Christian Groups Urge Boy Scouts to Keep Anti-Gay Ban

Nearly 50 Christian leaders have joined forces to sign a joint leader, urging the Boy Scouts of America to keep its current policy, which prohibits openly gay scouts and leaders from joining or taking part in the organization, the Christian Post reports.

"We strongly support the Boy Scouts of America current prohibition on open homosexuality and retaining it without revision," the statement reads. " Nearly 70 percent of BSA troops are hosted by churches and religious institutions. Upholding traditional morality is vital for sustaining this partnership, for protecting Scout members, and for ensuring BSA has a strong future."

After coming under fire for refusing to change policy, BSA officials finally wavered and earlier this year said they may amend the regulation, allowing each chapter to decide whether or not to allow gay leaders, volunteers or scouts. But the policy's supporters voiced their concern, the BSA decided to postpone their decision.

BSA officials, however, will come to a decision on the issue during its national meeting on Thursday. They will finally rule whether gay scouts, but not leaders or volunteers, should be allowed in the organization.

"In our current culture, it is more important than ever for our churches to protect and provide moral nurture for young people and for the Scouts," the statement continues. "We implore members of the upcoming BSA Council to affirm the BSA's present policy, which the U.S. Supreme Court has affirmed, and which has served BSA well."

Among of those who signed the letter include leaders of the Southern Baptist Convention, United Pentecostal Church International, North American Lutheran Church, Anglican Church in North America, United Methodists, and Assemblies of God.