The Elangomat Handbook

Wa-La-Moot-Kin Lodge #336

Written By Stephen Ash & Ben Johnson

The Elangomat Handbook

Wa-La-Moot-Kin Lodge #336

Table of Contents

Overview (Page 1)
How should I use this handbook? (Page 1)
What is the Extended Elangomat program? (Page 2)
The Ten Induction Principles (Page 2)
Tips on Elangomatting (Page 2)
What do I do as an Elangomat? (Page 3)
What is an Honor Elangomat? (Page 6)
The Elangomat Discussion (Page 7)
How should I conduct my discussions? (Page 8)
Questioning Techniques (Page 10)
What do I cover during discussions? (Page 13)
Whats what at Camp Wallowa? (Page 14)

Overview
One of the greatest services a lodge can have is that of an Elangomat. In the language of the
Lenni Lenape, "Elangomat" means "friend." Webster's dictionary defines "friend" as:
1. a person whom one knows well and is fond of; close acquaintance.
2. a person on the same side in a struggle; ally.
3. a supporter or sympathizer.
Everything involved in the Ordeal will be new to the candidates, so they definitely need someone
who will have the qualities listed above. You, as an Elangomat, must have these qualities.
Those who have been chosen as an Elangomat must be ready for the challenge. They must
thrive in the ideals and principles of the Order of the Arrow. Brotherhood, Cheerfulness, and
Service are the only reasons why the Elangomat does his job. Many Arrowmen would never go
through the Ordeal for a second time. An Elangomat is different from others, however, because
he sees the visions of men like Lord Baden-Powell and Dr. E. Urner Goodman. An Elangomat
strives to show these visions to those who undertake the Ordeal.

How should I use this Handbook?

This handbook is specifically designed for the benefit of, you, the Elangomat. This book is based
on the Extended Elangomat program, and can be used in the implementation of this program.
If you are an Elangomat, or are about to become one, this handbook is just right for you.
Regardless of whether you are an experienced Elangomat or a novice, you can, and will, benefit
from this book. When used in conjunction with the Order of the Arrow Handbook, you will be
prepared for your upcoming Ordeal.
This book is basically a reference book for all Elangomats. You should become familiar with it; it
is your friend. You can use it to quickly look up information that you need, but do not read from
this book word for word. You need to develop your own style as an Elangomat. Your clan needs
to know some of the information in here, but do not act as a mirror and reflect the material from
the book to your clan. However, when you need to give particular information to your clan, do not
stray off the subject. You can get the ideas across while making it fun.

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What is the Extended Elangomat program?

The Extended Elangomat program is very similar to the regular Elangomat program. (For all
Elangomats reading this, you did not get pulled into something you know nothing about.) In fact,
the Extended Elangomat is the exact same as the normal Elangomat program except for one
detail.
Unlike the normal Elangomat program, the Extended Elangomat does not end his job at his clan's
completion of the Ordeal. Rather, the Elangomat continues to keep in touch with his clan and
helps them obtain their Brotherhood membership in the lodge. This increases active participation
in the lodge, as the Elangomat encourages his clan to participate in lodge events.

The Ten Induction Principles

1.
2.

3.
4.
5.

6.

7.
8.
9.
10.

PURPOSE: The Purpose of the Induction is to encourage and inspire each candidate to
develop firm individual dedication to the ideals of Brotherhood, Cheerfulness, and Service.
ELIGIBILITY: The right to earn Ordeal and Brotherhood membership is given only by the
scouts of a candidate's home unit during an authorized Order of the Arrow unit election.
Only the candidate himself can overrule their decision.
CANDIDATE'S C OMPLIANCE: The candidate has the continuous choice of meeting the tests of
the Ordeal to the best of his ability or of withdrawing.
MEMBERS' C OMPLIANCE: All members participating in the induction must respect and comply
with the tests of the Ordeal, to the extent allowed by their responsibilities.
DISCRETION: In cases where strict application of the tests and requirements of the Induction
is not possible, the lodge may choose an alternative that will best preserve the spirit of the
Induction and the quality of the candidates' experience.
IMPORTANCE OF THE INDIVIDUAL: All actions and procedures must recognize the worth,
dignity, and separate identity of the individual and his present or potential ability to govern
himself.
GENEROSITY: The attitude of members toward the candidate must be one of acceptance,
respect, understanding, friendly encouragement, sincerity, support, and trust.
FOCUS: Everything in the lodge-created environment must direct the candidate to the
central meaning of the induction, and not distract him from it.
SYMBOLIC P ROGRESSION: No symbol or symbolic procedure should be mentioned or used
unless it is called for in the authorized ceremonies.
ACTIVE MEMBERSHIP: Lodge policy must recognize that one who understands the Obligation
of the Order and is striving to fulfill it is an active member, his dedication in itself
accomplishes the major service of the lodge.

