High Phi Operations Guide a Lambda Chi Alpha resource
As the High Phi of ________________ Zeta, I, _____________________, hereby promise to uphold the ideals of Lambda Chi Alpha and dilligently perform the duties and responsibilities associated with this position.
Navigation
Operations Guide
Ritualist: High Phi The Official Charge of the High Phi
Brother High Phi, your task is one of great importance, for you are responsible with overseeing that the Fraternity’s Initiation Ritual is performed in the manner ensuring that our secrets are safe guarded. You are the spiritual leader of your chapter. It is your role to advise the chapter on all matters pertaining to our ceremonies and ensuring they are performed in the proper manner. You are to inspire the brotherhood to delve into the teachings of our Fraternity and instruct on how to apply those teachings to their daily lives. Taking the Ritual from something that is performed, to something that is lived.
In Order to Lead, You Must First MODEL IT To MODEL IT means to implement the required functions of your office in order to lead the chapter effectively. These seven directives are the basic expectations for each brother during his term in office
M otivate: O rganize: D elegate:
E valuate:
L ead:
I nspire:
T each:
Chapter members to participate in all rituals. All ritualistic activities. Opportunities to brothers to assist in organizing and performing the Initiation Ritual, other ceremonies and ZAX sessions. The role that the teachings and values of our Fraternity play in member’s lives. The brothers by demonstrating through your actions the proper decorum and respect in the observance of all Lambda Chi Alpha rituals and by living the Seven Core Values. Brothers to understand and integrate the teachings of the rituals in their daily lives. Chapter members to live the Fraternity’s teachings and Seven Core Values as a True Brother.
Navigation
Operations Guide
A Message from the International Headquarters Congratulations brother on your appointment as your chapter’s High Phi. This position will require you to work diligently to ensure that your chapter lives up to its highest standards. The document you are currently accessing is your officer Operation’s Guide. This interactive document will be your go-to resource in successfully implementing the standards that this officer position entails. The first part of the Operations Guide is the specific operations you should be completing. These operations are separated by Basic, Advanced, and Exceptional. With each of these operations, you can click on the “Jump to Section” to view a page that will give you a description on how to complete that operation. The operations list also has a checkbox you can use when you have completed the operation. When your Educational Leadership Consultant visits with you, he will evaluate you on whether or not you have completed these operations. There is also a navigation tab at the bottom of the screen that can take you to the previous or next page or the first or last page. You can click on the Basic, Advanced, or Exceptional tabs on the right side of each page to jump back to the operations list at the beginning of the document. At the end of this document, there is a textbox where you can keep notes and blank list where you can create your goals and task. Should you have any additional questions about the operations of your officer position that are not covered in this Operations Guide please feel free to e-mail the Chapter Service’s staff at
[email protected]. From all of us at Lambda Chi Alpha International Headquarters, we wish you the best going forward as you continue to promote the values and lessons of our Fraternity. In ZAX,
Nicholas Zuniga Director of Chapter Services Lambda Chi Alpha Fraternity
Navigation
Operations Guide
Basic Operations Jump to Section
Frequency
1. Prepare and complete officer transition
Jump to Section
First week in office
2. Complete proposed High Phi budget and calendar
Jump to Section
Prior to beginning of each academic term
3. Prepare for and participate in High Zeta retreat
Jump to Section
Prior to High Zeta retreat
4. Choose participants for the Initiation Ritual
Jump to Section
First month of each academic term
5. Inventory all Ritual Equipment and other chapter ceremonial equipment
Jump to Section
During officer transition
6. Store all Initiation Ritual equipment in a secure and appropriate location
Jump to Section
Ongoing (365 days)
7. Perform and memorize the Associate Member Ceremony
Jump to Section
Within a week of bid acceptance
8. Perform a debrief of the Associate Member Ceremony
Jump to Section
Within a week of ceremony
9. Hold a reflection and make-meaning session following each pre-initiation event
Jump to Section
After each pre-initiation event
10. Ensure the High Gamma submitted a request for Initiation
Jump to Section
30 days prior to Initiation
11. Perform the Initiation Ritual as authorized by the Office of Administration
Jump to Section
Upon authorization by the Office of Administration
12. Hold a ZAX session with newly initiated members following the Initiation Ritual
Jump to Section
Within one week of Initiation
13. Prepare and Present in the Call to Brotherhood program
Jump to Section
As necessary
14. Prepare for ELC individual officer meeting
Jump to Section
Each academic term
15. Transition to the incoming High Phi
Jump to Section
End of officer term
Basic / Core
The lamp is symbolic with learning and consistent with the initial levels of the Inner Circle and True Leader (Faithful Steward). At the basic level, the officer demonstrates an understanding of the essential duties needed to meet the most basic duties of his High Zeta position.
Navigation
Basic Advanced Exceptional Appendix Personal
Officer Task
Operations Guide
Advanced Operations Frequency
1. Arrange for the appropriate debriefs during the Initiation Ritual
Jump to Section
At the appropriate times during the Initiation Ritual
2. Perform the Officer Installation Ceremony
Jump to Section
End of officer term
3. Perform the memorized ritual for conducting business meetings
Jump to Section
During each chapter business meeting
Advanced / Essential The cross & crescent are symbolic of growth and the cross is our guide in folowing that ideal. At the advanced level, the officer not only meets basic expectations but demonstrates a higher understanding and is able to effectively teach and delegate officer tasks to associate members and other brothers in the chapter.
Navigation
Basic Advanced Exceptional Appendix Personal
Jump to Section
Officer Tasks
Operations Guide
Exceptional Operations Jump to Section
Frequency
1. Arrange for the Ritual narration during the Initiation Ritual
Jump to Section
Each academic term
2. Perform the graduating senior ceremony for graduating members
Jump to Section
Prior to the graduation of senior members
Exceptional / Preferred The exceptional officer incorporates the basic and advanced expectations and is able to tie the Core Values and Learning Model in his efforts to teach and delegate officer tasks to associate members and other brothers in the chapter.
Jump to Appendix
Supplementary material that support each task required as an officer
Jump to Personal Tasks
Write in your own personal goals for your term as an officer task required as an officer
Basic Advanced Exceptional Appendix
Officer Tasks
Personal
Navigation
Prepare and complete officer transition
According to Code III-22 of the Constitution and Statutory Code of Lambda Chi Alpha “The High Phi shall be Chairman of the Committee on Ceremonies and Rituals. He shall plan and supervise a program involving the Installation of Officers, Ritual for Conducting Business Meetings, Associate Member Ceremony, Graduation and Alumni Ceremony, and Initiation Ritual. He shall work with other elected or appointed officers of the Chapter in a program of Member education regarding the ceremonies of the Fraternity. He shall have such further powers and duties as may be prescribed by the Laws of the Fraternity.” The general responsibilities of the High Phi are as follows: • Plan and organize all rituals, including the Business Meeting Ritual, Associate Member Ceremony,
Graduation and Alumni Ceremony, and Initiation Ritual.
• Organize education regarding the ceremonies of the fraternity.
Officer Transition For a chapter/colony to be successful, it is important that its officers don’t “reinvent the wheel”. Valuable information and resources are lost each year due to an ineffective transition process. A successful transition can be accomplished when both the outgoing High Phi and incoming High Phi sit down and evaluate the calendar as well as execution of events that occurred the previous year. The most efficient way to conduct an officer transition is to meet and evaluate the Officer Transition Checklist. To assist in this process, an Officer Transition Checklist was created and can be found in the Appendix
Navigation
Basic Advanced Exceptional Appendix Personal
Duties and Responsibilities
Complete a proposed officer budget and calendar Each High Zeta officer needs to plan in advance what his financial needs will be. This will help prevent problems from occurring, such as not having adequate funds toward the end of the semester/ quarter. First, the officer should create a list of events or activities that he would like to implement throughout the budget timeframe.
Once the officer has developed a list of notes, he should begin to create a budget proposal. The officer should take into account the following information: • The previous officer’s budget and actual expenditures • Chapter/Colony goals • Officer goals • Chapter/Colony Mission and Vision
It should be noted that the document being created is only a proposal and does not mean that the Executive Committee and/or the chapter/colony will approve the budget. An example of an officer budget can be found in the Appendix
Creating a Balanced Calendar A balanced calendar provides the chapter with a solid programming schedule, versus a schedule dominated by one area of operations. It is also important for all members to know their commitments well in advance to increase attendance. As preparation, each High Zeta officer and appointed position should be prepared with possible dates for his events and/or programs. The officer should also come prepared with a back-up plan if the dates they want are taken.
Continued
Navigation
Basic Advanced Exceptional Appendix Personal
Setting up a Budget and Calendar
Complete a proposed officer budget and calendar
• First day of class
• Homecoming
• Breaks / Holidays
• Dead & Finals Week
• Formal Recruitment
• All Greek/IFC Events
• Mid Terms
• Campus Sporting Events
• Homecoming • Dead & Finals Week • All Greek/IFC Events • Campus Sporting Events
Have officers suggest events and programs
• Chapter/Colony Retreat
• Recruitment Events
• High Zeta Retreat
• Recruitment Retreat
• Faculty Reception
• Academic Educational Sessions
• Parents’ Weekend
• Ritual
• North American Food Drive
• ZAX Sessions
• Chapter/Colony Awards Banquet
• Officer Installation Ceremony
• Philanthropies
• Informal Training Session
• Community Service Events
• Academic Educational Sessions
• Harm Reduction Educational Sessions
• Social Events
• Pre-Initiation
• Alumni Events
• FRED Sessions
• Formal
• Big Brother / Little Brother Ceremony
• House Clean-Up
• Associate Member Ceremony
Continued
Navigation
Basic Advanced Exceptional Appendix Personal
Place all school dates on the calendar.
Complete a proposed officer budget and calendar
• Chapter Roster Due • Chapter Statements Due • Event Planning Forms Due • IFC Balance
After deciding the priorities, spread the events and programs evenly throughout the term. Remember, the main priority of going to school is to get an education. Once the calendar is completed it should be sent to the Executive Committee for review. It should then be sent to the chapter/colony for approval.
It should be noted on the schedule what events are mandatory and which ones are voluntary.
Navigation
Basic Advanced Exceptional Appendix Personal
Don’t forget about deadlines
Prepare for and participate in the High Zeta Retreat
The High Zeta Retreat A retreat allows a chapter to step back and examine its membership and operations, to renew its commitment to each other and Lambda Chi Alpha and to plan for the future. Depending on the chapter’s circumstances, there may be annual or semiannual retreats for the High Zeta. A retreat for the High Zeta focuses on goal setting, calendar planning and building a winning team of officers. A standard High Zeta retreat includes a round table discussion of each officer and the individual standards areas that officer is responsible for. The High Zeta provides feedback and suggestions for improving each area. The High Zeta then sets priorities for the chapter’s goals for the coming year or semester and determines what committees and officers were responsible for achieving each goal. A discussion on working together and opening lines of communication is also held. If possible, the High Zeta participate in team building activities (this requires the use of outside facilitators specially trained for such events) to build trust in each other and understanding of other people’s opinions. The most effective goals setting method is the SMART method: • Specific: Make goals quantitative; instead of “I want to better the chapter’s ritual knowledge,” say, “I
want to conduct four ZAX sessions this semester.”
• Measurable: Break down the goals into action steps: to improve chapter ritual knowledge, I need to
conduct one ZAX session per month, spend an hour preparing each session, and review the sessions in the High Phi Manual.
• Attainable: Is this goal realistic: goals should allow us to reach, but not be out of reach. • Relevant: Focus on the task at hand. What are the issues within the chapter that could be addressed
through ZAX sessions?
• Timely: When do we want to accomplish this goal?
Continued
Navigation
Basic Advanced Exceptional Appendix Personal
Preparing for the High Zeta Retreat
Prepare for and participate in the High Zeta Retreat
• ZAX sessions • Initiation ritual memorization/practices/date • Associate Member Ceremony memorization/practices/date • Business Meeting memorization/practices/date • Graduating Senior Ceremony memorization/practices/date • Pre-Initiation schedule • Replacing/fixing/inventorying ritual equipment. • Number of alumni attending initiation ritual • Guests/parents attending Associate Member Ceremony • Specific suggestions from ELC report, etc.
Navigation
Basic Advanced Exceptional Appendix Personal
Sample items to consider for goals:
Choose participants for the Initiation Ritual
Choosing a ritual team is an essential task of being High Phi and needs to be done within the first two to three weeks of the semester. It is always good to get the recently initiated members involved in the Ritual Team because they are usually the most enthusiastic about learning about ritual. It also helps reinforce what they just learned and helps them reconnect with the oaths they have recently taken. There are several approaches to selecting a team: Tryouts and applications, for example, are some of the more efficient ways of choosing a Ritual Team. For tryouts you should set and announce the audition dates a week in advance for the brothers to choose what part they would like to audition for and prepare. Set two to three days for the auditions so every brother has the opportunity to audition. After hosting the auditions review the performances and begin to establish your team. Keep in mind the character traits and what each brother can do to enhance our Ritual. The Ritual is a learning experience for the associates and needs to be performed at the highest quality. An example of how to create a Ritual Team can be found in the Appendix. After you have established a ritual team, the next step is to set a rehearsal schedule. There are several different approaches to a successful rehearsal schedule that will vary depending on the experience of your team and the time you have until the Initiation Ritual. If you have a very experienced team you may be able to have one rehearsal a week where all degrees are rehearsed. This may not be the case for most chapters. More times than not a chapter will be integrating younger, less experienced members into the Ritual Team and will need more practice. For these cases, four rehearsals a week is recommended with each degree getting its own rehearsal with a fourth for the complete Ritual. Some may feel that the chapter may not have time to have four rehearsals a week and may only have three per week. It is recommended to rehearse six to eight weeks prior to Initiation. Examples of rehearsal schedules can be found in the Appendix.
