By Hyung SEOK LEE
CV Weekly intern

The Scouts of America are known for their ability to hike for miles without stopping. On Jan. 29, over 200 Cub Scouts, Boy Scouts, and Girl Scouts of the Verdugo Hills Council proved their ability by hiking four miles throughout La Crescenta and Montrose on what is known as the Ten Commandments Hike.
The hike is more of a walking tour where the Scouts stop at various houses of worship. At each stop, there is a short presentation covering one of the Ten Commandments and some brief comments about that religious institution.
There is an opportunity to view the various architectural styles, interior designs, and religious items from a wide variety of faiths. The hike is based on the Scout Oath of doing duty to God and honoring the Scout Law of reverence.
“It is a very spiritual and enriching hike where all the Scouts learn of each faith,” Eagle Scout Mark Sarkis said.
The Scouts started and ended their trek at The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints. Speakers included bishops, pastors, priests, and reverends of the La Crescenta and Montrose community.
“I think it is great that Scouts are learning the foundation stones of God’s law. My hope is that it draws them to the Lawgiver Himself so they can find salvation in Jesus Christ,” said Pastor Bryan Griem of Montrose Community Church.
The event was organized by ten members of the activities committee of the Verdugo Hills Council. It took seven months to prepare. Pastor David Davis was the event coordinator and took charge of contacting all the churches and planning the date and amount of time at each church.
“This is a great opportunity to introduce people to the churches and the differences between all the denominations,” Davis said.