Tips on Elangomatting
There are several things to remember while doing your job as an Elangomat. Keep these in mind
when you read through this handbook and while you are at the Ordeal

You are going through the Ordeal

Never mind that you have a sash on while the rest of your clan does not. You have a vow of
silence to keep. You have a day of arduous labor ahead. You will eat scant food to prove your
powers of self-denial.

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Remember to lead by example

Leadership by example is probably the best kind of leadership. It even works better for
Elangomats because of the vow of silence. You may talk in extremely necessary cases, but
remember, your clan will follow your example.

Everything is new for the candidates

Each candidate will undoubtedly have some degree of fear or anxiety about the Ordeal. It is
virtually certain that they have heard rumors as to what may happen to them. As an Elangomat, it
is your responsibility to comfort the candidates and put them at ease.

Proper Prior Planning Prevents Pitifully Poor Performance

Those Elangomats that have prepared themselves will have a much more fun and much easier
time than those that do not.

Be aware of the Ten Induction Principles during the Ordeal

It is crucial that the Elangomat be conscious of these principles throughout the entire Ordeal.
Symbolic progression, especially, must be observed.

What do I do as an Elangomat?
As an Elangomat, you have some specific responsibilities. The following items are your jobs.
1. TRAINING
Participate in the Elangomat training session prior to the Ordeal. Get to know this handbook, and
know the appropriate sections of the Order of the Arrow Handbook. Remember, your job as an
Elangomat is much easier if you are prepared.
2. INTRODUCE Y OURSELF
Be sure to call each clan member well before the weekend. Introduce yourself and answer any
questions that they might have. Make sure that each can attend the Ordeal and each has a ride.
You are their friend, and it is pertinent they need to think of you as one by the end of the
conversation. (See "What do I cover during discussions?" for some guidelines.) The only
equipment that they should need would be the following: a sleeping bag, ground cloth, work
clothes, full uniform, sleeping clothes, clothes for Sunday, and anything else included in the
information sheet. They DO NOT NEED and SHOULD NOT BRING tents, any kind of radios and
televisions, and food.
3. BE AT REGISTRATION
Make sure that you arrive at the weekend either before the candidates. It is imperative that you
are punctual. Greet each candidate personally while in full uniform with your sash on. (Later there
should be a ceremony in which your sash is turned inside out, but have the arrow showing for
now.) When the entire clan has arrived, take them to deposit the equipment that they will not
need for the evening. The Elangomat Sakima will tell you where the equipment storage place is.
At this point, hold "Discussion #1." (See "What do I cover during discussions?") After you finish
the discussion, tell the Elangomat Sakima that you are finished, and he will inform you of where

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to wait for the Elangomat Induction Ceremony. After this, you will be told where to gather your
clan for the pre-Ordeal ceremony.
4. THE P RE-O RDEAL
Assemble your clan as told for the Pre-Ordeal ceremony. At a given time, the Torch Bearer will
come to you and you will exchange in this conversation:
Torch Bearer:
"I seek those who are prepare to continue the journey of the Ordeal."
Each Elangomat (in turn):
"The members of the ------- clan, here assembled, are prepared to continue the journey."
Each Elangomat will follow the Torch Bearer in turn with his own equipment. Make sure your clan
follows you. You will participate in all aspects of the ceremonies with your clan.
5. THE NIGHT ALONE
"A Night Alone Under the Stars to Prove Your Self-Reliance."
Following the Pre-Ordeal, Kitchkinet will lead the clans to where they will sleep. When Kitchkinet
asks you for the name of your clan, stop and tell him. He will then say:
"The Elangomat of the ------ clan chooses to continue the Ordeal at this location."
Remain in place until the other clans are out of sight. When they are gone, take each candidate
silently to his sleeping place and say:
"Sleep here in peace, friend. If you need me I'll be near."
Point out where you will be sleeping. Space each candidate evenly. The Elangomat must know
where each clan member is at all times. Then go to your own resting-place at the front of the clan.
Drape your sash inside out conspicuously over a tree branch regardless of the weather. It would
be a good idea to remain awake for about an hour to be sure that all your clan members are
settled.
6. THE MORNING OF THE O RDEAL
"Twenty-Four Hours of Scant Food to Prove Your Powers of Self- Denial."
Kitchkinet will awaken Elangomats at the designated time. He should bring breakfast for the clan
and leave it with you. Awaken each clan member, and tell them, silently, to quickly collect their
equipment, change into work clothes, and come to your sleeping site. After you have finished this,
return to your site and collect your equipment and change.
Remember, you share the vow of silence with the candidates. Only talk when it is absolutely
necessary.

