Listen to this article
The 100th anniversary of Salvation Army scouting in France—known since 1941 as Torchbearers—and the 90th anniversary of Salvation Army scouts in Belgium were both celebrated at a 10-day jamboree in France that included the admitting of Philippe Clément to the Order of the Founder, The Salvation Army’s highest honor.
Around 400 Salvation Army scouts from 15 countries gathered in the grounds of Château de Jambville, north-west of Paris, to live in the heart of nature, discover its benefits, get to know each other better and experience solidarity.
“Most of the participants come from disadvantaged neighborhoods,” said Major David Vandebeulque, Territorial Youth Secretary for France and Belgium. There are also refugee children for whom the camp is an ideal way to integrate into their new society.
Salvation Army centers, particularly in Strasbourg, have been welcoming children from disadvantaged families from Eastern Europe. Scout camps are therefore a way for these young people to get away from the often-difficult family situations and go on a vacation.
The Salvation Guides and Scouts were created in France in 1919 and became the Torchbearers in 1941. In 2011, Sparks was added for six- to seven-year-olds.
At the celebration ceremony, Philippe Clément, National Scout Leader of The Salvation Army in France and Belgium, was admitted to the Order of the Founder by Commissioner Johnny Kleman, International Secretary for Europe.
“This award is a recognition of your commitment to Salvation Army scouts in France and Belgium,” Kleman said. “Thanks to your know-how, you have served young people and contributed to their social and spiritual development.”
The citation, signed by General Brian Peddle, said that for nearly 40 years, “Philippe Clément has skilfully and enthusiastically served young people through the scouting program of The Salvation Army in the France and Belgium Territory. He has participated in the development of children and youth through scouting, impacting their lives as a positive role model, teaching and discipling young people as a faithful servant of the Lord. Through his ability to network with other countries, his influence upon young people has been felt in many other European countries and beyond. Active in inter-church relations, he embodies the motto ‘Burning zeal to serve God and neighbor.’”
Clément is the first French man to be admitted to the Order of the Founder, following in the footsteps of more than 250 other members, including five French women.
