While there are three levels of membership (called “honors”) in the Order of the Arrow, all members—regardless of honor—are considered equal.
New Member or Ordeal
The induction ceremony, called the Ordeal, is the first step toward full membership in the Order. During the experience, New Members learn about the Order of the Arrow, work on camp improvement projects, and sleep apart from other campers. The entire experience is designed to teach significant values. All New Members for membership must complete the Ordeal. An Ordeal member wears a white sash with an arrow pointing towards the right shoulder.
Brotherhood Membership
After 6 months of service as an Ordeal member and fulfilling certain requirements, a member may take part in the Brotherhood ceremony, which places further emphasis on the ideals of Scouting and the Order. Completion of this ceremony signifies full membership in the Order. A Brotherhood member wears a white sash with a red arrow contained by two red bars.
Vigil Honor
After two years of exceptional service as a Brotherhood member, and with the approval of the national Order of the Arrow committee, a Scout or Scouter may be recognized with the Vigil Honor for their distinguished contributions to their lodge, the Order of the Arrow, Scouting, or their Scout camp. This honor is bestowed by special selection and is limited to one person for every 50 members registered with the lodge each year. A Vigil member wears a brotherhood sash adorned with a red triangle overlapping the arrow.