Order of the Arrow Ordeal

What Is an Order of the Arrow Ordeal?

The Ordeal is the induction experience into the Order of the Arrow, Scouting’s National Honor Society. Candidates who attend an Ordeal have been elected by the members of their home unit because they exemplify the Scout Oath and Law in their daily lives.

During the Ordeal weekend, candidates will participate in meaningful service, personal reflection, and ceremonial experiences designed to challenge them and welcome them into the Brotherhood of Cheerful Service. While portions of the experience are intentionally reflective and quiet in nature, candidates are supported throughout the weekend by trained youth and adult leadership.

Parents, guardians, and unit leaders can be assured that all activities are conducted in accordance with BSA and OA policies, with a strong emphasis on safety, respect, and personal growth.

Weekend Schedule Overview

The Ordeal is a full weekend commitment. Below is a general overview of the weekend to help families and units plan accordingly:

Friday Evening

Candidate check-in begins at 7:00 PM

A brief information session and pre-Ordeal activities will follow

Candidates will settle in for the evening later that night

Saturday

Early morning start

Candidates participate in service projects throughout the day

Breaks for meals, rest, and personal time are built into the schedule

The Ordeal induction ceremony takes place Saturday evening

Fellowship activities follow the ceremony

Sunday Morning

Breakfast and a Scouts’ Own Service

Brief meetings and camp clean-up

Departure by late morning

A detailed schedule with specific locations and times will be provided to participants at check-in.

What to Bring (Packing List)

To ensure a safe and successful Ordeal weekend, candidates should arrive prepared. Please plan to bring:

Official Scout field uniform (Class A)

Work clothes that can get dirty (long pants recommended)

Sturdy closed-toe shoes (work boots or hiking shoes preferred)

Sleeping bag and ground pad

Personal toiletries

Reusable water bottle

Weather-appropriate clothing (rain gear recommended)

Flashlight or headlamp

Completed BSA Annual Health and Medical Record

All meals during the weekend are provided. Candidates do not need to bring food or money unless otherwise instructed.

For Parents & Unit Leaders

The Order of the Arrow Ordeal is a time-honored Scouting experience focused on service, reflection, and personal growth. Throughout the weekend, candidates are guided and supported by trained youth leaders, adult advisers, and council staff who are committed to providing a safe, respectful, and meaningful environment.

The Ordeal is designed to reinforce the values Scouts already live by — cheerful service, leadership, and commitment to others — while welcoming new members into the Order. Activities are age-appropriate, thoughtfully planned, and conducted in accordance with all BSA and Order of the Arrow policies.

Parents, guardians, and unit leaders are welcome to attend and observe the Ordeal ceremony on Saturday evening. This is an opportunity to support your Scouts and see the culmination of the weekend’s experience firsthand.

We encourage parents and unit leaders to view the Ordeal as a significant milestone in a Scout’s journey. It is often remembered as a powerful and positive experience that helps Scouts reflect on their role in their unit, their community, and Scouting as a whole.

If you have questions before the event or would like additional information, lodge leadership will be happy to assist.