Navigation
Basic Advanced Exceptional Appendix Personal
Creating a Ritual Team
Inventory This is where all Ritual the Title Equipment goes for and the Header other chapter of the Manual Officer ceremonial equipment Task
According to ARTICLE III-3 of the Constitution and Statutory Code of Lambda Chi Alpha,
“The Chapter must have possession and ownership of a complete set of Ritual equipment.”
To ensure you have a complete set of ritual equipment, utilize: • Ritual Ceremonies Equipment – Inventory Checklist in the Appendix.
For robes, capes, hoods, collars, masks, blindfolds and other miscellaneous equipment, utilize: • Kalamazoo Regalia Order Form in the Appendix.
For ritual books, email
[email protected] with the order form attached: • Lambda Chi Alpha Ritual Book Order Form in the Appendix
Navigation
Basic Advanced Exceptional Appendix Personal
Equipment Inventory
Storeisall This where Initiation the Title Ritual goes equipment for the Header in a secure of theand Manual Officer appropriate location Task
The ritual equipment of a chapter should be stored in a small room or closet set aside for that purpose. A trunk or the coffin is not satisfactory due to crowding and inability to hang the ritual robes. The “ritual closet” should be kept locked at all times; only the High Phi and the High Alpha should normally retain keys. The best arrangement of equipment is by the degree in which it is used.
If the chapter is unable or unwilling to store ritual equipment in the chapter facility, other options include renting a storage unit or storing ritual equipment in the closet of either the High Phi, High Alpha, or High Pi. Please note, all storage locations must be secured by a padlock or deadbolt, and should only be accessible to the High Phi, High Alpha, and High Pi.
Navigation
Basic Advanced Exceptional Appendix Personal
How to Store Ritual Equipment
Memorize This is where and theperform Title goes the for Associate the Header Member of the Manual Officer Task Ceremony
Associate Membership Ceremony can be found in the Appendix.
Navigation
Basic Advanced Exceptional Appendix Personal
Although the script calls for the individuals holding the offices of High Alpha, High Beta, High Phi, High Delta, and High Kappa to perform the ceremony, substitutes may be used. What is vital is the complete memorization of the ceremony followed by the sufficient rehearsal so the ceremony proceeds smoothly. The officers should be similarly attired, preferably in jacket and tie.
Perform a debrief of the Associate Member Ceremony
The Associate member ceremony is the beginning of the journey to brotherhood. This is the introduction of our fraternity, obligations, and values. It is important for the associate member to truly grasp what has happened during the ceremony. This ceremony is a condensed version of Theta Kappa Nu Fraternity’s pledge degree and three initiation degrees. This session can be used as a transition into a discussion on Theta Kappa Nu history. Theta Kappa Nu Fraternity’s ZAX session can be found in the Appendix. Debrief With all of the brothers and associate members, the High Phi should discuss the importance and meaning behind the Associate Member Ceremony. The High Phi should be prepared to ask the associate members what they experienced and how that experience made them feel. Emphasis should be placed on the oath and the values presented in the ceremony and the application of those values to life. Sample questions: • Begin a discussion about Fraternity and its meaning for each person. • Why does the High Delta talk about Fraternity? • How do the clasped hands reflect Fraternity? • What are the stereotypes involving Fraternities in the media and on your campus? • How do you overcome these stereotypes? • Begin a discussion of Patriotism and what it means for each person. • Why does the High Beta talk about Patriotism? • How does a flag reflect Patriotism? • How does a person show Patriotism? • Do you know someone who has demonstrated a great sense of Patriotism? • How has this person’s example influenced your thinking about what it means to be Patriotic? • How do you show your Patriotism in your day-to-day life? • Begin a discussion on Learning and what it means for each person.
Continued
Navigation
Basic Advanced Exceptional Appendix Personal
Debriefing the Associate Member Ceremony
Perform a debrief of the Associate Member Ceremony
• How does the Greek lamp reflect Learning? • What is the importance of Learning to Lambda Chi Alpha? • What is the importance of Learning to society? • Begin a discussion on Morality and what it means for each person. • Why does the High Kappa talk about Morality? • How does the Bible reflect Morality? • What morals do you live your life by? • What does “Every Man a Man” mean to you? • What values should a man possess?
Navigation
Basic Advanced Exceptional Appendix Personal
• Why does the High Phi talk about Learning?
Hold a reflection and make-meaning session following each pre-initiation event
During pre-initiation, it is essential that the Lambda Chi Alpha Learning Model is followed. By following the Learning Model, members will not only have meaningful experiences that align with the Exoteric Mysteries program, but will also gain understanding of the purpose of each event by holding reflection and meaning making sessions after each event. Remember when debriefing to incorporate the Lambda Chi Alpha Learning Model. The Lambda Chi Alpha Learning Model is a four step process. The True Brother initiative involves a progression from experience focused on the Seven Core Values and Four Roles of True Brotherhood to self-reflection about this experience to creating a sense of personal meaning for it to sharing this process with other brothers. The High Kappa’s responsibility is to facilitate and support this learning model. Have associate members share their experiences with big brothers then ask them to spend some private time reflecting on the experience. You might suggest some ideas or questions to help your big brothers and little brothers reflect productively. Then, have the pair spend time together discussing the experience, the associate member’s reactions to it, and its meaning/significance in relation to the focus of the week’s curriculum—The Seven Core Values and Four Roles of True Brotherhood. Be sure to share your own thoughts, feelings, and related experiences. It is often useful to periodically review your debriefing experiences with everyone in conversation or group meetings. Remember: • Share the experience. • Encourage self-reflection • Discuss and debrief the experience • Relate experiences to Outer Circle concepts and goals • Share your own experience and journey
Here is an example of the learning model • Experience – Conduct the bridge builder activity • Reflection – Spend time thinking about what exactly happened during the bridge builder activity • Making Meaning - Make connections between the experience and the Fraternity/your personal
experiences
• Share - Discuss your thoughts during the debrief
Navigation
Basic Advanced Exceptional Appendix Personal
Holding Appropriate Debriefs
Ensure the High Gamma submitted a request for Initiation
In order to ensure that the chapter receives approval for Initiation, the chapter’s High Gamma will need to submit the “Request an Initiate Class” via Officer Portal no later than 30 days prior to the initiation date.
Please Note: The High Gamma will only be able to select Associate Members for initiation if they have validated the link that they received via email after they completed the Associate Membership Ceremony. Associate Members who have not validated their links will appear in red on the “Request Initiate Class” form. The chapter’s High Gamma will be able to resend validation links by clicking the link next to the Associate Members that is titled “Resend Validation Link”.
Navigation
Basic Advanced Exceptional Appendix Personal
Requesting Initiation
Perform the Initiation Ritual as authorized by the Office of Administration
Once the High Gamma has submitted the request for initiation and ONLY upon authorization of the Office of Administration, the High Phi can organize the execution of the Initiation Ritual.
Navigation
Basic Advanced Exceptional Appendix Personal
Performing the Initiation Ritual
Hold a ZAX session with newly initiated members following the Initiation Ritual
According to PAGE 115 in the Ritual Manual, under “General Arrangements”, a Zeta Alpha Chi: Technical Session should be completed within 1-7 days after initiation. To see the outline of the Zeta Alpha Chi: Technical Session, utilize pages 114-133 of the Ritual Manual. To reference the 1st Degree, utilize pages 49-61 of the Ritual Manual. To reference the 2nd Degree, utilize pages 62-86 of the Ritual Manual. To reference the 3rd Degree, utilize pages 87-110 of the Ritual Manual.
Navigation
Basic Advanced Exceptional Appendix Personal
Holding a ZAX Session
Hold regular ZAX sessions with the brotherhood
Refer to High Phi Manual (Black Book/Ritual Book) pages 11-135 for closed ZAX sessions. For Open ZAX sessions, you can find the Candle Pass ZAX Session and Theta Kappa Nu ZAX Session examples in the Appendix
Navigation
Basic Advanced Exceptional Appendix Personal
Regular ZAX Sessions
Prepare and Present in the Call to Brotherhood program
In order to properly present in the Call to Brotherhood Program (Fraternity Education) the duties of your office, you must ensure that you properly explain all of the duties of your office that are appropriate for Associate Members to know. It is imperative that you explain the duties of your office rather than simply saying “I’m the Ritualist” or “You’ll find out later”.
In order to properly present in the Call to Brotherhood Program, utilize the following information:
According to Code III-22 of the Constitution and Statutory Code of Lambda Chi Alpha,
“The High Phi shall be Chairman of the Committee on Ceremonies and Rituals. He shall plan and supervise a program involving the Installation of Officers, Ritual for Conducting Business Meetings, Associate Member Ceremony, Graduation and Alumni Ceremony, and Initiation Ritual. He shall work with other elected or appointed officers of the Chapter in a program of Member education regarding the ceremonies of the Fraternity. He shall have such further powers and duties as may be prescribed by the Laws of the Fraternity”.
Navigation
Basic Advanced Exceptional Appendix Personal
Presenting in Call to Brotherhood
Prepare for and meet with the ELC during his visit to the chapter
Lambda Chi Alpha maintains a team of educational leadership consultants (ELCs). As one of the most valuable services offered by the General Fraternity, the ELCs provide professional analysis and assistance for each chapter, usually twice annually, with emphasis on chapter operations, membership, or special problems. They work with the chapter officers in evaluating their duties, analyzing current problems, and developing pragmatic programs suited to each chapter’s special situation.
Refer to the High Phi Officer Meeting in the Appendix for what to know and prepare for the ELC meeting.
Navigation
Basic Advanced Exceptional Appendix Personal
Meeting with the ELC
Transition the incoming officer
Navigation
Basic Advanced Exceptional Appendix Personal
Organize an officer transition with the incoming High Phi. Utilize the High Phi Officer Meeting in the Appendix, along with the High Phi Operations Guide.
Arrange for the appropriate debriefs during the Initiation Ritual
Debriefs are a crucial component of implementing our Initiation Ritual. If the Chapter’s debriefs are not conducted in the proper manner, than the ideals and beliefs will not be portrayed correctly. Training your members, Alumni and High Pi is essential to execute a proper debrief. When arranging the appropriate debriefs, remember what our ideals and beliefs are of our Ritual Exemplification. For further instruction and techniques on how to properly conduct a debrief refer to the High Phi Manual. Refer to High Phi Manual (Black Book/Ritual Book) pages73-82 and pages 113-114.
Navigation
Basic Advanced Exceptional Appendix Personal
Debriefing during Initiation
Perform the Officer Installation Ceremony
Once new officers are elected into their positions, there shall be an official installation ceremony performed. Throughout time an officer installation ceremony is crucial to show when each officer takes office. This ceremony should be coordinated by both the outgoing and incoming High Phi. This will assist with the transition of position as well as give support and experience to the newly elected High Phi. Checklist for Installation of Officers: • Meet with High Pi in order to make sure that he can be prepared to perform the installation. • Check with incoming and outgoing High Gammas and High Alphas about the list of incoming
officers and any guests that will be in attendance.
• Account for all equipment necessary. (Delta table, Officer collars, etc.)
The Officer Installation Ceremony can be found in the Appendix
Navigation
Basic Advanced Exceptional Appendix Personal
Officer Installation Ceremony
Perform the ritual for conducting business meetings
The Ritual for conducting business meetings should be used at all business meetings of each chapter and colony and of the General Fraternity. Both initiated and associate members should be present. Guests may also be present, if appropriate to the meeting. This ceremony is not used with the Associate Member Ceremony, the Initiation Ritual, the Installation of Officers when conducted as a separate ceremony, or a Memorial to a Member. The High Alpha, High Beta, and High Phi must memorize the appropriate parts. Each initiated member must memorize the creed.
At meetings of the General Assembly a roll call of the chapters and colonies is substituted for the member roll call. Neat, casual dress is appropriate for most settings, with more formal attire for special occasions. Equipment: • Altar or deltoid table • Plain white tablecloth • Greek lamp • Bible • Fire extinguisher • Officer collars and pendants for each officer with a Greek-letter title (Optional) • Coat of arms painting (Optional) • Flag of country chapter is located (Optional) • Fraternity flag (Optional)
Participating officers: • High Alpha • High Beta • High Phi
The Business Meeting is located in the Appendix
Navigation
Basic Advanced Exceptional Appendix Personal
Business Meetings
Arrange This is where for the theRitual Title goes Narration for theduring Header theofInitiation the Manual Officer Task Ritual
The Narration of the ritual is an explanation of each degree as you are progressing through the ritual exemplification. This is done to further our understanding of each degree and to remind us of the oaths we have bound ourselves irrevocably too.
The narration of the ritual is a great way for the brothers to breaking down and analyzing each degree as they progress through the ritual. This also works as a refresher for alumni that attend initiation. The narration should be performed at the end of each degree with third coming after the end of second. There is no designated person to perform the narration but it is recommended that the High Pi, Alumnus, or an older brother in the chapter to take this task. It would be best to have the High Pi or an alumnus perform the narration as opposed to the High Phi because he should concentrate on a smooth running initiation.
