Edwardsburg Boy Scout Troop 593 celebrated 50 years with the Presbyterian Church Feb. 7.

Scouts attended the morning worship service with the Presbyterian Church to show their appreciation in being invited to host meetings in the fellowship hall.

“The Presbyterian Church filled the pews with not only church members, but with scout leaders, Boy Scouts and their families,” church member Tanda Stiffler said. “It was a great day to honor and praise the Boy Scouts for their awesome accomplishments. Pastor Scott Scheel told the troop how honored our church was to have them meet in our church over the last 50 years.

“Scout Master Brian Stringfellow, who has been so dedicated to the Boy Scouts, told the audience of what a difference Boy Scouts have made in our community and communities all over the world. After the dedication plaque was awarded to the church the entire congregation stood up for a standing ovation to the Boy Scouts Troop 593 for what they have done in our community over the years.”

The Edwardsburg troop has 27 registered scouts with 15 leaders, including Stringfellow, Committee Chair Roger Miler and Ron Proctor, the Venture Crew advisor.

The new Venture Crew opens the doors for young adults, ages 14 to 21, to be active in the Boy Scouts again.

It was 50 years ago that Scout Master Bob Lindley and Assistant Scout Master Herbert Stiffler approached the church about hosting meetings in the church’s fellowship hall.

Current church members, Craig Lindley and Dave Stiffler were charter members that first year with their father’s being very involved in Boy Scouts. Dave Stiffler has served as the church liaison for several years.

Miller presented Scheel with a plaque to honor the 50 years that the Presbyterian Church and the Boy Scouts have worked together.

After the service, the congregation was invited to the fellowship hall where the troop presented a large display of their flags and memorabilia. They also served cake.

The Presbyterian Church was also hosting its “Souper Bowl” Sunday with several kinds of soups.

Anyone interested in getting involved with the Boy Scouts may contact Stringfellow at (269) 352-9614 or Venture Crew advisor Proctor at (574) 524-5029.