Churches in Northern Ireland have voiced their “deep concern” over the new Girlguiding oath, calling for the old promise within Girl Guides Ulster to be reinstated.
The Methodist, Presbyterian and Church of Ireland have refused to support the new oath, which replaces the promise to “love my God” with a pledge to “be true to myself and develop my beliefs.”
They have raised concerns that the new promise is effectively self-centred, undermining the important role of family, community and faith in positively influencing young people.
Andrew Brannigan, Diocesan Youth Officer for Down and Dromore, has launched a petition calling for the old pledge to be reinstated, with the option of an additional alternative for those who do not want to make a promise to God.
He said: “Unless churches act now, this new Promise and all the threat that it is to our partnership with Guides, will be here to stay.”
You can sign the petition here >
Sources:
Related stories: