Arrowmen are called “brothers” for good a reason. Brother is more than simple membership, the Wimachtendienk implies that everyone in the Order - no matter their level, location or background - can be as close as family. Sometimes families join the Order together, and oftentimes becoming brothers can strengthen their relationships further.
We asked Arrowmen on Facebook to tell us about their experiences with their family in the OA. Some joined the Order before their family member and enabled the experiences that the relative had. "I received my Vigil [Honor] before my dad," said Thomas D. "I was able to be his Vigil sponsor, which was a really special thing for me."
Clara S.'s grandson attended OA events as early as kindergarten. "The weekend he went through his Ordeal [six years later], I went through my Vigil. This was one of the most memorable events of our lives."
Victoria S. was inducted into the OA soon after her son. "I enjoyed seeing him called out... [and he was there] when I was called out." He served as her Elangomat and Nimat, attended the National Leadership Seminar together and worked on events together. "I watched him get called [out] to keep his Vigil."
Some family members experienced their induction together. "I got to go through all the ceremonies with my father," recalled Anthony N. "I love being able to share these memories with [him]."
"My youngest son and I [went through the Ordeal] at the same time," said Brad B. "Both of my sons and I went through Brotherhood in the same ceremony."
Occasionally, the Wimachtendienk even spans multiple generations. "My dad was involved in my Vigil Ceremony, and I was involved in my son's," said David K. "[It was] very special for all of us."
Most would agree that the Order of the Arrow creates memories that last a lifetime. The Arrowmen above have the added bonus of sharing them with their families - truly something special about the organization.
Be sure to interact with us on social media - Facebook, Twitter and Instagram and you may be featured in an upcoming publication!