7. W ORK P ROJECTS

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"A Day of Arduous Labor to Prove Your Willingness to Serve Others."

You will be assigned a work project, and it is likely that there will be Brothers assigned to your
task also. Most times, Brothers and candidates will not work together, but it may be necessary. In
this case, the Brothers must respect the fourth Principle of the Induction. This means no talking,
and no bothering the candidates. They should respect this, and if they do not, either talk to them
about it, or talk to a lodge officer, the Ordeal Master, or the Elangomat committee advisor.
All during the day, you will work alongside the candidates in your clan. Lead by example as often
as you can, rather than giving orders. You can give necessary directions, but avoid chatting with
either candidates or Brothers. You are the example that the candidates follow. If necessary, you
may counsel a candidate or Brother privately by removing yourself and that individual from the
group and temporarily overriding the vow of silence.
Explain to the candidates the work that needs to be done. Explain how to do it by example, if
possible, and explain its value. Do not tell them how to do it, nor should you say, "We will do it."
Just explain that it is a job that needs to be done, and start working. The concept of allowing the
candidates the opportunity to choose to serve is realistic and perhaps essential in regard to the
structure of our Order. Give the candidates every opportunity to offer their assistance.
***IMPORTANT***
A sincere smile that says "Thank you" will be the reward for any assistance. This will teach
candidates more about offering unselfish service than many hours of lectures, and this smile may
also be more than they will receive in similar situations at home or in their adult life.
During the work projects, you should allow your clan to rest when necessary in relation to the
work being performed, their ages and physical conditions, and the weather. Allow candidates to
drink as much water as they choose, and let them take necessary latrine breaks.
Kitchkinet and the kitchen crew will probably deliver lunch. If any Brothers are working with the
clan, they will return to the dining hall for lunch.
8. THE EVENING OF THE O RDEAL
You will be told when to return to the dining hall. When that time comes, make sure you have had
the clan finish up what they were doing and clean up. When you return to the dining hall, have
your clan gather their equipment that they had stored before the Pre-Ordeal and bring it to the
clan's campsite. (The Ordeal Master will tell you which site to go to.) Once there, allow the clan to
clean up and dress in full uniform. After you have finished, inform the Ordeal Master that you are
ready. During some Ordeals, a snack may be provided for the candidates at this time. After you
have finished your discussion, inform the Ordeal Master that you are ready. Please do not take all
day. It is very important that things are completed as soon as possible.
9. DINNER
The candidates still have their vow of silence to keep. They should have had time to cleanup
already and be in their full class A uniform. The lodge will step back and let the candidates enter
first. Everyone should respect the vow of silence by not talking during the meal.

