By Chris Gadd
On April 11, 2015, Chippanyonk Lodge held its annual banquet, celebrating the past year of Ordeals and events. However, that was not what made the banquet special. Chippanyonk Lodge was formed through a merger of two councils and their related OA lodges--Taunkacoo Lodge and Musketahquid Lodge --in 1996. After many years, Chippanyonk is a strong lodge with firm roots. At the annual banquet, Chippanyonk Lodge had the honor of seeing many members from Taunkacoo and Musketahquid who hadn’t been to an event in over 40 years. Many members came with their sons, whom they had helped bring into the tradition of the Order of the Arrow.
For the youth on that day, it was clear that the older members didn’t just come for the food. Throughout the night there were moments of recognition and saying hello to people that had been forgotten. The moment old friends met each other, it was as if they had been talking forever. As the youth looked on, they realized that the OA doesn’t just exist for the few years when you are a youth member or if you go on to be involved as an adult. Many Taunkacoo and Musketahquid members were there simply because they wanted to be.
One Scout who has been involved with Chippanyonk Lodge for several years said seeing so much history in one room was inspiring. “To witness the longevity of the friendships and camaraderie between those who mirror the spirit of the lodge today was a strong motivator to continue to work for and embrace the success of Chippanyonk."
Perhaps the most magical and stunning part of the evening was when it came time for the Vigil callout. As tradition, all Vigil Honor members were asked to stand and say their name, Lenni Lenape name, translation and when they kept their Vigil. As soon as one person stood up, it was clear that there was more than just one table. Almost two-thirds of the room stood up, and it was then that people realized how much the OA matters to them. Seeing so many members stand up, some of whom had not worn the sash in decades, was enough to make a real impact on the youth of today.
The current lodge chief was ecstatic to have so many lodge members return for the special night. “I was very pleased to see many lodge members that had been in Taunkacoo and Musketahquid Lodges return for some excellent fellowship!” he said. “I hope to see them at our future events having a great time and helping further the lodge through the advice and wisdom they have to offer.”