Scouting a tool for priesthood growth

CIMARRON, N.M. — The Priesthood Leadership Conference on Scouting at Philmont Scout Ranch is undeniably a Scouting event.

Stake leaders of all backgrounds wore the ubiquitous tan uniform to their courses. Instructors brought classes to order by raising the three-fingered Scout sign. And crowds again hovered around beloved LDS Scout leader Bill Burch and his fellow whittler Gary Dollar as they sat on the Philmont lawns carving comical bolo ties that are familiar to Scouts worldwide.

But beyond the Scout uniforms, silly skits and tent cities, the annual conference is first about the priesthood.