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10. THE O RDEAL CEREMONY

When everything is ready, you will receive enough sashes for your clan members. You will be told
where to go and wait. At the designated time the Torch Bearer will lead you to the ceremonial
grounds to await Kitchkinet. You will walk hand on shoulder, you will be bound, and you will
participate in every aspect of the ceremony. You are expected to show, by example, the
solemnity of the ceremony.
The sashes should be draped over your right shoulder before the ceremony. Near the end, the
candidates will receive their sashes. At this time, one of the Indians will take the sashes. He will
then move in front of each candidate and drape a sash over their shoulder. You should follow him
behind the candidates and button the sash on each person.
11. THE C RACKER BARREL
This is the new Brothers' first opportunity to "mingle" with the other Brothers. Encourage them to
sit with you, your friends, any Brothers they know, and other new Brothers. Remember,
"Elangomat" means "friend." Hold "Discussion #2."
During the cracker barrel, make sure your clan members are having a good time and get to meet
both new and experience Brothers.
11. THE DEVELOPMENT PERIOD
You have not finished your duties as your Brothers' friend. This is the difference in the Extended
Elangomat program. During the next year, make sure that you keep in touch with all of your clan
members. Inform them of lodge and chapter events if they are not aware of them. See if they can
get to these events. Encourage them to become active within their lodge and chapter. Make sure
they know who the lodge and chapter officers are and their phone numbers. Answer any of their
questions, or find the answer to them. You are their friend and they are yours.
As soon as possible after the Ordeal, write a report (it could be as short as a paragraph) on the
Ordeal and Elangomat programs. Include what you liked and did not like. Also include what could
be improved and how. Remember, it is your ideas that build next year's Elangomat program.
Send this report to the Elangomat Chairman.
The development period is basically to prepare the Ordeal members for Brotherhood
membership. In the months after the Ordeal, you should, therefore, help your clan members
memorize what they need to know according to the requirements. It is very important that you
help your clan members understand the Order of the Arrow and Brotherhood membership. In the
"What do I cover during discussions?" section, there is a list of information that you should get
across. You should also want to help your clan members write their Brotherhood letter, but do not
write it for them. You may want to meet as a clan once or twice during this period to help them
understand what they are doing for their Brotherhood membership. You can even make this a fun
weekend. Of course, none of that is required, just as long as the information gets across well and
you are still being viewed as the friend.
Write another report about one year later on Post-Ordeal activities and how to best keep Brothers
active. Send it to the current Elangomat Chairman.
How is an Elangomat Honored?
After successfully completing the Ordeal, The Elangomats will be awarded with the bottom part of
the current lodge flap. The patch appropriately depicts the Ordeal ceremony.

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The Elangomat Discussion

The Elangomat discussions are an integral part of the Elangomat program. There are many
purposes to these discussions, and one of them is to assist the Elangomat in becoming a true
friend of the clan. The discussions help the Elangomat develop a connection between the clan
and himself through sharing experiences and concerns informally. The candidate is encouraged
to follow his Elangomat's directions and advice, he should do so out of the friendship he has, not
out of fear. These discussions help build up that friendship.
As stated before, everything is new to the candidates. Another purpose of the discussions it help
them relax and rid them of their fears.
The last purpose of the discussions is to communicate information about the OA and the Ordeal.
By the end of the weekend, the new Brothers should not only understand what happened and
why, but should also have begun to plan some of their personal applications for our principles.
Candidates should be better prepared for the each part of Ordeal that follows each discussion
session if they participate actively. They will be ready for the tests and experiences that await
them. In addition, they should gain an understanding of the parts of the Ordeal. They should also
begin to understand the structure, functions, and purposes of the Order. Though they are started
on the short term, developing clan unity and fostering a sense of Brotherhood are continued as
long-term goals.
It is important that the Elangomat understand that the discussions are only one part of their
participation in the candidate's induction.
Leading an effective discussion session means more than simply talking with (or at) the
candidates. It is imperative that the Elangomat prepare for these discussions prior to the
weekend. Though conducting these discussion may be difficult, they may also be the most
rewarding for both the Elangomat and the clan.
Remember that each discussion is not a strict set of rules. These discussions are designed so
that each Elangomat can develop a personal style of leadership. Still, however, the content of the
discussion should be the same for each clan, so there are a few guidelines you should follow.
1. KNOW THE GENERAL G OALS OF DISCUSSION SESSIONS
Before each session, be sure that you review and understand the purposes of the discussions.
This should be the basis for all of your discussions. You should make sure that your discussion
helps to meet these goals, for if it does not, it cannot be successful.
2. KNOW THE G OALS OF THE SESSION
Each session, in addition to the goals of the discussion program, will have its own specific goals.
It is important that whatever they are, they are getting across. Write out your goals for each
session so that you can refer back to them as you continue your planning.
3. KNOW THE MATERIAL FOR EACH SESSION
Regardless of how well you lead a discussion, you cannot communicate information to the
candidates if you do not know it yourself. There are some things that you cannot say directly
because of symbolic progression, but you can point the candidate in the right direction so he can
discover it himself. You should read over the Spirit of the Arrow booklets before the Ordeal. Try to
convey what they say to your clan, but do not use the booklets directly.

