Christian Scouting Program Faces Abuse Allegations from Dozens of Boys

Numerous allegations have surfaced regarding sexual abuse within the Christian Scouting Program, particularly the Royal Rangers, a youth organization overseen by the Assemblies of God. Survivors are calling for accountability and stricter safety measures after decades of abuse and inadequate responses from church leaders.

Background of the Royal Rangers

Launched in 1962, the Royal Rangers offer a church-centric alternative to Boy Scouts, combining traditional outdoor activities with Christian teachings. The program aimed to foster discipline, camaraderie, and an evangelical mission among boys in the Assemblies of God community.

Allegations of Abuse

• Numerous boys have come forward, sharing disturbing accounts of sexual abuse by Royal Rangers leaders.
• Abusers have exploited the program’s structure, which allows local churches to operate with minimal oversight.
• Victims report that the church often prioritized its reputation over the welfare of children, failing to take immediate action against suspected abusers.

Case Studies

One notable case involves Travis Reger, who endured abuse at the hands of his troop leaders during the 1980s. Despite complaints from parents, church leaders did not notify authorities but instead allowed the abusers to remain in leadership roles until they were finally prosecuted in the late 1980s.

In another instance, Brandon Champion reported enduring two years of grooming and abuse from his Royal Rangers leader. After initially notifying church authorities, he ultimately had to turn to law enforcement when no action was taken. His abuser received a minimal sentence of three years in prison.

Church’s Response to Allegations

The Assemblies of God has publicly condemned child abuse but maintains that safeguarding measures are optional for local congregations. This hands-off approach has raised concerns among survivors and advocates.

Testing the System

Many representatives of the Assemblies of God argue that local churches should govern themselves. However, this policy has left countless boys vulnerable to predators. Former child abuse prosecutor Victor Vieth warns that the informal oversight of Royal Rangers creates an environment where abuse can thrive.

Legal Actions and Ongoing Challenges

In recent years, at least 17 lawsuits have been filed by survivors against Assemblies of God churches, including allegations of negligence and failure to act on abuse reports. This increasing litigation appears to be a major challenge for the denomination.

• Many survivors cite long-term psychological impacts from their abuse, including addiction and a loss of trust in faith institutions.
• The Assemblies of God continues to fight legal battles, claiming lack of oversight over local Royal Rangers outposts.

Call for Reform

Survivors urge the Assemblies of God to adopt mandatory guidelines for child safety across all Royal Ranger troops to prevent further abuses. Their stories underline the urgent need for comprehensive reforms to protect children and hold accountable those who fail to act against abuse.

Overall, the allegations and subsequent investigations have raised fundamental questions about the responsibilities of religious institutions in safeguarding children from harm.