Welcome to the Beit Jala Orthodox Scouts: Preserving Tradition, Building Community
Our Rich Heritage
The history of the Beit Jala Orthodox Scouts is a testament to our enduring commitment to faith, tradition, and community. It all began in 1956 when the Orthodox Religion Committee gathered around 20 spirited youths with a shared vision – establishing a scout troop to serve the church and maintain order during significant religious events. With limited members and a handful of musical instruments, the journey began.
By 1962, our scout troops had evolved significantly, extending their influence throughout the Bethlehem Region. This progress culminated in the establishment of a Union of Orthodox Scout Troops, complete with formal regulations, internal guidelines, and comprehensive training for our members.
However, the 1967 war posed challenges, temporarily halting our activities. Yet, in 1970, the Arab Orthodox Scout Troops in Beit Jala opened their doors to youth, both boys and girls, in the city. By 1984, our ranks had swelled to approximately 250 dedicated individuals.
Our Contribution to the Community
The scout movement in Palestine, including the Beit Jala Scout Troops, has always been highly active. We’ve continuously developed activities to align with our goals and principles, strongly focusing on religious events. Scout camps filled with engaging activities, voluntary work, and participation in external events and training courses have been the hallmarks of our commitment.
We take immense pride in our role as leaders in scout leader training. Through local and national training camps, we’ve honed countless individuals’ skills and leadership qualities. Our musical choir has graced several national occasions and events, reflecting our dedication to our region’s cultural and musical heritage.
The Heartbeat of Our Community
One of our most remarkable achievements has been the establishment of the Beit-Jala Orthodox Scout Troop Bagpipes Band, generously funded by expatriates from Chile. This band, proudly named after its supporters, has become vital to our musical landscape. It has represented us in numerous national musical events across Palestine and played a pivotal role in developing our youth’s social skills and behavior.
Volunteering for a Stronger Beit Jala
At the core of our mission is the belief that scouting should be more than just a pastime; it should be a way of life. We encourage our youth to embrace their roles as active, engaged community members. Through volunteering for various social activities, our scouts learn the true meaning of giving back and contributing to the well-being of their city and country.
We call on our local community and the Beit Jala residents in the diaspora to discover our rich history, vibrant social and religious activities, and our scouts’ indispensable role in building a stronger Beit Jala. Join us in this journey of tradition, faith, and community building. Together, we shape a brighter future for our beloved city and our cherished Palestine.
