The Ordeal is the process by which elected individuals become inducted into the Order of the Arrow. The central purpose of the Ordeal is to challenge the candidate to undertake challenges symbolic of the virtues of brotherhood, cheerfulness, and service; and in so doing, make them believe that they can and should apply these virtues to their everyday lives.

Here are the things you need to bring (and ones you don't!) for an Ordeal:

• Copy of your BSA medical form along with any prescription medicine

• Backpack to carry all your gear

• Work clothes, including long pants, long sleeve shirt, and work gloves

• Field uniform, including Scout shorts or pants

• Ground cloth and rain tarp OR bivy bag/sack (for Friday night)

• Sleeping bag

• Boots

• Outerwear for warmth

• Rain gear, including pack cover

• Bathroom and shower gear

• Flashlight

• Water bottle or canteen

• Mosquito repellent and sunscreen

• Extra shoes, socks, underclothing, Scout-appropriate t-shirt, etc.

• Tent (for Saturday night only)

Be prepared to carry all gear around camp all weekend long and to sleep "under the stars." Any outside food and/or extra camping gear (other than that mentioned above) is prohibited. Those with medical, physical, or nutritional needs must make those known so proper arrangements can be made.

Some things you should NOT bring include:

• Portable electronic equipment (like iPads, video games, etc.)

• Sheath knives

• Matches

*Specifics may change by event*

FRIDAY:

7:00 PM - Check-In Opens

9:00 PM - Cracker Barrell

10:00 PM - Ordeal Begins

SATURDAY:

7:00 AM - Wake Up/Breakfast

8:00 AM - Service Projects Begin

11:30 AM - Lunch

Noon - Return to Service

2:00 PM - Ordeal Ceremony

3:00 PM - Program Begins

5:30 PM - Dinner

7:00 PM - Evening Program Begins

11:00 PM  - Lights Out

SUNDAY: 

8:00 AM - Continental Breakfast, Check Out Opens

Any questions you may have can be sent to our Membership team by email at membership@erielhonan.org or the Lodge Adviser at lodgeadviser@erielhonan.org.