For ritual narration, email your ELC with the order form attached: Lambda Chi Alpha Ritual Book Order Form in the Appendix
Basic Advanced Exceptional Appendix
Narrating Ritual
Personal
Navigation
Perform This is where the graduating the Title goes senior for the ceremony Headerfor of the Manual Officer graduating members Task
There is an open and a closed Graduation ceremony. The open is an exoteric ceremony, open to members and non-members alike. This ceremony is to reaffirm and continue the dedication the graduating senior has shown throughout his collegiate career. This ceremony should be performed after the chapter has elected new officers and before graduation. All parts should be memorized. Attendees should be dressed in badge attire. Equipment: • Active Badge • Altar and cloth • Associate Member Pin • Bible (Open to Matthew 7: 24-27; The Parable of the Builder) • Cross and Crescent Collars with Pendants (One for each Participating Brother; One
for Participating
Alumnus)
• Cross and Crescent Pyramid (Other Cross and Crescent emblem may be
substituted.) • Fire Extinguisher • Greek lamp • Officer Collars and Pendants for 7 Members of Performance Team
Performance Team: • High Alpha • High Beta • High Gamma
Personal
• High Epsilon
Basic Advanced Exceptional Appendix
Graduation Ceremony
• High Kappa • High Tau
Continued
Navigation
Perform This is where the graduating the Title goes senior for the ceremony Headerfor of the Manual Officer graduating members Task
• Alumnus
For the Open Graduation and Alumni Ceremony log on to Officer Portal • The Open Graduation and Alumni Ceremony can be found in the Appendix
For the Closed Senior Ritual, email your ELC with the order form attached: Lambda Chi Alpha Ritual Book Order Form in the Appendix-- Repeated Content (Same information in “Equipment Inventory”)
Basic Advanced Exceptional Appendix
• High Phi
Personal
Navigation
Officer Transition Checklist
Duties and Responsibilities • What are my officer duties and responsibilities? • Approximately how much time do I spend with each?
Advisers • Do I have an adviser? If so, what is the role between the two of us? • What is my role with the Greek adviser? • Who is the educational leadership consultant in this area?
Officer Manual • Do you have a copy of the officer manual? • Were there any sections that you found more beneficial?
Ceremonies/Rituals • Do I have a role in the Associate Member Ceremony? • Do I have a role in the Ritual for Conducting Business Meetings?
Officer Notebook • Do you have an officer notebook? • What should be included in it?
Constitution and Statutory Code, By-Laws • Are there any policies that directly relate to this office? • Are there any policies that I am responsible for enforcing?
Officer Reports • Are there any reports that I am responsible for? • If so, when, by whom, and how do they need to be completed?
Event Planning Form • What is the Event Planning Form? • When do I need to complete them?
Continued
Navigation
Committees • What committees am I on? • What do I need to know?
Basic Advanced Exceptional Appendix Personal
This checklist will provide the incoming and outgoing officer with many talking points that should be covered during the transition.
Officer Transition Checklist
Meetings • What is my role at the chapter meeting? High Zeta meeting? • Am I a member of the Executive Committee?
Programs and Events • What programs, projects, and/or events were effective during the year? Why? • What programs, projects, and/or events were not effective during the year? Why? Yearly Calendar • When did you schedule your events? When should I? • Are there any deadlines I should know about?
Budget • Can I see a copy of your budget from last term? • What areas do I need more or less money? • Brainstorm and develop a budget proposal.
Advice • If you had an additional year, what would you do different? • What advice do you have for me?
Navigation
Additional Questions/Concern
Basic Advanced Exceptional Appendix Personal
Officer Goals • What were your goals? • What goals were met and which ones were not? Why? • Brainstorm and develop new goals
Budget Example ii. Budget Example
Budget Notes: List events, activities, supplies, etc. that you would like to implement or utilize.
Example: Office of the High Phi - Missing Ritual Equipment - Replacing Equipment - Brother Badges - Food
Budget Proposal: What do you project your expenditures to be during the next budget timeline (semester, quarter/year)? **Please be specific**
Example of Budget Proposal: Office of the High Phi Missing Ritual Equipment Small Book $200 Phi Manual $1,000 Total $1,200
Replacing Equipment Candles $25 String $10 Total $35
Brother Badges 10 Active Badges $100 Total $100
Food Silent Supper $300 Total $300
Grand Total $1,635 Next, have the High Alpha, High Tau, the previous officer, and one at-large officer offer feedback on your budget proposal. The officers should answer the following questions: What is missing? What should be deleted? Is an item over/under budget? Any other thoughts?
Continued
Navigation
Basic Advanced Exceptional Appendix Personal
You should develop a budget or operating plan for the entire academic year. It is recommended that you plan for each semester or quarter and add the summer months if applicable.
Creating a Ritual Team iv. Creating a Ritual Team Tryouts:
WHEN
WHO
Set and announce audition dates
February 1, 2013
High Phi
Host auditions
February 2, 2013
High Phi
February 3, 2013
Ritual Team
February 4, 2013 Review Auditions
February 5, 2013
High Phi
Host second round of auditions if needed
February 6, 2013
Ritual Team
Assign parts to ritual team, sign contracts and distribute ritual books
February 7, 2013
High Phi Ritual Team
Applications:
WHAT
WHEN
WHO
Collect Applications
Second chapter meeting
High Phi
Review Applications for eligibility
Executive meeting after second chapter meeting
High Phi Executive Board
Assign and distribute parts
Third chapter meeting
High Phi
Distribute Applications
First chapter meeting
Navigation
High Phi
Basic Advanced Exceptional Appendix Personal
WHAT
Ritual Team Rehearsals Sample rehearsal schedules: 12:00 pm
Monday
Tuesday
Wednesday
Thursday
Friday
Saturday
Sunday 1st Degree 2nd Degree 3rd Degree
Monday
Tuesday
Wednesday
Thursday
Friday
Saturday
Sunday 1st Degree 2nd Degree 3rd Degree
Saturday
Sunday
1:00 pm 2:00 pm 3:00 pm
12:00 pm 1:00 pm 2:00 pm 3:00 pm 4:00 pm 5:00 pm 6:00 pm 7:00 pm
2nd Degree
st
1 Degree
3rd Degree
8:00 pm
5:00 pm 6:00 pm 7:00 pm 8:00 pm
Monday 1st Degree 1st Degree
Tuesday
Wednesday 2nd Degree 2nd Degree
Thursday
Friday
3rd Degree 3rd Degree
Navigation
Basic Advanced Exceptional Appendix Personal
v. Ritual Team Rehearsals
Equipment Inventory Ritual Ceremonies Equipment – Inventory Checklist Zeta or Colony: ___________________ High Phi: ________________________
Date: ____________
_____ 1 Printed Copy of the High Phi Manual
_____ 3 Inner Circle Evolutions Manuals (If applicable)
Book # _____ Condition __________
Book # _______ Condition __________ Book # _______ Condition __________ Book # _______ Condition __________
_____ 7 Printed Copies of the Initiation Ritual
Book # _____ Condition __________ Senior Ritual _____ Book # _____ Condition __________ Senior Ritual _____ Book # _____ Condition __________ Senior Ritual _____ Book # _____ Condition __________ Senior Ritual _____ Book # _____ Condition __________ Senior Ritual _____ Book # _____ Condition __________ Senior Ritual _____ Book # _____ Condition __________ Senior Ritual _____
_____ 1 Chart of the Outer Circle (form 24) _____ 1 Copy of the Ritual Narration
_____ 7 Officers’ robes: robe, cape, hood and sash _____ 21 Officers’ masks _____ 9 Officers’ collars with pendants High Alpha - Archon High Beta - Basileus High Pi - Presbyter High Gamma - Grammatist High Theta High Tau - Tamias High Phi - Phylast High Epsilon - Epistate High Iota
Gold collar Green collar Green collar Green collar Green collar Purple collar Purple collar Purple collar Purple collar
___ ___ ___ ___ ___ ___ ___ ___ ___
Gavel pendant Fasces pendant Scroll pendant Quill pendant Bridge pendant Key pendant Sword pendant Torch pendant Crossed swords pendant
___ ___ ___ ___ ___ ___ ___ ___ ___
High Delta High Kappa High Sigma High Rho Good Brother Good Alumni
Black collar Purple collar Green collar Gold collar White collar White collar
___ ___ ___ ___ ___ ___
Associate Member Pendant Cross Pendant Anchor Pendant Heart Pendant Ritual Pearl Pendant Senior Ritual Pendant
___ ___ ___ ___ ___ ___
_____ 1 Candidate’s robe _____ Non-participating candidates’ robes or similar _____ Candidates’ blindfolds _____ Candidates’ binding cords _____ 6 Candidates’ collars with pendants
Navigation
Basic Advanced Exceptional Appendix Personal
vi. Equipment Inventory
Equipment Inventory _____ 1 Candle holder at the coffin head _____ 1 Coat of arms painting _____ 1 Electronic badge _____ 1 Spot-light _____ 2 Extension Cords _____ 1 Set of window darkening material _____ 1 Fire extinguisher _____ 2 Flashlights and batteries _____ 1 Recording of Chopin’s Funeral March _____ 1 Flag of the nation in which the chapter is located _____ 1 Fraternity Flag _____ 1 Gavel _____ 6 Copies of the Open Rituals _____ 1 Copy of Ritual – What and Why
Navigation
Basic Advanced Exceptional Appendix Personal
_____ 1 Delta Pi plaque _____ 1 Candle holder near Delta Pi plaque _____ 1 Delta (on the floor) _____ 1 Triangular alter _____ 1 Alter cloth set (Purple, Green, and Gold) _____ 1 Bible _____ 1 Greek lamp _____ 1 Bottle of lamp oil _____ 1 Bowl of Sand _____ 5 Grains of corn _____ 2 Swords _____ 1 Water basin _____ 1 White hand towel _____ 1 Compass _____ 1 Sandglass _____ 1 7-Branched brass candelabrum _____ 9 Red candles _____ 1 Deltoid candelabrum _____ 5 White candles _____ 1 Pallet or coffin
Equipment Order Form
Basic Advanced Exceptional Appendix Personal
Continued
Navigation
Equipment Order Form
Basic Advanced Exceptional Appendix Personal
Navigation
Ritual Book Order Form
Basic Advanced Exceptional Appendix Personal
Navigation
vii. Associate Member Ceremony Associate Member Ceremony
Continued
Navigation
Basic Advanced Exceptional Appendix Personal
THE OPEN RITUALS OF LAMBDA CHI ALPHA FRATERNITY The ceremonies and customary material contained in this booklet are exoteric and thus may be shared with nonmembers. Indeed, a strong chapter will use the Associate Member Ceremony and Officer Installation as opportunities to place the purposes and ideals of the Fraternity before individuals such as parents, college or university officials, and prospective members. The positive public relations value of inviting nonmembers to our open rituals cannot be overestimated; and we should never forgo an opportunity to recruit new members. Only in unusual circumstances should a nonmember be present at a chapter business meeting. But it is quite appropriate to share the text of the Ritual for conducting Business Meetings with any interested individual. The custom of saying grace before a meal where members are gathered is strongly encouraged as a means of keeping our shared ideals constantly before our eyes. A memorial to a deceased brother may take many forms. Lambda Chi Alpha does not have a prescribed burial ritual or memorial service. Rather, this section contains possibilities that can be adapted to the particular circumstances. ASSOCIATE MEMBER CEREMONY Policy This is an open ceremony to which may be invited parents and families of associate members, local alumni, college or university officials, friends of members, and recruitment prospects. This ceremony is a condensation of the pledge degree and three initiation degrees of the Theta Kappa Nu Fraternity. At the Union in 1939 this means was selected as the primary device for preserving the ritual heritage of Theta Kappa Nu in the combined brotherhood. The officers [and all members present, initiated and associate] should be attired in coat and tie. Although the five officers named ordinarily perform the ceremony, substitutes may be used. The Associate Member Ceremony must be completely memorized, including all movements. Therefore, sufficient rehearsals must be conducted to assure that the ceremony proceeds smoothly. Equipment altar and plain white altar cloth coat of arms painting on wall flag of the country or countries of the candidates
Associate Member Ceremony
Continued
Navigation
Basic Advanced Exceptional Appendix Personal
Greek lamp and lamp oil the Bible list of the full names of the candidates a copy of form 600A for each candidate to sign (High Gamma supplies) an associate member pin for each candidate a fire extinguisher The Associate Members are told to await instructions at the entrance to the room in which they are to be inducted. Each must have signed the Report of Associate Membership, Form 600A. Each is given an Associate Member Pin and instructed to place it on his shirt (or pullover sweater) over his heart. [The High Phi lights the Greek lamp and opens the Bible to Psalm 133.] [The five High Zeta officers take their places in a semicircle behind the altar as follows, left to right as viewed from the audience: Delta, Beta, Alpha, Phi, Kappa.] Opening H. Alpha Brothers, there await our pleasure [states the number] candidates whom we have invited to become members of Lambda Chi Alpha, and who have pledged their acceptance of our standards and ideals. They are [gives full names of each]. If there are no objections we shall proceed with their instruction. [pauses] Brother High Kappa, you will retire, ask the questions, and present for instruction all who answer satisfactorily. [The High Kappa retires and reads to the associate members the Obligation found on the Report of Associate Membership. Each associate is asked if he subscribes completely and without reservation to the entire Obligation.] [The High Kappa then directs the associate members to form in single file facing the door.] Induction [The High Kappa knocks on the door four times.] [The High Phi moves to the door and opens it slightly.] H. Kappa The candidates subscribe to the Obligations of Lambda Chi Alpha and now seek instruction. [The High Phi moves to a position near the base of the altar.]
