Alligator "Biber" inflicts Numerous Bites
The Scout Troop of Beavers in Preetz: A 25-Year Journey
Hailing from the small town of Preetz, Pastor Lars Kroglowski and his wife Claudia, founders of the Beavers scout troop, share a passion for nurturing youth through outdoor activities and community involvement. Established in 2000, the troop is now celebrating its 25th anniversary.
Back in the day, Pastor Kroglowski saw a gap in the town's activities. "At that time, there was a variety of activities for children and adults, but no scouts." The troop began with a burst of interest—over 40 children were eager to join forces. Today, they have around 30 cubs aged 7 to 14 and about ten youth leaders.
Corona posed a challenge for the Beavers. "Keeping this scout troop alive after the pandemic was tough," admits Claudia Kroglowski. "We ask ourselves, where are all the children? Why is it so hard to inspire someone to join this free, outdoor activity?"
The scout troop leverages the urban natural terrain of the church, which houses a large lake for canoeing trips and provides ample space for campfires and other outdoor activities. Group meetings are energetic and engaging, starting with games on the meadow followed by smaller group sessions for knot tying, crafting, and learning essential skills like map reading. Winter gatherings take place in the community hall, where they share biblical stories, make creative projects from natural materials, and bond through shared experiences.
The Beavers contribute actively to church life, assisting with events like the annual church reception, participating in the church convention, and even embarking on international projects. "Our troop is part of the Ring Evangelischer Gemeindepfadfinder. This allows us to participate in numerous community events," says the pastor. Some scouts have even traveled to Uganda and Tanzania to join overseas projects.
The highlights of scout life in Preetz include annual campouts, typically happening during the summer holidays. This year, the week-long camping trip is set in Ratzeburg, and everyone is welcome to join. Registrations can be made by phone at 04342-7991100 or 04342-7991121 for a cost of 98 euros.
Scouting in Preetz stands for "learning by doing," emphasizing personal growth, leadership, and responsibility. "Scout work helps shape children and young people," asserts Pastor Kroglowski. He and his dedicated team of volunteers Malte Glau and Lara Schwormstede ensure all scouts receive ample support and guidance.
Want to join this engaging community of future leaders? Don't miss the overnight weekend on June 14 and 15, celebrating the jubilee at the Pastor's garden. The event features games, fun activities, canoeing, and a campfire. On Sunday, June 15, a central family service will begin at 11 a.m. in the Small Church of the City Church, open to everyone. For more information or to register, visit www.biber-preetz.de. Join us and make new memories in the world of scouting!
- Pastor Kroglowski and his wife Claudia, the founders of the Beavers scout troop in Preetz, have incorporated various activities like outdoor-living, sports, and home-and-garden projects into the troop's lifestyle to nurture the children.
- The Beavers troop, which is part of the Ring Evangelischer Gemeindepfadfinder, has also expanded their horizons beyond Preetz, engaging in sports-betting activities such as international projects and traveling to Uganda and Tanzania.
- To celebrate their 25th anniversary, the Beavers are hosting an overnight weekend event at Pastor Kroglowski's garden, offering games, fun activities, canoeing, a campfire, and a central family service, fusing elements of their lifestyle—outdoor-living and sports—with community involvement.