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4. PREPARE THE QUESTIONS

Review your goals and remember you are leading a discussion, not a lecture. You may have to
clarify some answers, but the purpose of this is to let the clan share their knowledge. Remember
that some questions you should ask are not required to be answered in the group or directly to
you. Always prepare more questions than you think you will need, and be ready to not use them.
5. LEAD THE DISCUSSIONS
If you are prepared, leading the discussions will not be terribly difficult. As a general guideline,
each session should be from 15-20 minutes. The preparations could take up to an hour. You can
structure your discussion based on the next section, but develop it to fit your personal style.

How should I conduct my discussions?

1. BEFORE YOU BEGIN
Be sure to hold a discussion with the entire clan present. Find a location where there will be a
minimal amount of interruptions. It is possible that the Ordeal Chairman, the Ordeal Master, or
their witatschimoisins (check the back of the OA Handbook!) may attend your discussions. If this
is the case, RELAX! It is not to make you feel nervous, because they will only do this if they would
like to see how well the Elangomat Discussions work. Other Brothers may attend, but it is at your
discretion, and you can ask them to leave if you want.
You may not be as comfortable as you would like (you will come closer if you are fully prepared!),
but the candidates are probably uncomfortable also. Try to develop a sense of unity and
Brotherhood among the clan members and things will get better. The best Elangomats anticipate
and provide for the needs of their clan, so develop your discussion accordingly.
2. ESTABLISH A FRIENDLY RAPPORT
As an Elangomat, you are the candidates friend. Therefore, it is imperative that a friendly
rapport be established. You must try to not appear "above" them, for when this happens, they no
longer see you as a friend.
In order to establish a rapport, you should try to ease their tensions and fears. Ask them about
their welfare in a sincere way, and if they need something that you can provide, get it! They will
be hungry, very tired, hungry, possibly wet, hungry, anxious, and hungry. Do not let the
candidates lie down, because, no matter how interesting you are, someone will fall asleep.
Another good idea for establishing a rapport would be to lay some guidelines. You may want to
say something along the lines of "There are no wrong or dumb answers," or "Let us behave in a
Scoutly manner, with no derogatory remarks. This is a safe haven." You will also want to be sure
that everyone has a chance to express their feelings (encourage this), and also have the chance
to stay silent. However, be careful that you do not ruin the atmosphere that the ceremonies team
has worked to establish.
3. OUTLINE YOUR TALK
Briefly share with the candidates an overview of the session. Let them hear some of your goals
and what they can expect.
4. THE B ODY OF YOUR DISCUSSION

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This is the main part of your time together. You should be sharing factual knowledge,
encouraging each candidate to sharing their feelings, challenging your clan according to Principle
Three, and providing "food for thought" as their vow of silence turns their thoughts inward.
Keep It Simple.
Give your clan an open and positive atmosphere in which they can share their feelings about
what they are going through. When they discover that others frequently have the same reactions
that they do, Brotherhood and friendship are built and strengthened. You may share your
experiences, but they are helpful only if you keep them brief and relevant. Candidates may
answer honestly or dishonestly, but never "wrong." Try to help your clan be honest with
themselves, not for them to agree with each other or you.
It makes much sense, therefore, to ask questions that help the candidates discover their own
attitudes. Some scouts who come here for the Ordeal may never have been challenged to live a
lifestyle consistent with the Scout Oath and Law. It is even possible that they do not know what
they mean! However, you must not interpret these principles for them. They will discover these in
time, as long as you provide the proper atmosphere and encouragement.
As your discussion ends, it would be a good idea to look back on real life situations. Rhetorical
questions about their daily life will help the candidates. An important concept is "A Scout is
Loyal." The clan members should think about what loyalty means. However, it may be a better
idea to ask them how they can show loyalty in their everyday life. Since the vow of silence is
designed to turn thoughts inward, they will have time to think about these kinds of subjects.
Hopefully, the knowledge gained this way will be put into practice, making it more valuable than
factual knowledge.