Associate Member Ceremony
Navigation
Basic Advanced Exceptional Appendix Personal
H. Phi Brother High Alpha, Brother High Kappa returns with the candidates who are prepared to receive our instruction. H. Alpha Let them enter. [The High Phi returns to the door and opens it.] H. Phi Enter. [The High Kappa enters the room followed by the candidates in single file. He indicates to them where to stand so that they form an arc facing the altar.] [After the last candidate has entered the High Phi closes the door and follows the procession to his station.] [The High Kappa returns to his station.] H. Kappa Brother High Alpha, I present candidates for instruction in the duties and obligations of Associate Members of Lambda Chi Alpha. Summary of Ideals H. Alpha Worthy candidates, the objectives of Lambda Chi Alpha are the establishment of a brotherhood for the cultivation of good will among men; the fostering of the highest ideals of patriotism; the acquirement of sound learning; and the observance of the laws of God. We hold that it is the duty of every man to makeof himself a man, and that he can do so through his own effort, with the help of God and his fellow man. We take as a guide the Holy Bible and as an exemplar, Jesus of Nazareth. [The High Alpha steps forward to the altar, still facing the associate members.] H. Alpha If you seek to join us in an effort to attain these objectives, you will place your right hand over your left breast, and take the Oath of an Aspirant. [The candidates do as directed.] H. Alpha Each of you will repeat after me: Associate Member Oath Of my own free will, / I, [state your full name], / do promise and swear, / before God / and before the brothers of Lambda Chi Alpha, / that I will / for the rest of my life / abide by these solemn pledges: /
Associate Member Ceremony
Navigation
Basic Advanced Exceptional Appendix Personal
I will never divulge / any of the secrets of Lambda Chi Alpha / which I shall learn now or hereafter/ to any person / who is not a member of the Fraternity. / I accept the obligations / with which I was charged / before I entered the chapter room / without reservation or evasion. / I will strive with the help of God / to be true to the ideals and objectives of Lambda Chi Alpha. / To which I pledge my oath and faith, / in accordance with / the Christian teachings of this Ritual /and as a gentleman. / For the least violation / I invoke upon myself / expulsion, / suspension, / or other lawful penalty. / So help me God! Declaration of Acceptance H. Alpha We accept you as Aspirants and assure you that we will always be ready and willing to help you. [The High Alpha resumes his station.] H. Alpha Brother High Delta, you will instruct the Aspirants regarding their first obligation as Associate Members of Lambda Chi Alpha. [The High Delta takes a position beside the altar.] Quest H. Delta Worthy Aspirants, you have set out upon a journey in which I trust you will be successful. Let me assure you that we stand ready to assist you in your undertaking. Do not rely alone upon your own strength. Instead, seek the advice and support of your friends; or better, go to Almighty God, the source of all strength. From time immemorial man has sought to impress many lessons by means of symbols. This we now do. [The High Delta pauses, then points to the clasped hands on the coat of arms.] Fraternity H. Delta The clasped hands are the symbol of Fraternity. May they ever remind you of your obligation and responsibilities as a brother. Within our Fraternity, as elsewhere throughout the world, there is many a man who is handicapped in his hard fight for success, but who with brotherly encouragement and help, may reach his goal. We must be ever mindful of our duty to assist others, particularly our brothers. Proof of your sincerity of purpose has already been demonstrated by your earnest desire for admittance to our brotherhood, and by your acceptance of the obligations of friendship. [The High Delta resumes his station.] H. Alpha Brother High Beta, you will give instruction relative to the ideal of patriotism. [The High Beta takes a position beside the altar.]
Associate Member Ceremony
Navigation
Basic Advanced Exceptional Appendix Personal
Patriotism H. Beta Worthy Aspirants, [he points to flag], this is a symbol of the freedom, justice and democracy which our land offers. Believing these to be ideals which offer man the best opportunity to attain his true dignity, we support them. This is by no means a blind allegiance, but is tempered by a keen sense of moral obligation. As a true patriot, you will be expected to support these ideals and to work to make this land a better place in which to live. A true patriot is tolerant of others; he assists his fellow man in his efforts to live a productive, meaningful and happy life; he is careful to guard his own rights and the rights of others. [The High Beta resumes his station.] H. Alpha Brother High Phi, you will instruct the Aspirants as to the requirements of sound learning. [The High Phi takes a position beside the altar.] Learning H. Phi Worthy Aspirants [he points to lamp], the Greek lamp is the symbol of learning. By it we are reminded that we should ever strive to attain knowledge, understanding, and wisdom for the good of our fellow men. It is this unselfish end which we, as members of Lambda Chi Alpha, should ever have in mind as we fit ourselves for service in the world which lies beyond our college walls. In due time, as you go forth from this institution, prove that you are indeed a man among men by the way you make use of the educational advantages which have been bestowed upon you. Remember that this seat of learning was established here by society for your use, and that in return you owe much to society for the benefits you have enjoyed. [The High Phi resumes his station.] H. Alpha Brother High Kappa, you will give instruction relative to the observance of the laws of God. [The High Kappa takes a position beside the altar.] Religion, Morality H. Kappa Let me remind you that this is a solemn occasion. The Latin motto beneath our coat of arms is "Vir Quisque Vir." [Weer Kwis'-‐kway Weer] [he points to lower streamer of the coat of arms.] Translated, it means, "Every Man a Man." Unless each of you determines to make of himself a man, there is no place for you within Lambda Chi Alpha. To be a true brother, a genuine patriot, and one who employs his learning for the good of society, one must first of all be a man. Within yourselves you have the possibility. The brothers of this Fraternity may help you to attain your goal; but the source of the greatest strength is the One about whom this book speaks. [he points to Bible] I admonish you to govern your lives by the immutable principles which it sets forth. [pause] Worthy Aspirants, as Associate Members of this chapter [colony] you will pass through many new experiences, just as all brothers have done before you. You will be asked to do nothing which a true man
Associate Member Ceremony
Navigation
Basic Advanced Exceptional Appendix Personal
cannot do or should not do. We have invited you to become Associate Members because we are confident that we, as well as you, will profit by our close association. [The High Kappa resumes his station.] [The High Alpha steps to the altar.] Explanation of Symbols H. Alpha As a token of your acceptance of our pledge and of our desire to be of assistance to you, whom we hope to know as brothers, you have been invested with the badge which is the emblem of Associate Membership in Lambda Chi Alpha. It consists of four equilateral triangles, standing for fraternity, patriotism, learning and morality, and upon them has been imposed a monogram of the letters Lambda, Chi, and Alpha, the significance of which will be explained to you at a later time. Reception H. Alpha As a further token of our good will, I extend to you the right hand of fellowship and welcome you as Aspirants among us. [The High Alpha steps forward and shakes hands with each Associate Member, followed by the other officers, chapter members and old Associate Members.]
Pre-Initiation Schedules ix. Pre-‐Initiation Schedules
Example 2: Sunday
Monday 6:00 PM: Introduction of Pre-‐ Initiation Schedule to Associate Members and Brothers 6:15 PM: Lamp Pass 8:30 PM: Lamp Pass Debrief/ dismissal
Tuesday 7:00 PM: Bridge Builder 7:30 PM: Bridge Builder Debrief 8:00 PM: Introduction to Mock Ritual 8:30 Dismissal
Wednesday 7:00 PM: Three Questions 8:00 PM Three Questions Debrief 8:30 Dismissal
Thursday 12:00 PM Big Brother/ Associate Member Lunch 7:00 PM: Mock Ritual 7:45 PM Mock Ritual Debrief 8:15 Dismissal
Friday Saturday 5:00 PM: 1:00 PM: Initiation ZAX Session Ritual Begins
Monday
Tuesday 7:00 PM: Introduction of Pre-‐ Initiation Schedule to Associate Members and Brothers 7:30 PM: Burning of the Faults 9:00 PM: Dismissal
Wednesday 7:30 PM: Burning of the Faults Debrief 8:00 PM: Badge/Pin 9:00 PM: Dismissal
Thursday 7:30 PM: Badge/Pin Debrief 8:00 PM: Crescens Somnium 9:00 PM: Dismissal
Friday 12:00 PM: Big Brother/ Associate Member Lunch 1:00 PM: Crescens Somnium Debrief 6:30 PM: Individual Coat of Arms 7:30 PM: Movie Night
Continued
Navigation
Saturday 11:00 AM: Initiation Ritual Begins **ZAX Session occurring the next Monday night.**
Basic Advanced Exceptional Appendix Personal
Example 1: Sunday
Movie Debrief and dismissal
Pre-Initiation Schedules Monday
Tuesday 6:00 PM: Big Brother/ Little Brother review of fraternity education 7:00 PM: Celebration of Life 7:45 PM: Celebration of Life Debrief/ dismissal
Wednesday 5:00 PM: Big Brother/ Little Brother review of creed and fraternity history 6:00 PM: Mock Ritual 6:15 PM: Mock Ritual Debrief/ dismissal
Navigation
Thursday Friday 5:30 PM: Silent Supper 7:00 PM: Initiation Ritual Begins
Saturday 1:00 PM ZAX Session
Basic Advanced Exceptional Appendix Personal
Example 3: Sunday
Learning Model
The learning model central to the True Brother initiative involves a progression from experience focused on the Seven Core Values and Four Roles of True Brotherhood to self-‐reflection about this experience to create a sense of personal meaning for it to sharing this process with other brothers. Your responsibility is to facilitate and support this learning model. Share the experience with the Associate Members as appropriate and as directed by your High Kappa. Then, help your Associate Members to spend some private time reflecting on his experience. You might suggest some ideas or questions to help your Little Brother reflect productively. Then, spend time together discussing the experience, the Associate Member’s reaction to it, and its meaning/significance in relation to the focus of the week’s curriculum— The Seven Core Values and Four Roles of True Brotherhood. Be sure to share your own thoughts, feelings, and related experiences from your Outer Circle Journey. It is often useful to periodically review your debriefing experiences with the Associate members in conversation or group meetings with your High Kappa and their Big Brothers. Remember: • Share the experience. • Encourage self-‐reflection • Discuss and debrief the experience • Relate experiences to Outer Circle concepts and goals • Share your own experience and journey
Navigation
Basic Advanced Exceptional Appendix Personal
x. Learning Model Learning Model
Request Initiation Class
Continued
Navigation
Basic Advanced Exceptional Appendix Personal
xi. Request Initiation Class
Request Initiation Class
Navigation
Basic Advanced Exceptional Appendix Personal
Officer Installation Ceremony
Opening
[The High Pi should wear the green collar with Scroll pendant. When the ceremony is not conducted by the High Pi his collar is not used.]
The officers of __________ Zeta of Lambda Chi Alpha for the ensuing year having been duly elected as provided for in the Constitution of the Fraternity, we are now gathered here for the purpose of performing the ceremonies of installation. The exalted stations to which these men have been raised by the chapter's will and choice involve great responsibilities, and the manner in which they carry out the duties entrusted to them will determine whether this chapter will flourish or fade into insignificance. We must consider also that the conduct of these men will reflect definitely upon our international fraternity. Whatever honorable acts we may do that return credit to us, increases the prestige of Lambda Chi Alpha; but just as surely, and, alas, much more quickly, do our dishonorable acts bring shame to the name of Lambda Chi Alpha as a whole and not to any one of us alone. These officers are assuming an obligation to guide and direct us; we must at all times remember that it is the duty of each and every brother and associate member to encourage them, to assist them, and to show our confidence and faith in them.
Chapter Officers without Greek-‐letter titles Only the officers designated by Greek letters will be formally installed. At this time we pause to recognize the other chapter officers whose contributions to the strength and welfare of the chapter are no less significant. They are: [Introduce individually the other elected and appointed officers by name and position.] These and the other officers are chosen for their abilities. They are, thus, emblematic of the Latin motto beneath our coat of arms: Vir Quisque Vir [Weer Kwis'-‐kway Weer], Every man a man
Continued
Navigation
Basic Advanced Exceptional Appendix Personal
xii. Officer Installation Ceremony Ceremony for Elected Officers
Officer Installation Ceremony Brothers, Associates, and friends of Lambda Chi Alpha, I have the honor and privilege of installing Brother __________ as High Alpha of this chapter. Please come forward. [Pause until High Alpha comes forward.] __________ [use first name], the high station to which you have been raised involves great responsibilities. The interests, well-‐being, and development of this chapter and the guidance of each brother and associate member are now placed to a large degree in your hands. In order that you may carry out the duties of your office to the best of your ability, consider carefully these rules of action: 1. Strive ardently for the chapter's welfare, but let your efforts be wisely directed. 2. Demand strict adherence to our laws and standards, but look well that there is no fault to be found with your example. 3. Seek the aid of others, but remember that you are responsible for their actions. 4. Heed the advice of all, but do not be swayed by undue influence. 5. Be deliberate in judgment, but prompt in execution. 6. Conduct yourself with dignity, but don't be overbearing. 7. Be firm, but not severe. If you feel that you are not possessed of all these attributes of leadership, know that you may attain them through sincere study, earnest effort, and persistent practice. Make it your goal to strive until these virtues are your own so those who follow you will be guided by your example. I now take great pleasure in investing you with this collar and pendant bearing upon it a GAVEL, your emblem of office, and trust you will always fulfill to advantage the responsibilities, duties and opportunities which it symbolizes. [Invest the High Alpha with the gold collar / gavel pendant. Indicate for him to remain standing to one side facing the audience.]
Continued
Navigation
Basic Advanced Exceptional Appendix Personal
High Alpha
Officer Installation Ceremony It is my privilege to install Brother __________ as High Beta. [Pause until High Beta comes forward.] __________, your task is also one of great importance, for you must at all times be ready to take up the duties of our High Alpha should circumstances require such action. It is also your responsibility to originate, direct, and inspire programs of internal and external involvement for all members which allow each man to actively contribute to the Fraternity and to its various publics. Among these are the campus community, the faculty and administration, other fraternities and sororities, the non-‐fraternity students, parents, alumni, and the community in which this chapter is located. You are the direct contact between our chapter and these publics on whom the welfare and favorable reputation of the Fraternity depends. I now invest you with this collar and pendant bearing upon it the FASCES, your emblem of office. May you fruitfully guide this chapter in community service, campus involvement, public relations, and individual involvement. [Invest the High Beta with the green collar / fasces pendant and indicate that he should stand beside the High Alpha, facing the audience.
