After six months of service as an Ordeal member and after fulfilling certain requirements, a member may take part in the Brotherhood ceremony, which places further emphasis on the ideals of Scouting and the Order. Completion of this ceremony signifies full membership in the Order of the Arrow.  Brotherhood is an opportunity for members to evaluate their past service to Scouting (camping and unit involvement) and to their lodge, and to reaffirm their belief in the high purposes of the Order. There is no charge for the Brotherhood Walk or Ceremony.

Ordeal members are entitled to all the same rights and privileges of membership in the Order as Brotherhood and Vigil Honor members—there are no ranks within the Order. However, moving on to Brotherhood membership offers an opportunity "to reaffirm [one's] belief in the high purposes of the Order." Before becoming a Brotherhood member, each Arrowman makes a special effort to serve their unit. Each Brotherhood member commits to even more service to Scouting through the Order." Arrowmen may "seal" their membership after six months by demonstrating their knowledge of the traditions and obligations of the OA. They then participate in an induction ceremony and become Brotherhood members.

Brotherhood membership is free and easy to obtain. All you need to do is participate in a Brotherhood talk/walk that reviews the OA traditions, purpose and meaning, as laid out in the Ordeal Ceremony. Following the Brotherhood talk/walk, you will attend an inspirational and meaningful Brotherhood ceremony that marks the completion of your induction into the Order of the Arrow.  Opportunities are listed on the lodge calendar. So do not delay, obtain your bars today!

It is important to note that Brotherhood is the only OA level that a Scout may choose for himself. Ordeals are elected by their units; Vigil honorees are selected by their lodge.

When can I become a Brotherhood Member?  At almost every gathering of the lodge we offer the ability for Arrowmen to become Brotherhood members of the Lodge.

How do I learn more about becoming a Brotherhood Member and the Order? Jumpstart is an excellent reference for information on the OA and the Ordeal. You can also use it to help review for Brotherhood. The website even has sample Brotherhood questionnaire questions.

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