5. ANSWERING Q UESTIONS
Always give your clan the opportunity to ask questions, but do not violate the principle of symbolic
progression. Do not hesitate to say, "That's a good question! If you listen at the ceremony tonight,
Kitchkinet (or Meteu, etc.) will answer it for you. Then we can talk about it some more before you
leave." You may also put off a question until a later session, if you know you will cover the
question then (but do not forget it). If someone asks you a question for which you have no clue
what the answer is, or you are not completely sure, DO NOT MAKE THINGS UP!!! Be honest,
and tell them that you do not know. Then find out the answer, if possible, and tell them.
6. OUTLINE THE SCHEDULE
Inform the candidates of what will be happening in the near future. In the eyes of the candidates,
the period from one discussion to the other is long enough. However, do not break the principle of
symbolic progression.
7. REMIND THEM OF W HAT YOU W ANT TO ACCOMPLISH
By the end of the session, make sure that the candidates have a clear understanding of what they
have heard and what they should expect of themselves. Do not forget to re-institute the vow of
silence when finished.
After the session, as soon as possible, review what you did ON PAPER. Compare this to what
you wanted to do, and make notes for improvement for the future. During the development
period, you can even refer back to these notes to what specific things were discussed.

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Remember, it is the Elangomat HIMSELF who is responsible for the effective use of the
Elangomat Discussions. Preparation, enthusiasm, commitment, and practice will be factors that
determine the success of your discussions.

Questioning Techniques
When your clan members answer the questions given to them, they are not only responding to
the question itself, but also the way in which the question is worded. Their response is also
influenced by the location they are in, the previous question, who else is nearby, the tone of your
voice, and a whole slew of variables. This section is designed to help you start to select and use
the right questions for the right time. You are responsible, however, to communicate what you
want to say to the members of your clan. Never assume that they are on your line of thinking.
Though preparing and asking meaningful questions is difficult, the success of your discussions
(and possibly the success of your clan's induction), is a result of your commitment to do this.
Location
Since the nature of these sessions is semi-informal, you will want to find a location in which
everyone, including yourself, can relax. Avoid distractions, like too much noise, or too much sun
in their eyes. Make sure that you are able to make eye contact with everyone (no sunglasses!).
Their Perceptions
Both in your planning and before the discussion, take a few minutes to consider how the clan is
feeling. Remember, the best Elangomats anticipate and supplement the needs of their clan
before they develop into problems. As an example, their excitement during the first session on
Friday will not be the same as their attitudes on Saturday afternoon.
Remember, how the candidates see you will influence their responses to your questions. On
Friday night, you will be like a stranger to them, but by Sunday morning, they should see you as a
friend. You will get better responses if you are open and warm than you will if you are
authoritative and cold. The responses of the clan can be predicted if you modify your questions
with the location and perceptions of your clan.
Listening Responses
As a discussion leader, your responsibilities are to initiate, control and guide, and complete the
discussion. Ask questions that let the clan do most of the talking. By responding to the clan's
ideas, you can encourage participation because you are showing interest.
Encouragement
"Yes," "I see," and "I understand" are all phrases that show your interest without too much
reinforcement. You want to allow alternative points of view (if any) to be expressed, so avoid
phrases that show total agreement or disagreement.
Silence
Pause after you say someone's name to get their attention. Pause rhetorical questions and
before changing subjects. Avoid long pauses, however, as they can cause boredom and show a
lack of preparation.
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A smile, a nod, or a quizzical look can positively influence participation.

TYPES OF Q UESTIONS
Open vs. Closed - Open questions make sure a response is more than just a few words. Closed
questions require yes/no answers.
Open - What was most impressive about the pre-Ordeal?
Closed - Were you impressed with the pre-Ordeal?
Using too many closed questions does not allow candidates to express their opinions. You can
follow closed questions up with "Why?" to draw out answers, but open questions form a better
base for your discussions.
LEADING QUESTIONS
These questions have answers implied in them. There is just a response, and no discussion is
involved. These kinds of questions can put stress on individuals, and possibly even ruin the
rapport you have established.
It would be a better idea to ask sincere questions, since it shows the clan that you only want to
see how they think they did, not to make them nervous.
Leading - You didn't do to well on that job, did you?
Sincere - How do you think you did on that job?
Objective vs. Subjective - Objective questions are concerned with observable events, places or
objects, rather than feelings or opinions. Subjective questions deal with feelings, thoughts,
attitudes, and values.
Objective - What are the four tests of the Ordeal?
Subjective - Which of the four tests was hardest for you?
Clarification - This is basically a tool used to make ambiguous or vague answers more specific.

Open Clarification - What did you mean when you said...?

Closed Clarification - Can you think of other situations like that?

Summary - This is used to clarify a response. It may also summarize information and ask for
agreement or correction.

You said that Meteu was the guide of the Lodge, right?

Extension - A question that asks for more information.