High Theta It is my privilege to install Brother as High Theta. [Pause until the High Theta comes forward] , it is your responsibility to originate, direct, and inspire programs of external involvement for all members, which allow each man to contribute to the Fraternity and its various publics. Among these are the campus community, the faculty and administration, other fraternities and sororities, the non-‐fraternity students, parents, alumni, and the community in which this chapter is located. You are the direct contact between our chapter and these publics on whom the welfare and favorable reputation of the Fraternity depends. I now invest you with this collar and pendant bearing upon it the BRIDGE, your emblem of office. May you fruitfully guide this chapter in service and individual involvement. [Invest the High Theta with the green collar / bridge pendant and indicate that he should stand beside the High Beta, facing the audience.]
Continued
Navigation
Basic Advanced Exceptional Appendix Personal
High Beta
Officer Installation Ceremony
It is my privilege to install Brother __________ as High Gamma. [Pause until High Gamma comes forward.] __________, the duties of your office are among the most laborious and precise in the chapter, for you are charged with the responsibility of keeping all the records of the chapter. You are the connecting link in the chain that binds this chapter to the other units of our international Fraternity. You must also preserve the materials for the permanent historical record of the chapter. I now invest you with this collar and pendant bearing upon it the QUILL, your emblem of office. [Invest the High Gamma with the green collar / quill pendant and indicate that he should stand beside the High Beta, facing the audience.]
High Tau It is my privilege to install Brother __________ as High Tau. [Pause until High Tau comes forward.] __________, your office is one of trust, for to you is confided the material welfare of this chapter. Therefore you must at all times exemplify the highest standards of integrity in maintaining the material property, funds, and the financial records entrusted to your care. It is your obligation to administer, faithfully and impartially, the financial affairs of the chapter, to insist upon each member fulfilling his individual obligations promptly, and to preserve the chapter assets in the development of long-‐range stability. I now invest you with this collar and pendant bearing upon it the KEY, your emblem of office. [Invest the High Tau with the purple collar / key pendant and indicate that he should stand beside the High Gamma, facing the audience.]
Continued
Navigation
Basic Advanced Exceptional Appendix Personal
High Gamma
Officer Installation Ceremony It is my privilege to install Brother _____________ as High Iota. [Pause until High Iota comes forward.] _____________, as members of Lambda Chi Alpha we must be ever mindful of our duty to assist and protect others, particularly our own members.It is your obligation to administer a risk management program that promises responsible and mature behavior by all members at all times, and to preserve the ideals of the Fraternity by conducting the operations of the chapter safely, prudently, and in compliance with the laws and policies both of Lambda Chi Alpha and this institution. I now invest you with this collar and pendant bearing upon it the CROSSED SWORDS, your symbol office. [Invest the High Iota with the purple collar/crossed swords pendant and indicate the he should stand beside the High Tau, facing the audience.]
High Kappa It is my privilege to install Brother __________ as High Kappa. [Pause until High Kappa comes forward.] __________, to you is entrusted the education and development of each and every chapter member as a student, as a leader, and as a fully participating member of this chapter. Make it your goal to develop and maintain a program of mature acceptance of responsibility on the part of every undergraduate in this chapter based on the history, aims, ideals, and traditions of our country, this school, and Lambda Chi Alpha. I now invest you with this collar and pendant bearing upon it the CROSS, your emblem of office. [Invest the High Kappa with the purple collar / cross pendant and indicate that he should stand beside the High Tau, facing the audience.]
Continued
Navigation
Basic Advanced Exceptional Appendix Personal
High Iota
Officer Installation Ceremony It is my privilege to install Brother __________ as High Delta. [Pause until High Delta comes forward.] __________, yours is an office demanding both time and skills, for you are entrusted with the duty of providing for the future of this chapter by directing its membership recruitment program. The future of this chapter rests not only in its quantitative strength, but in the scholastic aptitude, leadership potential, strength of character, and dedication to service of the young men attracted to Lambda Chi Alpha. I now invest you with this collar and pendant bearing upon it the EMBLEM OF ASSOCIATE MEMBERSHIP, your symbol of office. [Invest the High Delta with the black collar / associate member emblem pendant and indicate that he should stand beside the High Kappa, facing the audience.]
High Phi It is my privilege to install Brother __________ as High Phi. [Pause until High Phi comes forward.] __________, the ideals and aspirations of Lambda Chi Alpha embodied in our rituals are entrusted to your care. Only through a strong program of education in the meaning of the bond of Zeta Alpha Chi planned in concert with the other officers, and through the conscientious performance of the Associate Member Ceremony, Initiation Ritual, and Ritual for Conducting Business Meetings can our Fraternal Ideals be turned into the reality of accomplishment by our members. I now invest you with this collar and pendant bearing upon it the SWORD, your symbol of office. Teach wisely, guard well, exemplify clearly, and in so doing cherish your responsibility for the loving heart that is the hope of our faithful members. [Invest the High Phi with the purple collar / sword pendant and indicate that he should stand beside the High Delta, facing the audience.]
Continued
Navigation
Basic Advanced Exceptional Appendix Personal
High Delta
Officer Installation Ceremony It is my privilege to install Brother __________ as High Sigma. [Pause until High Sigma comes forward.] __________, one of the principal objectives of Lambda Chi Alpha, as a college fraternity, is to develop in each member a realization of his highest scholastic and intellectual potential. It is your responsibility to develop and implement an educational program that encourages the broadest possible cultural and intellectual experience for each member of our chapter. Familiarity with the academic performance of each member, a mature approach to the individual needs, knowledge of the support services available in this area, and strict application of the laws of the fraternity relating to academic matters, are all essential to reaching the goal of an enlightened membership. I now invest you with this collar and pendant bearing upon it the ANCHOR, your symbol of office. [Invest the High Sigma with the green collar / anchor pendant and indicate that he should stand beside the High Phi, facing the audience.]
High Epsilon It is my privilege to install Brother __________ as High Epsilon. [Pause until High Epsilon comes forward.] __________, you must play an important role in the social development and participation of the members. Entrusted to you are the responsibilities of instilling in the members a constant awareness of, respect for, and demonstration of acceptable standards of conduct, those attributes of behavior which distinguish a member of Lambda Chi Alpha as a gentleman. The good name of our Fraternity is dependent to a great extent upon the nature and conduct of its social activities. Be prudent in the performance of your duties by providing a program of social activities that is creative, diversified, and that achieves a balance of fun, growth, and service. I now invest you with this collar and pendant bearing upon it the TORCH, your symbol of office. [Invest the High Epsilon with the purple collar / torch pendant and indicate that he should stand beside the High Sigma, facing the audience.]
Continued
Navigation
Basic Advanced Exceptional Appendix Personal
High Sigma
Officer Installation Ceremony High Rho
[Pause until High Rho comes forward.] __________, you are this chapter's link to the alumni of Lambda Chi Alpha, both within and beyond this chapter. Your development of an effective program that provides events of interest to the alumni, recognizes outstanding service to the fraternity by individual alumni, and encourages alumni involvement in support of this chapter is vital for its continuity, future strength, and stability. I now invest you with this collar and pendant bearing upon it the HEART, your symbol of office. [Invest the High Rho with the gold collar / heart pendant and indicate that he should stand beside the High Epsilon, facing the audience.]
Oath My Brothers, in token of your willingness to perform the duties expected of you, you will each raise your right hand, and repeat after me the Obligation of your Office. IN THE PRESENCE OF ALMIGHTY GOD / AND BEFORE THE BROTHERS / OF LAMBDA CHI ALPHA HERE ASSEMBLED / I, [state your full name], / DO SOLEMNLY PROMISE AND SWEAR / THAT, TO THE BEST OF MY ABILITY, / I WILL AT ALL TIMES / FAITHFULLY, / HONORABLY, / AND IMPARTIALLY / PERFORM THE DUTIES OF MY OFFICE / AS PRESCRIBED BY THE LAWS OF THE FRATERNITY. / SO HELP ME GOD. You may lower your hands.
Explanation of Oath Good Brothers, consider well the significance of the Oath you have just taken, and at all times keep in mind the meaning and teachings of our Fraternity. There is no better guide in the fulfillment of your obligation than the Greek motto on our coat of arms, the ancient proverb, Calepa ta kala [Kah-‐lay'-‐pah Tah Kal-‐lah'], "Naught without Labor."
Seeking Assistance The Latin motto above our coat of arms is Per Crucem Crescens [Pare Krew'-‐kem Kress'-‐kanes], "Growth through the Cross." Let us pray. Almighty and Everlasting God, from whom cometh all wisdom, send down upon thy servants here assembled the healthful spirit of Thy grace. Oh Lord, grant unto these whom we have just vested with the power to direct and have the guardianship over this chapter for the ensuing year, great wisdom and understanding, that they may in turn be better enabled faithfully to perform the duties entrusted to them, to their everlasting honor and the advancement of Lambda Chi Alpha. Amen.
Continued
Navigation
Basic Advanced Exceptional Appendix Personal
It is my privilege to install Brother __________ as High Rho.
Officer Installation Ceremony May prudence and wisdom guide you. May the call to service and the ideals of Lambda Chi Alpha inspire you. May satisfaction in a task well done, and the manly joy of brotherly fellowship, reward you.
Closing I now proclaim each of you to be duly installed officers of __________ Zeta of Lambda Chi Alpha. Congratulations.
Navigation
Basic Advanced Exceptional Appendix Personal
Charge to the New Officers
Open ZAX Sessions 1. Candle Pass Setup: • One candle • Matches or lighter • Dark setting • List of questions to begin conversations Directions: This ZAX session is meant to induce conversation between brothers and associate members within a Zeta. It asks open ended questions for people to pass the candle around to speak about particular topics. Members usually form a circle in a room and discussion begins with anyone of the following questions: • Tell us about an experience with someone in this room which reminded you why you joined Lambda Chi Alpha • What is one thing you have never shared with the brothers? • Why are you here? • Why did you choose LXA? • What is the best part about Lambda Chi Alpha? • Describe your best memory, so far, about being involved with the Fraternity. • Do you remember how you were recruited or became interested in joining Lambda Chi Alpha? • How did you grow as a person while being part of this chapter? • Do you consider the fraternity for four years or for life? • How has your life been affected by ritual?
Navigation
Basic Advanced Exceptional Appendix Personal
xiii. Open ZAX Sessions
Theta Kappa Nu ZAX Session
Theta Kappa Nu ZAX Session
Narrator
In 1939 the 18th General Assembly of Lambda Chi Alpha and the Ninth Grand Chapter of Theta Kappa Nu both unanimously voted on a merger. Lambda Chi Alpha gained many things from Theta Kappa Nu that I’m sure we all identify with today. A few examples are the white tudor rose, the lion rampant, Vir quisque vir on the coat of arms, and of course the Associate Member ceremony which is a condensed version of the pledge and initiation degrees of the Theta Kappa Nu ritual.
One of the final wishes of the Ninth Grand Chapter was that the exemplification of the Theta Kappa Nu ritual would not be permitted after the merger which is why we’ll be conducting a staged narration of that ritual today. After the merger had been accepted the Rev. JH “Dad” Krenmyre, one of the four founding members, told the new members of Lambda Chi the following about the new Ritual they were to experience: The man who is being initiated will have much of the responsibility. If he succeeds in doing the thing that the man should do if he is to be a man, the degree will be completed and he will be declared a Brother; so that it puts a good deal of responsibility upon the initiate himself, and I like that new responsibility. It is just a little new angle that comes in ritualism that I don’t know of being in any other ritual, and I am just a little student of ritualism. It is the only Ritual of which I know that the initiate himself holds the responsibility he does…and that gives you some idea, of the unfolding possibilities of the Ritual that you will soon begin to learn. I am sure you are going to like it. The members of Theta Kappa Nu were excited to take this step into their future but they were not without their old ceremony as Lambda Chi was in need of a new member ceremony. Being the student of ritualism that he was, “Dad” Kremyre had the privilege of converting the Theta Kappa Nu ritual into the Associate Member ceremony. Hopefully we can emulate some of “Dad”’s zeal as we look back at this great ritual.
Opening the Chapter
Narrator
As with many other fraternal organizations, Theta Kappa Nu’s initiation ritual was performed as a business item in a regular meeting. Unlike other organizations, the pledge and initiation rituals were mostly done for each candidate individually. The second section of the third degree, however, was done for a group of neophytes.
The standard opening ceremony was the first order of business. This ceremony began with conversation among the Archon, the Chapter of the Guard, the Guard, and the Sentinel about securing the chapter and renewing the Covenant, but with the instruction to the Sentinel, who was stationed outside the chapter room, to “offer hospitality and assistance to any worthy friend passing.” The opening concluded with a prayer for divine guidance by the Chaplain.
Continued
Navigation
Basic Advanced Exceptional Appendix Personal
Introduction
Theta Kappa Nu ZAX Session To gain admission to the chapter room while a Chapter is in session, give the raps…four knocks, pause, one knock. When the Guard admits you, go to the center of the base of the Principal Triangle, face the Archon, and give the sign of the Everlasting Triangle at waist height, about eight inches from the body, parallel to the floor. Form the triangle with the thumbs and the first fingers, leaving a small gap between the fingers. When the Archon recognizes you with the same symbol, you may be seated. To address the Archon during the meeting, arise and give the symbol of the Everlasting Triangle; the Archon will respond with the same symbol.
The meeting then proceeded with Roll Call and reading and adopting minutes of the previous meeting. When needed, the pledging and/or initiation ceremonies were the fourth item of business.
