MAXIMIZING YOUR CREW POSITION: CHAPLAIN'S AID

When on a Swamp Base trek, within your crew, there are several roles that need to be filled. We call these crew positions. There are six different crew positions (Trek Advisor, Crew Leader, Chaplain’s Aide, Swamp Steward, e-Scribe, and Trek Participant)  and making sure the right person is chosen to fill the role is important. Maximizing the effort and attention you give to your crew responsibilities can in turn, maximize the benefits and rewards you gain from your experience. 

This short blog series will feature the different crew positions and outline how you can make the most of your role in the crew. Let’s talk more about being a Chaplain’s Aid.

The Chaplain’s Aid leads the crew in following the 12th point of the Scout Law, a Scout is Reverent. Leads the crew in nightly “Roses & Thorns.” During Roses & Thorns, each crew member will say their rose (something they liked about the day), thorn (something they disliked about the day), and bud (what they are looking forward to tomorrow or in the near future). Each crew member should be allowed to talk uninterrupted. The Chaplain’s Aide is also responsible for leading the crew in the “Swamp Base Grace” at meals. 

Here are a few Preaux Tips to help you maximize your potential impact as a

Chaplain’s Aid:

1. Know the Swamp Base Grace: You will be in charge of leading the grace before every meal while at Swamp Base. Having the Swamp Base Grace memorized before you arrive is a great way to be sharp and polished. If memorization is something you struggle with, printing out the grace on a laminated card or purchasing a Swamp Base Grace nalgene is a good way to always have the prayer on hand.

Bless the waters that bring life to this land. 

Bless this journey to see the swamp firsthand.

Bless the birds, the fish, and the trees.

Bless this food that strengthens me.

Bless the friendship and fellowship we feel,

As we gather in the swamp for this meal.

Amen.

2. Be a good listener: Each evening, you will lead your trek crew in Roses and Thorns, where each member of the crew will share their favorite, and least favorite part of the day. It is important that you ensure that your crewmates feel heard and get a chance to share their thoughts. 
   

3. Stay open-minded: Everyone has diverse sets of beliefs and experiences reverence uniquely. Staying open-minded is important to making other Scouts feel welcome and included, especially during Roses and Thorns, and during the Interfaith Service.
   

4. Practice your public speaking skills: As Chaplain’s Aid you will need to call the group to attention, facilitate discussions, recite the Swamp Base Grace and Interfaith Service clearly. Practice your communication skills to help you hone in on your public speaking abilities.
   

5. Be Present: The Atchafalaya Swamp is a wondrous place filled with opportunities and memories that can’t be experienced anywhere else. Take time and encourage your crewmates to take time to appreciate the moment you are experiencing. You’ll have time to worry about all the problems later, enjoy your trek in the moment.

   
   

Those who have filled the role of Swamp Base Chaplain’s Aid, what other advice would you give to those considering the role?