Tell us more about what happened last night? What did you do when given the bow?

Echo - This is an exact restatement of the last answer. It shows the group that you are attentive
and encourages the group to expand on the subject.

Answer - The Ordeal challenged me to improve my self-discipline.

You - It challenged you?

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Choice - This is a tool for forcing decisions or commitment. Do not use it to put a candidate on the
"hot spot," but, rather, to make him think.

You said that the Ordeal was easy and then you said it was hard. Which of these was
more important to helping you learn about the principles of the Order.

*** - The knowledge that is given at the ceremonies, activities, and discussions is essential to the
candidates' induction. However, this can be (and probably will be) re-learned after the Ordeal.
Unlike the knowledge, the emotions and perceptions created at the Ordeal cannot be re-created.
Help your clan to identify these by asking, "How did you feel when...?"
IMPORTANT - A response of "I don't know means:
1. He wasn't paying attention -- ask for elaboration.
2. He can't vocalize his feelings -- ask questions on a smaller scope.
3. He is embarrassed -- develop a stronger rapport and try again.
DO NOT PICK ON OR FORCE ANY CANDIDATE TO ANSWER!

What do I cover during discussions?

There are some specific points that you must cover during the discussion sessions. Remember,
you may use any technique you like, as long as the information gets across and the candidates
benefit from it.
Phone Call (Introduce Yourself - Page 4)
1. Introduce yourself and explain who you are.
2. Congratulate him on his election.
3. Find out which Ordeal he will be attending (suggest Ordeal Weekend). If he is not
attending any Ordeal, end the phone call. Tell the Elangomat Chairman
who will be attending what weekend and who will not be attending any Ordeal at all.
4. Explain what he needs and doesn't need
5. Explain the necessity of punctuality for the night of the Ordeal
6. Try to dispel any fears (but remember symbolic progression)
7. Try to answer any questions
8. Find out about any restrictions (diet, physical state, etc.)
9. If necessary, speak to a parent (ignore symbolic progression) or give a parent the
advisor's phone number.
Discussion #1 (Be at Registration - Page 5)
1. Introduce yourself and have all other members of your clan introduce themselves.
2. Explain the meaning of the term "Elangomat," share the name of your clan.
3. Explain the equipment that the members of your clan should and should not take with
them. Explain how the rest of their equipment will be stored and cared for.
4. Help the members of your clan prepare their equipment. Ensure that they are properly
dressed.
5. Explain the need to listen intently during the ceremony.
6. Move your clan's extra equipment to the pre-selected storage area and report to the
Ordeal Master.

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Discussion #2 (The Cracker Barrel - Page 9)

1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
8.

The day of toil. (OA Handbook - pages 23, 27, 55)

The scant food. (OA Handbook - pages 24, 27, 55)
The vow of silence. (OA Handbook - pages 23, 27, 54)
Expectations of Ordeal membership and the ten-month development period. (OA
Handbook - pages 51-52, 56)
The four fold Ordeal: as part of the Induction. (OA Handbook - pages 23, 24)
The significance of Brotherhood membership. (OA Handbook - page 49)
Questions the clan members had better have. (OA Handbook - pages 54-56)
Distribution of materials.

Brotherhood Information (The Development Period - Pages 9-10)

1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
8.

9.
10.
11.
12.

Obligation. (OA Handbook - pages 10-12)

Song. (OA Handbook - page 13)
Sign of Ordeal membership. (Right hand to pull arrow from quiver)
Handclasp. (Left hand, bottom two fingers intertwined)
Admonition and translation. (Never written down, but look closely at OA Handbook - page
54)
Difference between Ordeal and Brotherhood membership. (OA Handbook - page 56)
Wimachtendienk, Wingolauchsik, Witahemui, and their translations. (OA Handbook page 11, Brotherhood, Cheerfulness, and Service)
Who Kitchkinet, Nutiket, Meteu, and Allowat Sakima are; where they stood in the
ceremonies; what Meteu and Allowat Sakima each gave the candidates.
(OA Handbook - page 54)
Symbolism of bow, bow string, and arrow - separately and together in the pre-Ordeal.
(OA Handbook - page 54)
Four tests of the Ordeal. (OA Handbook - pages 54-55)
Three preparations for the Obligation. (OA Handbook - page 55)
Legend of Uncas. (OA Handbook - page 55)

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CAMP WALLOWA

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