Kunamokst Lodge recently marked a major milestone, hosting the new Order of the Arrow induction experience for the very first time this past weekend at Camp Mooney! Whether you are a long-time member of the OA, a Scout considering membership, or a unit leader or parent wondering what the new induction process is all about, this inaugural event demonstrated the strength, dedication, and bright future of our local lodge.
Together, participants and staff provided over 300 hours of impactful service to Camp Mooney, leaving a lasting mark on the grounds that support our council’s largest annual event.
Embracing New Traditions with Open Minds
At this historic event, 34 members took part in the updated Order of the Arrow induction. Change can often bring uncertainty, and some participants naturally felt hesitant at the start. However, approaching the weekend with open minds and positive attitudes, they quickly discovered the deep purpose behind these updated traditions. The new experience honors the core principles of Brotherhood, Cheerfulness, and Service while modernizing how candidates learn and internalize these lifelong values.
Preparation and Leadership
An event of this scale does not happen overnight. Our leadership team underwent extensive preparation to ensure the highest quality experience for every participant:
National & Inter-Lodge Training: In June, Kunamokst Lodge sent 12 members to Spokane, WA, to a National Induction Experience. With support from our neighboring Wauna La-Mon’tay Lodge, four additional members attended their Lodge Induction Experience.
Dedicated Crew Luminaries: Five luminaries stepped up to guide crews through the weekend. Prior to the event, each luminary completed an additional six hours of specialized training to ensure every candidate was supported, encouraged, and engaged.
Mastering New Ceremonies: Our ceremonialists spent countless hours preparing two brand-new ceremonies. Notably, two of the ceremonialists were performing for the very first time! Their powerful delivery made the experience deeply meaningful and educational for all our members.
What This Means for Scouts, Leaders, and Parents
For Scouts, the updated Order of the Arrow induction offers an engaging, reflective, and rewarding pathway into Scouting’s National Honor Society. It focuses on personal growth, servant leadership, and forming bonds of brotherhood that last a lifetime.
For Unit Leaders and Parents, you can feel confident that the new induction program is built on strong values, safety, and constructive mentorship. It provides youth with actionable leadership skills and a renewed passion for giving back to their home units and local camps.
Looking Ahead
All of this serves as a powerful testament to where Kunamokst Lodge and the Order of the Arrow is headed: our Order is set to thrive. Armed with new traditions, dedicated youth leadership, and an unwavering commitment to service, we are thrilled to welcome our newest members next spring and show them what the Order of the Arrow truly represents.
Thank you to everyone who devoted their time, energy, and heart to making this Induction Experience an incredible success!
Have questions about the new induction? Reach out to our induction team at new-induction@kunamokst.org.