Narrator
In the center of the room was a Central Pedestal or Altar, a triangle with 18 inch sides, base and top black, the square column silver, on each side of the supporting column was the Greek letter eta (H) for Athos or virtue. On the central pedestal was the open Bible.
Surrounding the central pedestal, in a triangle arrangement, were three small pedestals whose tops were four inches square. The one toward the Archon was adorned with the Greek letter delta (Δ) for Dioaskalia or learning and supported the Grecian lamp.
The one toward the Treasurer had the letter pi (π) for Potriotikos or belonging to fellow countrymen (Patriotism) with a small American flag. Alpha (A) was on the pedestal toward the Oracle for Adelphotas or brotherhood with a small cast of clasped hands.
Basic Advanced Exceptional Appendix Personal
Narrator
Continued
Navigation
Theta Kappa Nu ZAX Session
The stations of the three principal officers formed the equilateral Principal Triangle. In front of each chair was a pedestal the top of which was a triangle fourteen inches on each side. The Archon was in the north (with a large coat of arms on the wall behind him), the Oracle in the west (with a large banner behind him-‐ Θ at top center, Κ to left, and Ν to right, coat of arms in the center), and the Treasurer in the east (with a large banner behind him, Θ to the left, Κ below the centered coat of arms, and Ν to the right, eleven stars in an arc across the top).
The stations of three minor officers also formed an equilateral triangle but oriented with its apex in the south, which was the station of the Chaplain. The chapter Charter was positioned on the wall behind the Chaplain. The Scribe was in the east and the Captain of the Guard in the west. The Scribe had a small table, but the other stations consisted only of a chair.
The station of the Guard was at the door, with the Sentinel just outside the door. Members sat in chairs arranged around the walls.
Narrator
The “four corners of the earth” room arrangement is found within many rituals, ancient and modern. The seven ceremonial officers, including three principals seated in the four compass directions, is in keeping with the traditions of numerology. The 3+4=7 is emphasized by one officer in each direction wearing a white cape. The Sentinel is really not an officer of initiation, just the formal recognition of the need for a member to guard against the interruption of the ceremonies.
The principal officers wore black gowns, like traditional bachelor’s gowns or choir robes, with four stripes of one-‐half inch silk braid down the front center (the two inner ones gold and two outer ones white). On the left breast of the gown was a Tudor rose in white felt. These officers wore a white cape lined with crimson, and a black cap about four inches high (without brim or visor). The cap had gold, crimson and white one-‐ quarter inch silk braid on the bottom edge and a white felt Syriac numeral on the front. The Syriac numeral, which represented the number 11, looks like an equilateral triangle with a pierce of one side missing.
The Chaplain’s robe had a crimson cross on the left breast instead of the Tudor rose and his white cape had two crimson crosses, one on each breast. His cap had the Syriac numeral in crimson. The other minor officers had a white Syriac numeral on the left breast of the robe, they did not wear capes, and their caps had only gold and white braid.
The Captain of the Guard held a 7ft. long spear with a black shaft and a gold head. The Guard held a similar spear but with a silver head.
Each member wore a plain black robe with white Syriac numerals on the left breast and their caps were entirely black. While robes were prescribed, it has been discovered that the members typically wore suits to the initiation ceremonies because very few chapters could afford such large quantities of robes.
Continued
Navigation
Basic Advanced Exceptional Appendix Personal
The Officers
Theta Kappa Nu ZAX Session
THE PLEDGING CEREMONY FOR THETA KAPPA NU
Narrator
A pledge experienced the initiatory or pledge degree as soon as possible after he was pledged by the Chapter. Black curtains are hung over the door through which the candidate enters; black covers are placed on the four central and three officer pedestals. The candidate is blindfolded and has an 8ft chain passed over his shoulders and tied around his wrists. The room is in semi-‐darkness and a slow, quiet selection of music such as “The Fifth Nocturne” is played during the conferring of the obligation.
Narrator
The Archon receives word of “strangers nearby” and instructs the Captain of the Guard to investigate. Both the Sentinel and the Guard are outside the chamber with the man to be pledged. After some intervening instructions, the Captain of the Guard goes to the door carrying his spear, raps on the door, is answered, and opens the door slightly.
Captain
Who disturbs the deliberations of our Chapter?
Guard
A stranger, (the pledges name), who wishes to become a brother.
Captain
Whence came you?
Guard
From the world outside where all is discord, hatred, and contention, and where one strives alone to make a man of himself.
Captain
Why came you to our door?
Guard
Because I had observed that you were a band of brothers who by your fraternal assistance helped every man to be a man.
Captain
Are you prompted by any other motive than that of mutual assistance and brotherhood?
Guard
I am not.
[Candidate enters led by Captain] Narrator
The Archon asks for any objections from the members to the admission of the candidate, the Captain of the Guard comments on the initiation process and conducts the candidate to the base of the Principal Triangle. Conducting means that the Captain has his right arm inside the neophyte’s left arm and grasping the neophyte’s hand, palms touching. After additional questions the Captain conducts the candidate around the triangle to the Oracle’s station.
Captain
Brother Oracle, it is the desire of our Worthy Archon that you instruct (say pledge’s name) relative to the purposes of Theta Kappa Nu fraternity.
Continued
Navigation
Basic Advanced Exceptional Appendix Personal
The man being initiated wore a suit rather than some form of special ritual clothing which was unusual in the fraternal world.
Theta Kappa Nu ZAX Session Oracle
My friend, Theta Kappa Nu Fraternity is composed of a group of friends and brothers who have banded themselves together for mutual assistance and fraternal association. We believe that the first duty of every man is to make himself a man, and that he can only do this through the help of God. We take as our guide the Holy Bible, and as our exemplar Jesus of Nazareth. The objects of our Fraternity are the establishment of a brotherhood for the cultivation of the highest ideals of patriotism, the acquirement of sound learning, the observance of the moral law and the laws of God.
Worthy Archon, [turns toward Archon and makes the sign of the Everlasting Triangle] the neophyte has been instructed relative to the purposes of our Fraternity.
[Captain conducts candidate to the base of the altar] The Oath of a Neophyte Narrator
The Captain and candidate move to the altar and the Archon administers the oath. Just prior to the oath the candidate is told…
Captain
You will be asked to do nothing that will conflict with your code of morals or that you will be ashamed of in after life. With this assurance on my part, are you willing to proceed?
Narrator
What you just heard is a good faith assurance, a formal statement of the commitment of the fraternity to treat the prospective member with dignity and respect.
Archon then administers the oath where the neophyte pledges to protect the secrets he has learned or will learn, and that he will uphold the principles of Theta Kappa Nu.
Archon
Brother Captain of the Guard, our friend being bound to us by irrevocable ties you will release him from his chains and restore him to light.
Narrator
After the blindfold and chains are removed…
Archon
My friend, you have taken the obligation of a neophyte, and henceforth until you are initiated as a member of Theta Kappa Nu Fraternity you will be known by this appellation. The word means beginner.
[Captain conducts the candidate to the station of the Archon]
Continued
Navigation
Basic Advanced Exceptional Appendix Personal
The First Obligation
Theta Kappa Nu ZAX Session Narrator
The candidate then gave the Treasurer a monetary gift that went to the general fraternity’s graduate scholarship program; Lambda Chi continued this until 1959.
The Captain conducted the candidate to the apex of the triangle, Archon’s station, and heard…
Archon
My friend, you have set out upon a journey in which I trust you will be successful. Let me assure you that we stand ready at all times to assist you in your undertaking. Do not put too much dependence in your own strength. Instead, seek the advice and support of your friends, or better, go to the Source of all your strength. The Clasped Hands are the symbol of fraternity. May they ever remind you of your obligations and responsibilities. You entered blinded and bound in chains through doors draped with black curtains. Our altars are covered with black. The chains are emblematic of the chains of circumstances that prevent one from succeeding when striving to do so for selfish purposes. The darkness and black coverings signify that you are as yet in darkness and have much to learn.
[Captain conducts candidate to the station of the Guard] The Badge of a Neophyte Narrator
The Archon then presented the badge of the neophyte (or pledge button) and enumerated the requirements for initiation. THE INITIATION CEREMONY OF THETA KAPPA NU
Narrator
There should be time elapsed from pledge degree before the initiation ceremony. The entire ceremony is to be performed at once and no parts could be omitted. The First Degree: Learning
Narrator
For the first degree or degree of learning the black curtains remained over the door through which the candidate enters, and gold covers are placed on top of the black covers on the pedestals.
The Archon opens the degree…
Archon
Brothers, the North Star is visible in the heavens, calling us together to remind us that the purpose of Theta Kappa Nu, to build for better manhood, is as fixed as the position of that heavenly body. Let us therefore resume our labors.
[Captain conducts the candidate to the station of the Oracle] Narrator
After entrance knocks and dialogue between the Guard and the Captain of the Guard, the blindfolded candidate is admitted and takes another oath. His blindfold is then removed. The Captain then conducts the neophyte to the station of the Oracle.
Continued
Navigation
Basic Advanced Exceptional Appendix Personal
The Second Obligation
Theta Kappa Nu ZAX Session Brother Oracle, it is the desire of the Archon that you instruct our friend (initiate’s name).
Oracle
My friend, you will note that the Greek letter Delta, which is the initial of the Greek word Dioaskalia, adorns the pedestal marking the station of our Worthy Archon. This reminds us that learning is the foundation of all true character. Scholarship in Theta Kappa Nu is held in the highest esteem, for through it more than through anything else we expect to gain distinction on this campus. You are not only expected to make passing grades each year but also to distinguish yourself in some branch of learning.
[Captain conducts candidate to midway between the oracle and Treasurer] Narrator
The Captain and Neophyte move to the Treasurer’s station for more details on the academic obligation and then to the base of the Principal Triangle. The Archon administers the oath of the first degree in which the neophyte pledges to regard other members as brothers, he pledges not to allow harm to come to his brothers if he can stop it, and finally he promises to attain the highest possible standard of scholastics and by which bring credit to the fraternity and school.
Archon
My friend, there is indeed much yet for you to learn. The lamp has long been a symbol of learning.
Narrator
The Captain of the Guard points to the lamp with the 7ft gold-‐headed spear he carries.
Archon
By it we are reminded that we should ever strive to attain high standards of scholarship. The Greeks taught that the leaned man used his wisdom for the good of his fellows. You are to remember that that is the only object we, as members of Theta Kappa Nu, have in attaining knowledge. Go, my friend, out into the world and prove that you are indeed a man among men by the way you use the advantages that are yours. Remember that this institution of learning has been placed here by society for your use, and that you owe much to society in return for the possibilities which lie before you.
Observe that a cover of gold has been placed over the black cover which adorns the pedestals. As gold is a basic metal that has been used from time immemorial for decoration, so it is with learning. Thus my friend, [Archon moves from his station and takes the neophyte by the hand] may you form the foundation of good character upon the truths you have leaned, and may you adorn your life with the pure things of knowledge. [Release hand] It is from the decorations of one of the Grecian temples dedicated to the God of Knowledge. The Greeks taught that if at any time you use your knowledge for other than righteous purposes this piece of cloth will turn black. May you return with it as pure as it is now. Go, my friend, and may you be successful.
[Captain moves to his station; Candidate moves to the back of the room] Narrator
The Captain then conducts the neophyte to the door. The Second Degree: Patriotism
Narrator
For the second degree or degree of patriotism, black curtains remain over the door through which the candidate enters. Red covers are placed on top of the gold and black covers on the pedestals. An American flag is placed near the station of the Archon.
Continued
Navigation
Basic Advanced Exceptional Appendix Personal
Captain
Theta Kappa Nu ZAX Session
Archon administers the second degree oath. The neophyte promises to honor and respect the flag, exercise the rights of citizenship, fulfill civil responsibilities, support public institutions and defend free speech, free press and religious liberties. The Third Degree: Morality
Narrator
For the third degree or degree of morality or virtue, black curtains remain over the door through which the candidate enters. The red covers remain on top of the gold and black covers on the pedestals. The Archon begins the degree…
Archon
Brethren, the hour of mediation has come. The sun is sinking and it will soon be dark. We have labored all through the day, striving to impart knowledge to those who sought it that we might strengthen our fraternal ties, add to the activities of our school, and support our government. There has been among us a neophyte, Mr. John Doe, who has cheerfully taken our instruction and wishes to become a brother among us before it is night. Shall he be admitted, if he has kept untarnished the piece of gold cloth which he as a neophyte bears?
Narrator
The members respond with “He shall.” The blindfolded candidate enters and takes the final oath. The neophyte pledges to strive to make himself a man, to never disgrace his fraternity by immoral actions, and to defend virtue as he would his own life. He is then taught the handclasp by which the brothers of Theta Kappa Nu greet each other and the meaning of the various triangles is restated. The handshake: grasp brother’s hand with thumb resting on knuckle of middle or large finger, press lightly four times. The Final Mystery
Narrator
The second section of the third degree is conducted with the neophytes seated in the south. An altar of sacrifice is placed midway between the Archon’s station and the central altar. Three different “hopes for the future” prove to be for naught.
Captain
My brothers, is there not hope? Surely we have a great fraternity knitted together by bonds that are everlasting. If our nation can survive but for a time we can knit the influential men of our provinces into a fraternal band with us, and then we shall be acclaimed the rightful conquerors of the races.
Archon
Perhaps it may be so. Brother Captain of the Guard, prepare the sacrifice to the God of Fellowship.
Narrator
The Captain pours wood alcohol on a pan of salt and lights it, but the fire flickers and goes out.
Oracle
My brothers, there is yet hope. Have we not given learning to the world? The nations of earth have sat at the feet of our scholars. As soon as they become as cultured as we are, they will understand our conquest and all will be well.
