World Scout Jamboree
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ESSEX, England — Coined as a derivative of the Swahili greeting "Jambo," the word "Jamboree" is synonymous with large gatherings of Scouts. Ever since the first Jamboree was organized almost 90 years ago by Scouting founder Lord Robert Baden-Powell, boys have pulled on their Scout uniforms and "Jamboreed" at local, national and world levels. And almost since that beginning, such gatherings have usually enjoyed an enthusiastic LDS presence.
The Church is again prominently represented at the 2007 World Scout Jamboree being held in the heart of England — the birthplace of the Scouting movement.
Between 400 to 500 LDS Scouts and leaders from different spots on the globe are counted among the 40,000 Scouters gathered for the international event. Many are from the United States, while others traveled from nations as far away as Tahiti. The 10-day 2007 World Jamboree began July 28 and is expected to offer young Church members an opportunity to befriend, recreate and serve beside fellow Scouts from some 150 countries and many religious backgrounds.
The Jamboree's opening ceremonies included a procession of knights on horseback. They were followed by flag bearers of each participant nation. England's Prince William and the Duke of Kent attended the ceremonies. The Duke read a message of welcome from Queen Elizabeth II.
Many of those attending the World Scout Jamboree will likely learn of the Church for the first time. An LDS display tent is located within the Jamboree's Faith and Beliefs area — a circle of large tents with many of the world's religions represented. Visitors to the Church's tent can wander past several dioramas. One displays a large painting of Christ. The familiar "The Christus" statue is found in another. Also exhibited are photographs of the First Presidency and the Young Men general presidency. The Church's Duty to God Award and Scouting's Eagle Award are also highlighted in the display.
The LDS display is interactive. Visitors of all ages can sit at one of the dozen computer stations and discover their own ancestors via familysearch.org. Full-time missionaries are also on hand to answer questions about the Church and its youth programs. Literature such as the Strength of Youth pamphlet, the Joseph Smith story, Article of Faith cards and copies of the Book of Mormon are also available.
Patch collecting is a favorite hobby among Scouters attending the Jamboree. They leave the Church's display tent happy with an LDS-themed patch — and a frozen treat to help them keep cool.
For LDS Scouters, the Jamboree offers opportunities for spiritual instruction and growth. Young Men General President Charles Dahlquist II is presiding over the Church contingent. He is joined by his counselor, Brother Michael A. Neider, and a team of LDS chaplains. The first sacrament meeting was held July 29 in the Jamboree's Global Development Village. A second Sabbath gathering is planned for Aug. 5.
