Figure 1.-- Here we see Timber Wolves Exploring nature on a hike. Notice the flag, this flag is the Flag of the entire FSE movement used in all member countries as the flag of our movement. The meaning of the flag is unique and profound. The colours have a particular meaning:

FSE Explorers a Canadian based movement is part of a larger movement known as the Union Internationale des Guides et Scouts d’Europe (FSE) This movement is one that embraces the traditional teachings and program as developed by Lord Baden-Powell. This growing movement is not in any way associated with Scouts Canada, the Girl Guides of Canada, or any other like organization. The FSE Explorer movement remains true to its ideals and principles by not simply reinventing itself every few years or so to embrace the latest fads. The FSE in Canada is less concerned about ongoing changes in society and its related evolving and ever changing value system. Rather the FSE is more concerned with enduring standards and values. FSE Canada tells us, "We currently call ourselves Baden Powell Explorers; we anticipate dropping the name Baden-Powell to avoid potential confusion with other groups that use the same name." [Ritchi]

European FSE Movement

FSE Explorers a Canadian based movement is part of a larger movement known as the Union Internationale des Guides et Scouts d’Europe (FSE) This movement is one that embraces the traditional teachings and program as developed by Lord Baden-Powell in England. The FSE was first organized in France and German as far back as 1953 , but have since spread throughout Europe. There are FSE units in 15 European countries and Canada (Ontario). As far as we know there are no FSE groups in the United States. The movement is especially important in France where it was first organized. It is the second most important Scout association in France. It is an important movement concerned with youth education. It was certified by the Ministry of Education in 1970 and recertified in 2004. The physical and moral safety of children and youth is one of the FSE's top priorities. Thus the training of the FSE's 5,000 voluntary adult leaders, den mothers, and youth leaders is a priority. The training program enables them to build a valuable and appealing program for the children. The movement has been approved by Catholic Church authorities and is especially important in countries with Catholic populations. The movement is, however, not solely restricted to Catholic children, but to all interested children who are prepared to participate in a traditional Scouting program with a strong spiritual emphasis. The FSE also emphasizes citizen ship preparation. There is also a serious effort to accommodate handicapped children and include them in the program. There is also a major effort to address environmental concerns, especially nature conservancy. As a result in France the FSE program has been approved by the National Office of Forests. The FSE also gives priority to building a pan-European community spirit.

FSE Canada Organization

This growing movement is not in any way associated with Scouts Canada, the Girl Guides of Canada, or any other like organization. FSE Canada tells us, "We currently call ourselves Baden Powell Explorers, we anticipate dropping the name Baden-Powell to avoid potential confusion with other groups that use the same name." [Ritchi]

FSE Canada Philosophy

The FSE Explorer movement remains true to its ideals and principles of Scouting by not simply reinventing itself every few years or so to embrace the latest fads. The FSE in Canada is less concerned about ongoing changes in society and its related evolving and ever changing value system. Rather the FSE is more concerned with enduring standards and values.

Symbolism

Here we see Timber Wolves Exploring nature on a hike. Notice the flag, thisHere we see Timber Wolves Exploring nature on a hike. Notice the flag, this flag is the Flag of the entire FSE movement used in all member countries as the flag of our movement. The meaning of the flag is unique and profound. The colours have a particular meaning: Red of the Cross - the blood of Jesus Yellow on the fleur de lye - the light of Jesus. The white - day and goodness The black - night or evil in the world around us White is on top as goodness will always win over evil; and day and night as the program is an all hour program. The Maltese Cross with its 8 points represents the 8 Beatitudes as taught by Jesus on the mountain side (Matthew 5) The FSE Explorer program embraces the 8 points of the Beatitudes such as - being humble in spirit, serving others - helping those in need, those who are sad or ill - always being open to the word of the Lord - to be just and fair - to be honest, sincere, and trustworthy - to be kind, to show mercy - to seek peace, to work together, not apart - to always stand up for your faith, to lead and not follow those whose path leads away from the Lord

Sources

Ritchi, Paul. Group Leader, FSE Canada, E-mail, January 2, 2006.