camp Fire Girls, Boys’ Clubs of America, and 4-H Clubs—against theological and practical criteria. Westerhaus begins by identifying social factors behind the rise of these groups in the early 20th century, including industrialization, compulsory education, and urbanization, which created a need for structured after-school activities, outdoor experiences, and character development. He outlines evaluation guidelines emphasizing fairness, current information, and doctrinal concerns such as views on Scripture, God, salvation, prayer, fellowship, and confession of faith. The analysis finds significant religious and philosophical conflicts in Scout-type organizations: their nonsectarian stance, implied approval of all religions, and emphasis on civic righteousness undermine biblical teaching on sin and grace. Camp Fire Girls exhibit similar issues, though less overtly. Boys’ Clubs and 4-H Clubs, largely secular and practical in focus, pose fewer objections and may be acceptable for Lutheran youth. Westerhaus concludes by recommending WELS alternatives such as Lutheran Pioneers, Lutheran Girl Pioneers, and locally tailored programs like “Christian Knights,” stressing creativity, flexibility, and strong doctrinal grounding. He warns that while youth organizations meet real social needs, Lutheran congregations must ensure that participation does not compromise confession of Christ or fellowship principles. Abstract prepared by Microsoft Copilot (GPT‑4).