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St. Mina Coptic Orthodox Church Scouts

"Be Prepared"

Who We Are

 

Founded in August 2023, St. Mina Scouts is a youth-centered ministry for boys and girls in Grade 6 and up at St. Mina Coptic Orthodox Church in Riverside, CA. We are part of a growing movement of faith-integrated scouting that combines the core values of the Boy Scouts of America (BSA) with the deep spiritual roots of the Coptic Orthodox Church.

Led by certified, experienced Scoutmaster servants, our program is designed to develop youth in faith, character, confidence, and service - equipping each scout to grow into a responsible leader with Christ as their foundation.

 

  • We meet every Sunday at 12:30 PM, following Sunday School, on the church campus.

Our Mission

 

We exist to guide our scouts through a journey of:

  • Spiritual Formation

  • Life Skills Development

  • Coptic Identity and Tradition

  • Outdoor Leadership and Teamwork

  • Service to Church and Community

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What We Do

 

Throughout the year, scouts participate in a full and balanced program that includes:

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  • Weekly Meetings: Filled with team challenges, faith lessons, and skill-building activities.

  • 3–4 Camps Annually: Including overnight outdoor camps, indoor team retreats, and spiritual weekend intensives.

  • Skill Training: Outdoor survival basics, fire safety, knot tying, first aid, and other practical scouting skills.

  • Merit Badge Program: A tailored achievement track encouraging scouts to explore new interests and responsibilities.

  • Faith-Based Ceremonies: Including both Coptic liturgical rites and BSA advancement ceremonies, highlighting the spiritual meaning of growth and dedication.

  • Service Projects: Hands-on community work — both at church and around the city — that teaches sacrificial service and Christian compassion.

  • Prayer Around the Fire: Moments of reflection and group prayer that remind us: all our actions are guided by Christ.

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Milestones We Celebrate

 

Since its founding, the St. Mina Scouts program has already seen remarkable growth:

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  • All current scouts have earned 4–10 merit badges

  • Every scout has achieved Tenderfoot rank or higher, with many reaching Second Class

  • 100% participation in BSA regional events

  • Numerous service hours completed through church outreach and civic programs

Scouts Photo Highlights

Scouts Photo Highlights

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