The Mormon church will stop offering Boy Scouts programs for young adults.
The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints said Thursday it's discontinuing its participation in the Varsity and Venturing programs offered by Boy Scouts of America and Scouts Canada.
Beginning Jan. 1, 2018, 14- to 18-year-olds will participate in alternative activities that "will focus on spiritual, social, physical and intellectual goals outlined by the Church."
The church, which is the largest sponsor of Boy Scouts of America, will still offer scouting for boys ages 8 to 13.
According to a letter sent to church leaders, young men who want to earn the rank of Eagle Scout — or Queen's Scout in Canada — can still do so.
A post on the church's website indicates the decision to stop offering the two scouting programs isn't related to Boy Scouts of America's decision to allow gay leaders and gay and transgender scouts.
Instead, it said the Varsity and Venturing programs "have historically been difficult to implement within the Church." It said the new programs will better meet "local needs."
