We invite all dads with sons ages 6-18 to increase their faith in Jesus Christ and share their Catholic faith through exciting and adventurous outdoor activities. We also need volunteers! Volunteering for a position sets an example for your son to lead as well.
MISSION STATEMENT
"The Troops of Saint George apostolate aims to use the outdoors as our canvas and the sacraments as our path to light the way for the formation of Holy Catholic men and boys. Whether called to the vocation of the priesthood, the religious life, or that of Holy fatherhood, our fathers and sons will take a prayerful pilgrimage together to fulfill Christ's desire for them to grow in virtue and in their Holy Catholic faith as they journey toward heaven."
- Saint George, Pray for us.
What is the Troops of St. George?
The Troops of Saint George, or TSG, was founded in 2013 and is a fraternal Catholic nonprofit apostolate for priests, men, and young men looking for a life of adventure coupled with virtue. We develop character in our sons and in ourselves by using community service, outdoor activities, sports, and other events. National organization can be found at https://TroopsOfSaintGeorge.org.
What ages are involved?
We include boys from ages 6 - 18. We highly recommend a boy reach his 6th birthday before joining as a certain level of endurance, ability and maturity is needed.
When does the troop meet?
We typically meet on the 1st and 3rd Thursdays.
How much does it cost?
Up to and including Sept 1, 2023, our total annual dues are either
Where do my dues go?
What is not included in my membership costs?
Essentially anything else, but typical out of pocket costs are
What community service projects does the troop perform?
We are currently committed to do Adopt-A-Highway three (3) times per year. We are assigned the stretch of FM 2722 just south of Indian Chief Trail Road, which is the entrance to Mission of Divine Mercy in New Braunfels. We typically meet on a Saturday morning. All dads/cadets were orange safety vests and trash bags are provided. We strongly encourage the use of gloves, preferably a more “waterproof” type, like rubber lined or heavy duty leather, versus full cloth in order to handle wet items and the morning dew.
What are some of the activities and camping TSG has done?
In the past we have kayaked and swam in Canyon Lake, biked the mission trail in San Antonio, rented canoes on the Guadalupe River, canoed down the South Llano river, rock climbing
at Enchanted Rock, and participated in the Pro-Life Texas March on the State Capital. We have camped at Enchanted Rock State Park (SP), Lost Maples SP, Colorado Bend SP as well as many other federal parks and private locations.
What do I need to bring to the meetings?
Going by the TSG motto, “Parati Semper” (Always Prepared), we strongly encourage all cadets to carry a rosary and pocket knife.
What should I wear at the meetings?
All Cadets are required to purchase a pair of Class A pants, Class A shirt and a Class B shirt. In addition, fathers are highly encouraged to follow
the same uniform guidelines. This "uniformity" equalizes the cadets and is especially important when we have activities and camping trips in public areas.
While there is a designated TSG hat, at this time, you may wear whatever type of hat you wish.
Other items are available for purchase at your discretion, e.g. Class A shorts, Class B alternate t-shirt, hoodie, field manual, etc. Please visit the TSG store for additional products. Please note each order has shipping costs so you may want to consider making a single purchase to reduce overall costs.
If you have extenuating circumstances that prohibits your family from being able to purchase the cadet uniform, please let me know as I can discreetly (and anonymously) work with the core team to possibly provide financial assistance (depends on funds, etc.)
How are cadets classified?
Cadets are split into 2 main groups: Junior Cadets and Senior Cadets.
Junior cadets are based on grade level:
Senior cadets are for boys ages 11+ who have completed the St. George’s Dragon Slayer’s requirements. Once achieved, senior cadets must work to complete “achievement course” in order to reach the highest level of “tribune”.
What is expected of me, as a dad/parent?
We ask you to help set a good example in word and deed not only around the cadets, but also when no one is looking. Also, there will be opportunities
to help guide the cadets during activities to instruct them as well as ensure everyone’s safety.
How do I become a member and/or pay?
Please follow the instructions found in How To Join.
In conclusion…
We hope that you will consider joining our growing organization to forge character and virtue in your son and yourself as well as create a lasting memory and bond between you and your son.
Interested in becoming a member? Follow these registration steps.
Still deciding? Email the Captain at [email protected].
Finer points:
The Troops of Saint George apostolate provides a context for men and young men to grow in their love for Christ and His Catholic Church while experiencing a life of virtue and adventure.
Troop #815 was started on September 2, 2021 based out of Our Lady of the Atonement Catholic Church (OLOTA). Our troop number 815 is a reference to August 15 which is the Feast of the Assumption. This date is very special for OLOTA. It was the date OLOTA was initially founded, when many of its pastors were ordained or installed, and when its school opened.
This troop was actually born out of Troop 1531 from the Mission of Divine Mercy based in New Braunfels. As membership has grown over time, a wonderful opportunity to expand into San Antonio was available. Fr. Lewis gave his approval to this troop formation in the summer of 2021.
We invite you to join in our journey as we lead our young boys into Catholic manhood.