Latter-Day Saints and the SCA

By His Lordship Ramon de Javier

As a member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, you may ask yourself if the Society for Creative Anachronism(SCA) is a place for you. In recent years, changes to the LDS faith have meant that many members have more time as Church activities have begun to take up less time, giving folks a chance to engage more with their community and explore new hobbies and activities. The SCA represents an excellent organization that encourages personal growth, education, and wholesome fun for the whole family. This is especially true in Artemisia, the SCA regional chapter encompassing Utah, Montana, and Parts of Idaho and Wyoming. That focus on experiencing history by doing and hands-on education appeals to many LDS folks who look fondly at some experiences they may have had on Trek or learning about their family history. I've written a rundown of many ways the SCA is an excellent place for LDS folks to explore history, practice their hobbies, and have fun.

A place of belonging

The SCA is a community that brings together people of all backgrounds who love the past. Sharing skills and learning about others is a fantastic way to make friends and find a place that says I belong. Arts and Science nights have echoes of LDS Relief Society Enrichment or Homemaking nights but engage everyone who wants to learn a new skill or share what they are making. The historical sports of the SCA also build a feeling of camaraderie among participants as they learn about the past through archery, fencing, armored combat, equestrian activities, and working together as teams to complete goals and win scenarios. Like church ball, there's bound to be a brawl. However, everyone is still friends afterward at an SCA event.

Like the sign outside a chapel, the SCA conveys that all are welcome. The SCA welcomes people of all races, cultures, religions, nationalities, genders, sexual orientations, ages, or abilities. Though participants may have varying backgrounds, the respect the SCA encourages bridges the gap, and those who might be pretty different find many things in common.

There is room for everyone, and while some events may have parties, there is always space for privacy. No one is forced to participate in things they are uncomfortable with, or that go against their values.

Bringing Families Together

Many events hosted by the SCA are designed with families in mind. Youth are welcome to participate in many activities, from their combat with padded swords to archery and thrown weapons, as well as arts and science classes. The whole family can join in activities, and it's not uncommon to see parents and children standing on the archery range together or fighting as part of a military unit in a scenario. Because the SCA doesn't require you to be "100% Historically Authentic," families can dress up the best they can and enjoy the day's activities.

Having been around for over 60 years, extended families play in the SCA with grandparents, parents, and children all attending events and enjoying activities together. Very few types of activities are available that cross the generational divide as the SCA does.

Uplifting Values in Action

Recreating the Middle Ages, the values of chivalry, kindness, fairness, and respect are at the heart of what the SCA does. Participants are encouraged to treat each other with courtesy and integrity as if they were nobility of old. It is not uncommon to see participants in activities go the extra mile to show respect or kindness to one another.

Service at the Heart

The SCA is a volunteer organization. Events are run by volunteer members who give their time to make them happen. Need to set up your tent? Do you need a costume or want to make one? Is it your first time at an event? There is a member of the SCA ready to help with a smile.

Not only do folks in the SCA serve each other, but they also go into the community to provide educational activities for schools, scout troops, senior centers, and special needs groups. They teach about the past and share fun and entertainment. In the Shire of Arrow's Flight, we put on an annual toy drive to help kids in need around the holiday, and we regularly collect over 600 Toys distributed in Utah County and beyond. 

Exploring the Past with Purpose

Our hands-on activities bring the past to life, and the fun helps us better understand ourselves and those who came before. From recreating historical clothing to learning ancient blacksmithing techniques or pottery, the SCA explores to better know ourselves. For the Latter-day Saints, this goes hand in hand with the traditions of searching out our ancestors and trying to understand them. The activities deepen our appreciation of the past and help us improve today.

Wrapping it up

The Society for Creative Anachronisms is more than just a group of weekend warriors. It is a community where individuals and families can grow, explore, and connect. For Latter-day Saints, it is a place where you and your family can find the type of wholesome recreation taught by LDS leaders, do meaningful service, and find a community of respect and interest. It can be a place of joy and fulfillment.

So, if you've ever wanted to march with Helaman and his Stripling Warriors, experience what it would be like to put on armor like in Ephesians, or learn something more than quilt making, the SCA has a place for you.



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- Ramon a member of the LDS Faith and his family have played in the SCA since 2003