Troop 5 of Scouting America’s LaSalle Council has been part of the Goshen, Indiana community since 1932. Until February 2026, Troop 5 has also been continuously chartered by the church located at the corner of 5th St. and Jefferson, currently known as Goshen First Church. Goshen First Church has also chartered Troop 70 and Pack 705 since their inception in 2025 and 2024, respectively. Goshen First Church has been a supporter of local Scouting by not only chartering various Troops or Packs, but also providing a meeting space, as well as participating in fundraisers, Scout Sunday, and offering a warm welcome whenever Scouts visited a worship service. Therefore, it is with some sadness that we share that Troop 5, Troop 70, and Pack 705 have needed to find a new charter organization and meeting location. This sadness is tempered with the knowledge that our new charter organization is excited to support the Troops and Pack as well as welcome us into their space.
It is with excitement that we can share that St. James Episcopal Church in Goshen, Indiana, will now be Scouts BSA Troop 5 for Boys, Scouts BSA Troop 70 for Girls, and Cub Scout Pack 705’s new charter organization. As with any significant change, such as changing locations and charter organization after 94 years, there are still logistical items to iron out, lots of gear to go through and move, and many new people to meet. We all look forward to working with the leadership and congregation of St. James Episcopal church to strengthen and grow Scouting in Goshen, Indiana, as we prepare to finish out the first hundred years and start another century of preparing “every eligible youth in America to become a responsible, participating citizen and leader who is guided by the Scout Oath and Law.”
St. James Episcopal Church of Goshen
Founded on Easter Sunday, 1859, St. James Episcopal Church of Goshen has been part of the Goshen community for over 160 years. St. James Episcopal Church is a welcoming and affirming Christian community in Goshen, IN, since 1859. Holy Eucharist/Communion every Sunday at 11 a.m. The church is excited for the Scouts to use its building for meetings and looks forward to finding ways the congregation can interact with and support the Scouts.
Scouting America: A Place to Learn, Explore, and Grow
Scouting America provides a safe and enjoyable environment where young people can learn, explore, and grow. Chartered by Congress, the organization instills the values of the Scout Oath and Law, preparing youth for lives of purpose and impact.
The Scouting America Promise
Scouting addresses the concerns of parents who wonder how their children will navigate life’s challenges, become strong and brave, and develop mental and moral fortitude.
The program aims to instill confidence without arrogance and skills for the world beyond school and sports. It prepares them for emergencies, challenges, and whatever life throws their way. Scouts learn to think for themselves, work with their hands, and cooperate with others.
Scouting provides a safe and welcoming space for young people to engage with the real world, free from social media pressures. It challenges them without overwhelming them, and fosters a sense of belonging.
A Path Forward for All
Scouting welcomes all children and offers a path towards new skills, advancement, and leadership. It empowers them to create something of lasting value through individual effort.
Building Character and Confidence Through Fun and Adventure
Scouting encourages young people to seek out challenges, test their limits, and overcome adversity. Through activities like camping, knot-tying, leadership, and community service, Scouts develop practical skills, build lifelong friendships, and have fun.
The excitement of conquering a new trail, the thrill of the first campfire, and the pride of earning a new badge inspire a lifelong passion. Scouting helps young people grow up with purpose and confidence, embodying the true spirit of Scouts BSA: fun, adventure, and character-building.
If you or someone you know is interested in finding out more about Scouting in Goshen, IN, email troop5in@gmail.com (for 11-17 year old boys), troop70in@gmail.com (for 11-17 year old girls), and pack705in@gmail.com (for kindergarten through 5th grade of any gender).
Troop 5 and Troop 70 Goshen, Indiana 