The Boy Scouts of America maintains that no Scout can grow into the best kind of citizen without recognizing an obligation to God.  In the first part of the Scout Oath (Promise) the Scout declares, "On my honor I will do my best to do my duty to God and my country and to obey the Scout Law."

The recognition of God as the ruling and leading power in the universe, and the grateful acknowledgment of His favors and blessings, are necessary to the best type of citizenship and are wholesome precepts in the education of the growing Scouts.  No matter what the religious faith of the members may be, this fundamental need of good citizenship should be kept before them.

The Boy Scouts of America, therefore, recognizes the religious element in the training of the Scout, but it is absolutely nonsectarian in its attitude toward that religious training.  BSA policy is that the home and the organization or group with which the member is connected shall give definite attention to religious life.

Only persons willing to subscribe to this Declaration of Religious Principle, and to the Bylaws of the Boy Scouts of America, shall be entitled to certificates of membership.