Continued
Navigation
Basic Advanced Exceptional Appendix Personal
Again there are entrance and exit formalities, an oath, and instructive admonitions concerning patriotism. The letter pi that adorns the Treasurer’s pedestal stands for Potriotikos.
Theta Kappa Nu ZAX Session Our brother Oracle speaks sagely. From our scholars we have learned that darkness fleeth before wisdom. Brother oracle, prepare a sacrifice to the God of Knowledge. He surely will be pleased and will reward us.
Narrator
The fire again flickers and dies.
Treasurer
There is still hope, for have we not built a great brotherhood? If our nation can but live until we can teach all people the spirit of patriotism we shall conquer. Patriotism is the great welding force of all ages. Ours is yet to be a great future, let us go forth to teach men loyalty to our leader.
Archon
The wisdom of our Treasurer has ever been helpful, we will listen to his advice. Brother Treasurer, prepare the sacrifice to the God of Patriotism.
Narrator
The third fire dies. Then the Chaplain returns.
Chaplain
My brothers, I have indeed found the secret. In a cave among the ruins of an eastern city, I found an old hermit at the point of death. I ministered to him, giving up my search for happiness that I might be of service to him. In his last moments he directed me to a secret cavern and there I found these old scrolls.
Narrator
But without the secret the scrolls cannot be read. The secret: Nikomen Kata Theou. The fourth fire, alcohol added to a mixture of granulated sugar, potassium chromate and strontium nitrate, continues to burn brightly. At this point the curtains over the door are quietly changed to white and a white cover is placed over each pedestal…appearing white with red, gold and black border. A red cross is raised from behind the altar of sacrifice. The great fraternal secret of Theta Kappa Nu is…
The Central Ideal Oracle
From now henceforth and forever I demand not sacrifice but service. For centuries, we have faced the North and as we have looked toward our Archon, we have looked toward the North Star. Our purposes have been as changeless as that heavenly body, and now the wisdom of our fathers begins to dawn. We have held sacred our name “Theta Kappa Nu” but little did we understand its meaning until now: Nikomen Kata Theou or Through God we Conquer. We are asked to sacrifice only by service to our fellowmen. The League and Covenant
Narrator
The Scribe reads the League and Covenant, a statement of the ideals and principals of Theta Kappa Nu. Each newly initiated brother approaches the Scribe’s desk, signs the League and Covenant, and resumes his seat.
Narrator
Various officers then explain the meaning of the badge and coat of arms, the Scribe presents each new brother with a certificate of membership and a membership card, and the Archon closes the initiation ritual.
Continued
Navigation
Basic Advanced Exceptional Appendix Personal
Archon
Theta Kappa Nu ZAX Session The badge of Theta Kappa Nu consists of the three triangles of Adelphotas, Dioaskalia and Potriotikos (Brotherhood, Learning and Patriotism) brought together by the fourth, Athos (Virtue). Or again, the three triangles are Nikomen Kata Theou (Through God we conquer) and the center triangle reminds us God watches over us and guides our destiny. Finally the Syriac numeral 11 that adorns the badge as well as the officer robes symbolizes the 11 founding chapter.
The coat of arms begins with a chevronny of 11 in ardent (silver) and sable (black) on a shield to signify the 11 founding chapters. A red inescutcheon to symbolize loyalty and patriotism adorns the shield. Each chapter had the opportunity to adopt its own inescutcheon. The red lion rampant signifies protection and defense which the fraternity provides for the brothers. The lion rampant holds a white rose which is the emblem of honor, integrity and uprightness. All of these items together gives the coat of arms an overarching theme of “Strength, defending honor and righteousness.” Other items of business
Narrator
Following initiation, followed the rest of the chapter meeting Closing the Chapter
Narrator
After ascertaining that there was no further business, the Archon proceeded with the Closing Ceremony, first instructing the Captain of the Guard, the Guard, and the Sentinel to secure the chapter for the ceremony.
Archon
Brother Treasurer, what is our duty as we go forth into the world?
Treasurer
To live as men, to treat all men as friends, and to offer our assistance to those who are worthy.
Narrator
With two blows of the gavel, everyone arises, the response to the Archon’s question, which you should each give is “It is.”
Archon
Brothers, is it your determination so to live and act?
All
It is.
Archon
Brother Oracle, what is your last admonition?
Oracle
Brothers, as we go forth may it be in the spirit of brotherhood. Theta Kappa Nu has a mission to perform second to none. It is ours to teach by example and precept, that “a friend sticketh closer than a brother.” As we go about on our campus we should remember that we are to be friends, not only to our group, but to all who are worthy. There is always some student who needs a friendly hand clasp or a cheerful greeting; some student who will be a success if encouraged, but who, without that encouragement will fail. It is ours to offer to this student the friendship which he needs.
Continued
Navigation
Basic Advanced Exceptional Appendix Personal
Theta Kappa Nu ZAX Session
Narrator
The underlying theme of a journey or quest is indicated in the Theta Kappa Nu ritual by the changing of the covers on the seven pedestals, the three in from of the principal officers and the four in the center of the initiation chamber.
There were a number of references throughout the ritual to using the constancy of the North Star to guide the initiate on his journey…the intended symbolism was the adherence to an unchanging set of fraternal ideals.
* This workshop was adapted from:
1999 revision of an Open ZAX workshop by Chuck Peyser
The Ritual of Theta Kappa Nu Fraternity Ritual-‐ What and Why, pp. 28-‐36
High Phi manual
Navigation
Basic Advanced Exceptional Appendix Personal
Quest by the Light of the North Star
xiv.Business Meeting Business Meeting
This ceremony should be used at all business meetings of each chapter and colony and of the general fraternity. Both initiated and associate members should be present. Guests may also be present, if appropriate to the meeting. This ceremony is not used with the Associate Member Ceremony, the Initiation Ritual, the Installation of Officers when conducted as a separate ceremony, or a Memorial to a Member. The High Alpha, High Beta, and High Phi must memorize the appropriate parts. Each initiated member must memorize the creed. At meetings of the general fraternity a roll call of the chapters and colonies is substituted for the member roll call. Neat, casual dress is appropriate for most settings, with more formal attire for special occasions.
Equipment
altar or deltoid table covered with a plain white tablecloth Greek lamp and lamp oil the Bible fire extinguisher optional equipment, depending on the tone desired, includes collars and pendants for each officer with a Greek-‐letter title coat of arms painting on wall flag of the country in which the chapter is located fraternity flag Prior to the opening ceremony the High Phi should place the Greek lamp and closed Bible on the altar.
Opening Ceremony
H. Alpha [ * ] Brother High Gamma, you will make sure that all associate and initiated members are in their places. H. Gamma [calls roll, including names of any visiting brothers or alumni who may be present. The proper response of a member is either "present" or his Zeta and initiation number.] H. Alpha Brother High Beta, you will proceed with the invocation. Will everyone please rise. All [rise] H. Beta [the following or similarly appropriate invocation may be used.]
Continued
Navigation
Basic Advanced Exceptional Appendix Personal
Policy
RITUAL FOR CONDUCTING BUSINESS MEETINGS
Business Meeting
Navigation
Basic Advanced Exceptional Appendix Personal
Great and merciful God, our Heavenly Father, in reverent spirit we approach Thee to invoke Thy blessings on this assembly. Forgive our transgressions, and cleanse our hearts of all unrighteousness. Grant Thy wisdom to our leaders, and guide us in all our deliberations and transactions that the true spirit of brotherhood may be manifest in our every thought, word and deed. Bless the brothers of our Bond wherever they may be, and deepen our love for each other, and quicken our sense of duty to Thee. To Thee, our Lord and God, be all honor, praise and glory, for ever and ever. Amen. H. Alpha Brother High Phi, you will prepare the altar of Lambda Chi Alpha. H. Phi [opens the Bible to Psalm 133 and lights the Greek lamp.] H. Alpha Members of Lambda Chi Alpha, we are now gathered together for our mutual welfare, to conduct the business of our Zeta, and to further the advancement of our fraternity. We now unite in repeating once more the Creed of Lambda Chi Alpha. CREED All We believe in Lambda Chi Alpha, and its traditions, principles and ideals. The crescent is our symbol; pure, high, ever growing, and the cross is our guide; denoting service, sacrifice, and even suffering and humiliation before the world, bravely endured if need be, in following that ideal. May we have faith in Lambda Chi Alpha and passion for its welfare. May we have hope for the future of Lambda Chi Alpha and strength to fight for its teachings. May we have pure hearts that we may approach the ideal of perfect brotherly love. H. Beta We have come together through Delta Pi. H. Phi We stand together in Zeta Alpha Chi. H. Beta We strive together for attainment in the light of the three flames of the delta. H. Alpha [ * ] You may be seated. All [resume seats] Closing Ceremony [when the motion to adjourn carries] H. Alpha [ * * * ] Please rise. All [rise] H. Alpha Brother High Phi, you will prepare the altar of Lambda Chi Alpha for adjournment. H. Phi [extinguishes the Greek lamp and closes the Bible.]
Business Meeting
Continued
Navigation
Basic Advanced Exceptional Appendix Personal
H. Beta May we cultivate the precepts of Lambda Chi Alpha. May we confess our faults, and sincerely try to mend our ways. H. Phi As we go forth may it be in the spirit of Brotherhood. Lambda Chi Alpha has a mission to perform second to none. It is ours to teach by example and precept. H. Alpha May we increase in the knowledge of Lambda, its teachings, applications and possibilities. H. Alpha [ * ] and the meeting is closed.
xv. Graduation Ceremony
Graduation Ceremony
GRADUATION AND ALUMNI CEREMONY
Policy: This is an exoteric ceremony, open to members and non-‐members alike. This ceremony can be performed at the discretion of the individual chapter to best maximize its effect. All parts should be memorized. Attendees should be dressed in coat and tie.
Equipment: • Altar and cloth • Greek lamp • Bible (Open to Matthew 7: 24-‐27; The Parable of the Builder) • Associate Member Pin • Active Badge • Cross and Crescent Pyramid (Other Cross and Crescent emblem may be substituted.) • Officer Collars and Pendants for 7 Members of Performance Team • 2 Cross and Crescent Collars with Pendants ( One for Participating Brother; One for Participating Alumnus) • Fire Extinguisher
Performance Team disposition: The Performance Team is dressed in coats and ties. The atmosphere is formal, but with a feeling of warmth and brotherly affection. The Performance Team members assume their prescribed positions around the altar. The Performance Team is positioned around the altar in the following manner beginning at the lower left corner of the altar: High Phi, High Gamma, High Beta, High Alpha (at the apex), High Kappa, High Tau, and High Epsilon. An alumnus participates in this ceremony. He should wear a coat and tie and one of the Cross and Crescent collars. He takes a position a few steps behind Epsilon.
Continued
Navigation
Basic Advanced Exceptional Appendix Personal
OPEN VERSION
Graduation Ceremony The lighted Greek lamp is placed at the top of the altar. Immediately below the lamp is the open Bible with the Active Badge placed on top. To the left of the Bible is the Associate Member Pin. To the right of the Bible is the Cross and Crescent Pyramid.
OPENING Graduating Brothers are gathered outside the performance room. The Participating Brother should already be selected. Alpha Let us begin the GRADUATION AND ALUMNI CEREMONY of Lambda Chi Alpha. [Epsilon leaves the room and goes to the Graduating Brothers. He returns with the Graduating Brothers and positions them facing the Performance Team. The Participating Brother is placed at the base of the altar also facing the Performance Team. Epsilon, standing beside the Participating Brother, addresses the assembly.] Epsilon Brother High Alpha, I bring with me Graduating Brothers of _____ Zeta, who seek further knowledge in preparation for the challenges that await them beyond these halls. They are ... [Epsilon reads names of Graduating Brothers.] Alpha Brother High Beta, you will now proceed with the invocation. [High Alpha motions attendees to rise.] Beta Great and merciful God, we ask that you bless this assembly and all of our Brothers, wherever they may be. We ask a special blessing for these Graduating Brothers. As they take their leave, watch over them and guide them. Give them the strength and moral courage to face the challenges ahead, and imbue in them an ever-‐growing desire to serve and accomplish good works. Endow them with prudence, energy, and wisdom that they may lead exemplary lives for themselves, their fellow men, and for Lambda Chi Alpha. Amen. [High Alpha motions attendees to be seated.] Alpha Graduating Brothers, we regard you with great affection and respect. You come before us now as you did on the eve of your initiation into our great fraternity, seekers after enlightenment. Tonight, as you stand on the threshold of new beginnings, we pause to remember the lessons of the past and to pay tribute to your manifest contributions. Those contributions, and sacrifices, too, reveal a deep devotion to Lambda Chi Alpha and all that it stands for, while your dedication to the principles of the fraternity serve as an example to all who follow. In choosing to lead by example and precept, you have given credence to our open motto, Chalépa Tá Kalá, and shown yourselves to be, truly, men among men.
Continued
Navigation
Basic Advanced Exceptional Appendix Personal
Altar arrangement:
Graduation Ceremony
Beta By pledging your fidelity to Lambda Chi Alpha and accepting the stringent requirements of our order, you became Brothers in Zeta Alpha Chi. As loyal Brothers, your commitment to the fraternity cannot end with graduation but, rather, must continue throughout your whole lives. Know also, the fraternity needs your continuing involvement to prosper and grow stronger. Lambda Chi Alpha is a precious gift bequeathed by those who have preceded us, and it is our duty to be faithful stewards of its welfare all of our lives. Alpha In furtherance of this idea, we ask you to take upon yourselves a final oath, which will guide you in your future endeavors. All repeat after me the obligations of this ceremony.
