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Training Boys for the Master Ranger
by Philip Bongiorno,
Pennsylvania-Delaware district superintendent
There is no finer program
for the training of our boys than the Royal Rangers! It is far better
than any boys' program I know because of its spiritual impact on
their lives. This is because of the godly male role models that
the men who work with the boys give.
In today's world, positive male role models are
absolutely essential. Many boys live in single-parent homes where
the only healthy father image they have is the local church's Royal
Rangers leaders.
Royal Rangers commanders can act as mentors who
provide our boys opportunities to grow spiritually, socially, and
mentally, which will allow them to be leaders now and as they grow
older.
The Royal Rangers ministry has been advantageous
in our fellowship because it provides an entry point for our boys
and their fathers into God's kingdom and the service of the church.
The teaching they receive in the church instills godly values that
will last for a lifetime.
It also develops a discipline that has far-reaching
benefits such as:
- a good work ethic
- emotional stability
- wise stewardship
- faithfulness to church
- willingness to serve
- respect for others
- loyalty to the church
- good citizenship
- respect for the law
- and respect for authority.
Royal Rangers provides a place where our boys
can develop lifelong friendships. I have seen this happen in our
churches and in my own family. Boys who have grown up in the Royal Rangers ministry have maintained healthy friendships through the
years.
Our District Royal Rangers Commander Joe Finan
says, "The Penn-Del Royal Rangers ministry has a bonded fellowship
of leaders and boys that strives for excellence and greatness for
the Master Ranger. The most difficult part of Royal Rangers is waiting
in anticipation for the next camping experience. Our leaders and
boys have a great time when they get together for a time of worship,
learning, fun, and fellowship." The successes of the Penn-Del
Royal Rangers throughout the years have made it possible for them
to purchase a 136-acre farm in central Pennsylvania. It is the place
our Rangers call home.
There is nothing dull about the Royal Rangers ministry . Royal Rangers love to be involved in archery, boating,
backpacking, swimming, and other high-energy activities. All are
part of the high adventure that boys love. These activities also
develop the boys' appreciation for our planet and the majesty of
God's creation.
Most of all, I love and appreciate the Royal Rangers ministry because it teaches them about God's salvation provided through
His Son, Jesus Christ. It is one of my highest joys to attend Royal Rangers ministries and read the reports of local, sectional, and district
leaders telling of the hundreds of boys who have accepted the Lord
Jesus Christ as their Savior. Many of these boys saved early in
life go on to a lifetime of serving God and the church. Many of
them become Royal Rangers leaders, board members, Sunday school
teachers, youth leaders, and preachers of the gospel. Thank God
for the Royal Rangers!
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