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Inductions Portal

Inductions Handbook


About the Inductions Handbook

The Inductions Handbook is the official publication of the Order of the Arrow detailing the complete inductions process that begins with the election of a Scout by the members of their unit and ends with the Arrowman’s Brotherhood ceremony. This publication provides the basis for building and improving the inductions experience in your lodge.

Lodge and chapter officers, committees, and advisers are highly encouraged to download and use this resource as they work to lead their lodge to sustainability, growth, and program excellence.


Download the Inductions Handbook

The Inductions Handbook has two versions

NOTE: These documents are password protected using Ordeal and Brotherhood Honor safeguards. For password information, please see Safeguarded Material.


Handbook Contents: Chapters and Supporting Resources

Preface: Introduction

Chapter 1: Organizing the Induction Process

Chapter 2: Managing Unit Elections

  • Downloadable Unit Election Videos
  • Sample Letter Announcing Elections
  • Unit Elections Rules and Procedures
  • Unit Elections Frequently Asked Questions
  • Unit Elections Team Training
  • Unit Elections Team Checklist
  • Unit Elections Script
  • Unit Election Report
  • Unit Elections Evaluation Form
  • Adult Candidate Nomination Form
  • Sample Letter to Parents of Candidates

Chapter 3: Call-Out Ceremonies

  • Suggested Call-Out Ceremony
  • Spirit of the Arrow Booklets

Chapter 4: Training Ceremony Teams

  • Ceremony Team Evaluation and Training
  • Ceremonies Evaluator Training
  • Ceremonies Evaluation Rubric

Chapter 5: Staging Induction Ceremonies

Chapter 6: Ordeal Administration

  • Induction Standards
  • Ordeal Checklist
  • Model Induction Template
  • Sample Ordeal Schedule
  • Sample Parent Information Sheet
  • Sample Letter to Elangomats
  • Training Elangomats
  • Elangomat Work Sheet
  • An Elangomat's Guidance During the Ordeal
  • New Member Ordeal Experience Survey

Chapter 7: The Ordeal Weekend

  • Guidelines for Assisting Scouts with Special Needs

Chapter 8: After the Ordeal

  • Aim High Orientation

Chapter 9: The Journey to Brotherhood  (Brotherhood Edition Only)

  • Sample Letter Encouraging Unit Service
  • Sample Letter Announcing Brotherhood Eligibility
  • The Brotherhood Hike (Brotherhood Edition Only)

Contact Us

For questions, comments, and requests for information, email the Inductions and Ceremonial Events Committee at inductions@oa-bsa.org.