Congratulations, recently you were elected by your fellow troop members to become part of scouting’s national honor society, the Order of the Arrow (OA). In order to gain membership in the OA you must complete an ordeal, or a series of tests, to prove your sincere dedication to Scouting and the Order. This is an overnight event in which you will demonstrate you sincerity and desire to join our honored Order. After the Ordeal, you will be welcomed into the Order of the Arrow in a formal, time-ripened ceremony. This page contains general information for Ordeal Candidates and parents concerning the Order of the Arrow Ordeal conducted by the Mawat Woakus Lodge, Black Swamp Area Council       FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

When can I take my Ordeal? Scouts and leaders elected as candidates have two opportunities to take their Ordeal.  These are August 2010 at Camp Lakota or June 2011 at Camp Berry.  If you were elected you should receive a letter about a month before each function with the specific dates and costs.  If you have not received your letter you can call the Scout Office, ask any OA member, or contact an Executive Committee member by going to the "Contact Us" page on this website. What happens if I can't make it to or miss both of the Ordeals? Each candidate has exactly one year of eligibility from the date of their callout.  After that date you must stand for election, provided you still meet the membership requirements. What happens after my Ordeal? After you have completed your Ordeal you will have the opportunity to shop at the trading post ,meet your fellow lodge members, and go through the "OA Fair" on Sunday morning. What happens if the weather is bad? The Ordeal will be held regardless of the weather.  The only exception is if the weather will be severe enough for the event to be cancelled. In the case of severe weather a mass email will be sent out to all registered participants and staff. What will happen on my Ordeal? If you are a concerned parent and would like to know, you can contact the Lodge Adviser by going to the "Contact Us" page. How much does an Ordeal cost? The fee to attend an Ordeal as a "Candidate" is $40.00. This fee includes the following; fist year membership dues, new ordeal sash, current lodge flap, current OA handbook, four meals, and one cracker barrel.   What do I need to bring with me for my Ordeal? 2 complete changes of clothes Class A uniform Extra Pair of shoes Toiletries Towel Tent (for Lakota Ordeals Only) Flashlight BOY SCOUT PHYSICAL!!! Gear you will need that is specific to the Ordeal includes: Your complete uniform. Sleeping bag with ground cloth (10'X10' recommended). Work clothes Rain Gear and/or Coat depending on the weather. Water Bottle.