New
Induction
Information
Welcome
New
Induction
Information
The OA is meant to be lived, not just earned. For over a century, the Order has created transformative experiences for Scouts across the nation. As we continue our mission to be the reason Scouts want to stay in Scouting, we are evolving.
The Order of the Arrow has redesigned the induction experience to create a welcoming environment where members forge real connections, discover what Brotherhood, Cheerfulness, and Service truly mean, and leave energized for the future.
What is the New Induction Experience?
The Order of the Arrow’s induction is evolving to ensure today’s youth forge real connections, understand our values immediately, and begin a journey of active service and belonging.
What is Staying the Same
Our core tenets remain unchanged. The new experience continues to honor:
Brotherhood, Cheerfulness, and Service: These fundamental values remain the heart of everything we do.
A Meaningful Milestone: The induction remains a significant, transformative moment in a Scout’s journey.
Service: Service remains a core vehicle for experiencing the intent of our organization.
The Weekend Structure: The experience begins on Friday evening and continues through the weekend.
The Admonition: Our purpose continues to be anchored by the Admonition.
What is Evolving
We are adapting how we teach our timeless values to better resonate with today’s youth:
Guided Reflection: We are moving away from extended isolation in favor of meaningful, guided discussions that foster connections among candidates.
Enhanced Ceremonies: Ceremonies have been refreshed to be more accessible, with a “on-book” ceremonialist role that reduces the memorization burden while maintaining dignity and meaning.
The Luminary Role: The small group leader (formerly known as the Elangomat) now serves in an enhanced facilitation role, helping members reflect on their journey and discover their place in our brotherhood.
Clearer Values in Action: New activities are designed to create a shared understanding of our values, ensuring every new member leaves with clarity and excitement.
Ho-Nan-Ne-Ho-Ont Lodge is hosting an exclusive event to introduce our members to this new era. This event is the first opportunity for our current members to see and experience the new induction firsthand.
Why You Should Attend
You will re-experience your induction in an entirely new way. This is not about reliving the Ordeal of the past; it is about engaging in a new, transformative process.
For Future Staff: Anyone planning to staff a Lodge Induction Event in 2027 or beyond is strongly encouraged to attend to gain the necessary firsthand understanding of the process.
For Current Members: Experience this historic transition and help usher in a new era for our Lodge.
For Lapsed Members: A perfect opportunity to re-engage with the Order and reconnect with your fellow Arrowmen.
For Neighboring Lodges: Members from other lodges are welcome to join us to support this transition!
Note: While experiencing this new induction is a requirement for anyone serving in key induction-related roles, it is not a requirement to maintain your current membership.
Event Details
Location: TBA
Dates: TBA
Cost: TBA – Includes food and induction materials
Registration is required to attend, and payment is due at the time of registration so we can order necessary materials.
What to Expect During the Experience
During the Lodge Induction Experience you will go through the new induction as if you were a candidate. On Friday night, you will be put into crews of 6-12 people. Each crew will be guided by a “luminary” – an Arrowmen who will guide you through the induction through various activities and thoughtful discussions.
After getting to know your crew, you will attend a ceremony and spend the night without shelter.
On Saturday, you will eat full meals, provide service, and participate in activities with your crew. The day will culminate in the final ceremony followed by an evening of fellowship.
The weekend will conclude on Sunday morning after breakfast.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is the Induction changing?
Only 1 in 8 OA members attend a second event following their induction. The intent of this change is to strengthen our lodges and Scouting by keeping Scouts engaged long after the weekend ends by helping them discover brotherhood from their very first OA experience.
Was this a sudden change?
No. This has been under consideration for nearly a decade, based on years of feedback regarding new member activation and retention. It was developed through extensive pilot programs across the country and officially approved in January 2026.
Where can I learn more on these changes?
For more information, visit the national Order of the Arrow New Induction Experience here.
Do I have to go through the new induction to stay a member?
No, experiencing the new induction is not required to maintain membership in the Order of the Arrow or our Lodge.
However, Arrowmen who plan to serve as a ceremonialist, luminary, induction coordinator, or other key induction staff member must experience the new induction before they can help put one on.
We encourage any Arrowmen who is able to experience the new induction when they have the chance.
I can't make this event, will there be more opportunities to experience the new induction?
Yes. Additional opportunities will be available for current members to experience the new induction in 2027.
Where can I learn more about Inductions?
For more information, visit the national Order of the Arrow Inductions Portal.
Have Questions?
Have questions about the Ho-Nan-Ne-Ho-Ont Lodge Induction Experience?
Please contact us at ________________________________