OATH OF OBLIGATION Of my own free will/ I (state your full name )/ do promise and swear/ before God/ and before the brothers of Lambda Chi Alpha/ that I will/ for the rest of my life/ abide by these solemn pledges. I will always observe/ the commitments and obligations I have freely undertaken/ during the rituals of our Fraternity/ and I will work diligently toward the realization/ of a life built upon the principles and ideals/ of Lambda Chi Alpha. I will be ever mindful/ of the Creed of Lambda Chi Alpha/ and will at all times/ try to foster the attributes of faith, hope, and love/ and cultivate the virtues of passion, strength, and purity./ These ideals/ like the three flames of the Delta/ shall burn eternally within my heart/ and within the hearts of all who remain faithful Brothers of Lambda Chi Alpha. I will continue to be involved with Lambda Chi Alpha/ at the international and local levels/ be it in spirit/ with volunteer work/ or with other resources I possess/ so much as it may be possible/ without serious sacrifice to myself/ or to those dependent upon me./ Finally, I will strive always/ for the advancement of Lambda Chi Alpha/ that it may be forever a shining example/ to all of its undergraduate and alumni members. To which I pledge my oath and faith/ in accordance with/ the Christian teachings of our rituals/ and as a gentleman. So help me God. Alpha Brother High Gamma, please explain the significance of our altar. Gamma Upon our altar are symbols that chart your course as an undergraduate member of Lambda Chi Alpha. In the lower left portion of the altar rests the Associate Member Pin; it signifies your status when you first arrived, undeveloped, but with enormous potential, needing only proper instruction and
Continued
Navigation
Basic Advanced Exceptional Appendix Personal
Kappa During your initiation, you learned of the importance of Delta Pi, and through knowledge of this symbol, you were allowed access to the deepest secrets and the supreme mysteries of Lambda Chi Alpha. The lessons, which you were privileged to learn from our rituals, have shaped and guided your development as undergraduate members of the fraternity. Now your graduation and your transition from undergraduates to alumni signal a departure from the nurturing environment of college into a brave, new world of opportunity and uncertainty. Into that world, you must carry the teachings of our fraternity, remembering always that your commitments and obligations to Lambda Chi Alpha remain constant.
Graduation Ceremony
PREAMBLE TO THE TEACHINGS Kappa Taken together, our rituals form the moral and ethical foundation of our fraternity. They serve to define us and to teach, inspire, and direct us in leading virtuous and useful lives. In turn, they demand that we undertake specific promises and obligations to ourselves, our brothers, and to our fraternity. Observance of the lessons taught in our rituals prepares us to confront the vicissitudes of daily life and the vagaries of an ever-‐changing world. And while the world in which we must live is characterized by impermanence and uncertainty, the teachings of Lambda Chi Alpha remain timeless and immutable. Alpha Lambda Chi Alpha teaches courage, that we shall not shrink in the face of danger, or subordinate duty to expediency. Beta It teaches humility, that we shall not succumb to hubris. Kappa It teaches dignity, that we shall not lose respect for ourselves, our families, or our training. Gamma It teaches self-‐control, that we may set proper bounds upon our desires. Tau It teaches us that we are ground into which a divine capacity for service has been implanted, and that it is our duty to cultivate that capacity for the good of mankind. Phi It admonishes us that the art of living is not an easy one, and that rewards, if they have any value, come only to the deserving. Epsilon It reminds us that no one is perfect, that error is inevitable, and that a mantle of charity should cover our condemnation of a brother’s faults. Phi It calls us to productive labor, that we may advance human happiness by our active participation in the work of the world. Epsilon It shows us that life is brief, and our opportunities limited; that the sands of our existence slip by in a few moments of eternal time. Gamma It unfolds to us the mystery of bodily death, which is transcended by a view of life in which death is but an incident.
Continued
Navigation
Basic Advanced Exceptional Appendix Personal
guidance. At the apex of the altar is the Greek lamp, the symbol of learning. It represents the academic education you have received at this institution. Below the lamp are the open Bible and the Active Badge. Together they symbolize the moral instructions of our rituals embodied in the knowledge of Lambda, its teachings, applications, and possibilities. In the lower right corner of the altar is the Cross and Crescent emblem. It symbolizes the realization of your full potential, through learning and adherence to high principles, as a Brother, and as a man.
Graduation Ceremony
Beta It reminds us that we are judged by our actions, and that misconduct cannot be concealed forever. Kappa It displays life as perpetual change, in which worthy motives only are eternal. Alpha And finally, it gives to us a light to be guarded in the secret places of the heart. To every brother comes this message: it is his duty to ponder upon it, to know it, and to carry it into his life. Brother High Gamma, pray, expound for us the meaning of these lessons. Gamma Behold, everyone who embraces these lessons and puts them into practice is like a wise man who built his house upon the rock. The rains came down, the streams rose, and the winds blew and beat against that house; yet it did not fall because it had its foundation on the rock. But, everyone who ignores these lessons and does not put them into practice is like a foolish man who built his house upon the sand. And the rains came down, the streams rose, and the winds blew and beat against that house; [pause] and it fell with a great crash. Alpha Good Brothers, may you cherish the lessons you have learned in Lambda Chi Alpha and use them to build strong foundations for your future lives, knowing, that by doing so, you remain true Brothers of Zeta Alpha Chi.
INVESTITURE [Performed by the Participating Alumnus. Alumnus wears one of the Cross and Crescent collars and carries the other. He moves from his position behind Epsilon to the apex of the altar, where he turns and faces the graduating brothers.] Alumnus To denote your passage to alumnus status, I place about your neck a white collar trimmed in gold. Suspended from the collar is a pendant bearing the Cross and Crescent emblem. The white collar represents the purity of brotherly love, while the gold trim symbolizes our steadfast loyalty to Lambda Chi Alpha. In the center of the pendant is the Cross and Crescent emblem, the symbol of this ceremony. It serves to remind us that high ideals are nothing more than hollow platitudes if not transformed into good works. For John Mason, the Cross and Crescent was one of our most important symbols, as evidenced by his placement of it at the very apex of our coat-‐of arms and directly beneath the open motto, Per Crucem Crescens. Let the Cross and Crescent symbol be a constant source of inspiration, leading you, in Mason’s words, to “turn ideals into action.” [Alumnus walks to Participating Brother and places the collar about his neck. Alumnus steps back from Participating Brother, faces audience, and continues.]
Continued
Navigation
Basic Advanced Exceptional Appendix Personal
Tau It opens to our view the pages of holy writ, and holds up the virtues therein contained for our practice.
Graduation Ceremony
[Alumnus shakes hand of Participating Brother then moves to stand beside him and face Performance Team.]
CONCLUSION Alpha The symbol of the Graduation and Alumni Ceremony is the Cross and Crescent. May it, and John Mason’s challenge to “turn ideals into actions, ”always inspire you to ever greater accomplishments and serve as a constant reminder that Lambda Chi Alpha is a life-‐long commitment. From all of your brothers, undergraduates and alumni, we extend to you the right hand of ever-‐lasting brotherhood and our sincere best wishes for the future. To those alumni present, we express our heartfelt thanks for your continuing involvement and support of Lambda Chi Alpha. [Performance Team, led by High Alpha, files by Graduating Brothers and shakes hands. Each Graduating Brother is given a Cross and Crescent lapel badge and the Cross and Crescent Pyramid at the conclusion of the ceremony.]
Continued
Navigation
Basic Advanced Exceptional Appendix Personal
Alumnus As you venture forth, you must continue implementing the teachings of Lambda Chi Alpha in your daily lives.....in the hours, days, weeks, and years ahead.....in thought, in word, and in deed. Congratulations on your graduation and welcome to your new roles as alumni brothers of Lambda Chi Alpha.
High Phi Officer Meeting High Phi Officer Meeting o
Items to bring to the ELC § All Initiation Ritual Books for review by the ELC § The High Phi TOGA *Ritual Equipment Inventory Performed by Educational Leadership Consultant during the Visit o High Phi Contact Information: • Name: ___________________________ • Cell Number: ___________________________ • Email Address: ___________________________ o Equipment Condition: (Excellent) (Average) (Good) o All pieces and books safely and appropriately stored and maintained: Yes No o Is the Initiation Ritual presented fully and in conjunction with the High Phi Manual: Yes No o Are all parts memorized: Yes No o Are informal sessions conducted with appropriate procedure and respect: Yes No o Do all brothers participate or attend the Initiation Ritual: Yes No o Does a ZAX session occur within two weeks of the Initiation Ritual: Yes No o Associate Member Ceremony: § Are all five officer roles memorized: Yes No § Is the Ceremony fully conducted in accordance with the Open Rituals Document: Yes No o Ritual for Conducting Business Meetings: § Are all four officer roles memorized: Yes No § Is the Ceremony fully conducted in accordance with the Open Rituals Documents: Yes No o Ceremony for Graduating Seniors: § Open Version: Yes No • Are all eight officer roles memorized: Yes No • Is the Ceremony fully conducted in accordance with the Open Rituals Documents: Yes No § Closed Version: • Are all officer roles memorized: Yes No • Is the Ceremony fully conducted in accordance with the Graduating Senior Ritual: Yes No o Please Describe the Pre-‐Initiation Ritual Schedule (Please Change Days of the Week if necessary):
Continued
Navigation
Basic Advanced Exceptional Appendix Personal
xvi. High Phi Officer Meeting
High Phi Officer Meeting Sunday (If Applicable): ___________________________________________________________________________ ___________________________________________________________________________ § Monday: ___________________________________________________________________________ ___________________________________________________________________________ § Tuesday: ___________________________________________________________________________ ___________________________________________________________________________ § Wednesday: ___________________________________________________________________________ ___________________________________________________________________________ § Thursday: ___________________________________________________________________________ ___________________________________________________________________________ § Friday: ___________________________________________________________________________ ___________________________________________________________________________ § Saturday: ___________________________________________________________________________ ___________________________________________________________________________ Do Big Brothers attend all Pre-‐Initiation Events? Yes No Are follow-‐up sessions performed by Big Brothers each week? Yes No §
Basic Level Officer Tasks Prepare and complete officer transition
YES
NO
Complete proposed officer budget and calendar
YES
NO
Prepare for and participate in High Zeta retreat
YES
NO
YES
NO
Inventory all Ritual Equipment and other chapter ceremonial equipment
YES
NO
Maintain and replace as necessary all ritual equipment for the chapter
YES
NO
Store all Initiation equipment in a secure and appropriate location
YES
NO
Perform and memorize the Associate Member Ceremony
YES
NO
Perform a debrief of the Associate Member Ceremony
YES
NO
Ensure the High Gamma submitted a request for Initiation
YES
NO
YES
NO
Choose participants for the Initiation Ritual for the Initiation Ritual
Perform the Initiation Ritual as authorized by the Office of Administration
Hold a ZAX session with the newly initiated members following the Initiation Ritual
Continued
Navigation
YES
NO
Basic Advanced Exceptional Appendix Personal
o o Tasks
High Phi Officer Meeting Perform the Officer Installation Ceremony
YES
NO
Prepare and Present in the Call to Brotherhood program
YES
NO
Prepare for and meet with the ELC during his visit
YES
NO
Transition the incoming officer
YES
NO
Perform a debrief of the Associate Member Ceremony
YES
NO
Basic Advanced Exceptional Appendix Personal
Advanced Level Officer Tasks Work with the High Kappa to develop a Pre-‐Initiation week in alignment with the CTBP YES
NO
Hold a reflection and make-‐meaning session following each pre-‐initiation event YES
NO
Arrange for the appropriate debriefs during the Initiation Ritual
YES
NO
Hold regular ZAX sessions with the brotherhood
YES
NO
Perform the ritual for conducting business meetings
YES
NO
YES
NO
YES
NO
Perform the graduating senior ceremony for graduating members Exceptional Level Officer Tasks Arrange for the Ritual Narration during the Initiation Ritual
Pre-‐Initiation: (9 – Excellent) (8 – Above Average) (6-‐7 – Average) (4-‐5 – Below Average) (0-‐3 – Poor) •
*Does the chapter have a Pre-‐Initiation schedule that lasts less than one week? YES
NO
•
Was the schedule given to the ELC during the visit?
YES
NO
•
*Do the events coincide with the Pre-‐Initiation Guide?
YES
NO
•
*Does the chapter provide for the safety and respect of all Associate Members? YES
NO
•
Do Associate Members reflect and make meaning after Pre-‐initiation events? YES
NO
•
Do the Associate Members share after each event?
YES
NO
•
Are Big Brothers present at all experiential learning sessions?
YES
NO
•
Are Big Brothers present at all Pre-‐Initiation sessions?
YES
NO
•
Do Big Brothers conduct individual follow up sessions with Associate Members? YES
NO
Officer Goals for the Semester _____________________________________________________________________________________ _____________________________________________________________________________________ __________________________________________________________________________________
Navigation
Personal Notes
Navigation
Basic Advanced Exceptional Appendix Personal
The area below is for you to write notes that will help you fulfill your role as an officer of your Zeta.
Officer Transition
Frequency
Officer Tasks
Use the text box below for additional notes about your personal officer tasks
Navigation
Basic Advanced Exceptional Appendix Personal
The table below allows you to create your own Officer Tasks, the frequency with which you should complete the tasks, and a check box to use once you completed the task. When the next brother takes over your position you can review this section as part of your officer transition.
Questions/Concerns If you have any questions about the specific content in this document, please contact:
[email protected]. If you are experiencing any technical difficulties with this document, please contact:
[email protected].
Visit Lambda Chi’s Web Platforms Website: lambdachi.org Member Portal: mylca.lambdachi.org Officer Portal: op.lambdachi.org
Stay Connected on Social Media Like us on Facebook at: facebook.com/lambdachi Follow us on Twitter: @LambdaChiAlpha
a lifetime of true brotherhood