sirpaulthesmall

I'm organizing the contingent for Catawba Lodge, and it's my impression that it's going to be mostly training and activities. None of the materials from national mention competition at all. Personally, I'm glad there's an AIA event that doesn't focus on the competitive nature of ceremony teams. As a long time ceremonialist myself, I see the appeal of competition, but have always felt that the real purpose of any ceremony competition or evaluation is to learn from other teams, and make the experience better for your candidates back home.

Willhi, are you in section SR-5?!

Scouts and scouters are not elected to the OA for what they have done, but for what they are expected to do. Training and such should not, in my opinion, have much bearing on who is nominated. The OA, like most scouting organizations, is mostly focused on the youth. Therefore, the number of adults is limited. Now, that is not to say that I don't think the rules can and sometimes should be bent. If someone is worthy, they should get in. The eligibility requirements seek to weed out those who are not worthy, and that is their only function. Ponder this.

Congratulations to your son! He has been selected to undergo a rewarding inwward journey. His experiences in the order will help him to be a better leader in his troop, and a more active servant to his community. The Order of the Arrow is a Brotherhood of Cheerful Service. The oppertunities for fun and fellowship are so many I could not possibly list them all. It is truly an amazing organization.