EOCS

To the esteemed Mr. Vassilis Birtsas, Secretary General of DESMOS International Link of Orthodox Christian Scouts, and all Scouts and volunteers in attendance at the 25th World Scout Jamboree in Gunsan-si, South Korea, our beloved in the Lord: Grace be unto you and peace from God.

On this auspicious occasion of the 25th World Scout Jamboree, with the theme of "Draw your Dream", we extend our heartfelt greetings and blessings to each and every one of you who have gathered from across the world to celebrate the spirit of Scouting. It brings us immense joy to witness the harmonious convergence of diverse cultures, backgrounds, and beliefs, united under the banner of friendship, service, and fellowship.

The Scouting movement, as envisioned by its founder Lord Baden Powell over a century ago, has grown into a powerful force that shapes the lives of countless young men and women, instilling in them the values of integrity, loyalty, kindness, and courage. Throughout its remarkable history, Scouting has nurtured generations of individuals who have emerged as responsible citizens, leaders, and active contributors to society.

The values that the Scouts movement upholds resonate deeply with the principles cherished in Orthodox Christianity. Both emphasize the importance of fostering a strong moral compass, cultivating a sense of responsibility towards our fellow human beings, and promoting peace and understanding among different cultures and faiths. Just as the Scouts' motto "Be Prepared" encourages readiness to face life's challenges, so too does our faith call us to be vigilant in our pursuit of goodness, righteousness, and spiritual growth.

In the spirit of the Scout Law, which advocates trustworthiness, helpfulness, and reverence for nature, we find a profound connection to the teachings of Christ. Our Lord, in His Sermon on the Mount, urged us to be peacemakers, to show mercy, and to love our neighbors as ourselves. These timeless principles echo the very essence of what Scouting seeks to instill in young hearts, guiding them to become responsible stewards of our world and compassionate advocates for the less fortunate.

We are heartened to see how the Scouts movement has evolved to address contemporary challenges, from environmental conservation and sustainability to fostering a spirit of inclusion and understanding. As young scouts from diverse backgrounds come together, you exemplify the ideals of unity amidst diversity, breaking barriers and building bridges of cooperation that resonate deeply with the spirit of Orthodox Christianity.

As you embark on this enriching journey during the 25th World Scouts' Jamboree in South Korea, may you find inspiration and strength in the knowledge that you are part of a global family, bonded by shared values and aspirations. May your experiences during this Jamboree foster lasting friendships, cultivate your sense of purpose, and ignite the flame of service within you.

Amidst this gathering, our brother Metropolitan Ambrosios of Korea will celebrate the Divine Liturgy with you. This encapsulates the faith, ethos, culture and hope of Orthodoxy. We greet His Eminence and congratulate him for his constant engagement with our youth, and interest in their spiritual progress.

In closing, we offer our prayers for a successful and joyful Jamboree and extend our paternal and Patriarchal blessings to each participant, their families, and the dedicated leaders and volunteers who tirelessly support the Scouts movement. May your time in South Korea be filled with joy, learning, and spiritual enrichment, and may it mark the beginning of a lifelong journey towards making the world a better place.

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At the Ecumenical Patriarchate, on the 1st of August 2023

Your fervent supplicant before the Lord,