enhanced elangomat training PRESENTED BY Lodge Elangomat Chairman, John Perry Lodge Elangomat Adviser, Ron Morin

NEW FOR 2017 Every Chapter in the lodge will be required to provide at least one Elangomat for all Ordeal Ceremony Weekends. and at least one additional for every eight candidates from your chapter.

What is an Elangomat? The Elangomat is one who is fully willing to give himself in order to bring to others the true realization of the purpose and spirit of the Order of the Arrow. The title, “Elangomat” means FRIEND. Your primary responsibility is to be a friend to the candidate. Your job is not easy ; you must function as a mentor, counselor, mediator, and authority figure. You will endure the hardships of the Ordeal again and again to help new members gain the deep and powerful experience of the Ordeal.

WHY BE AN ELANGOMAT? Simply put One smile makes the candidate feel welcome One kind word teaches him friendship One handshake bonds him to you as a friend One example of cheerful service leads him One night of sleeping alone lets him reflect inward One day of irksome tasks makes him less selfish One day of scant food makes him hunger and to share his bounty later One Ordeal never to be repeated One chance to take the lofty journey

UNCAS Sachem of the Mohegan Tribe One individual who stepped forward when there were no others to help his tribe One who set the example for the tests of the Ordeal

THE SPIRIT OF AN ELANGOMAT The Elangomat is willing to sacrifice himself in order to preside over his clan. If you embody the spirit of the Ordeal, the candidates will follow your example and act accordingly. The more you keep the spirit of the Ordeal with you, the more powerful and meaningful the Ordeal for the candidates will be. Will you become an Elangomat?

Passaconaway’s ELANGOMAT guidelines The most important thing to remember about the Elangomat program is that the Elangomat is the head of the clan. He is their friend. The Elangomat should be at the Ordeal site early on Friday evening in order to greet the members of the clan. The Elangomat must get to know the clan members as well as possible in that short time. Gather them together, talk to them, find out their interests, etc. The Elangomat participates in the pre-ordeal ceremony with the clan.

When they come to the site where the candidates hear the tests of the Ordeal, the Elangomat stands with the clan and does test the bow to demonstrate to his clan that he is doing the Ordeal with them. With the guidance of Kichkinet, the Elangomat should be the one to set out the clan members Friday night. The Elangomat will sleep with his clan and also be the one to awaken them on Saturday morning. The Elangomat eats breakfast with the clan then meets with the Lodge Elangomat Chair to discuss any problems that have been encountered and to go over the day’s work projects.

At all times during the Ordeal, the Elangomat must respect the tests and principles of the Ordeal in full. The Elangomat sets the example for the clan by his actions not words. The Elangomat should talk only when necessary. He will wear his OA sash so that other members can identify him. Although many members will be working on the work projects along with the clans, it’s the Elangomat who should have the final say regarding the tasks of the clan. Never break up a clan during the Ordeal. It’s important that the Elangomat is seen as a friend and a guide to the members of the clan. Remember that you are not the “boss” and absolutely no form of hazing will be tolerated!

The Elangomat will lead his clan to the trail where Kitchkinet will meet you and bind them with the rope then lead the clans into the Circle. The Elangomat will follow the clan and assist the ceremony team in presenting the sashes. When the Ordeal is completed, it is important for the Elangomat to keep in touch with the clan members. Invite them to chapter meetings and help them attain Brotherhood.

WHAT DO I NEED TO BRING WITH ME? Backpack with a clean change of clothes and related camping gear for Saturday night. Tent Sleeping bag and pad Horseshoe pack with a tarp, 3 woolen blankets, jacket or sweatshirt, rain gear, water bottle, insect repellent, work gloves, and toiletries. Class A shirt and OA sash All of the above should be clearly labeled with your name and chapter.

HOW DO I KNOW WHO MY CANDIDATES ARE? You and your candidates will have a number on their bracelet designating which clan they belong to.

WHAT DO I DO AS THE CANDIDATES ARRIVE? Introduce yourself and make friends. Make sure everyone has their gear and tools in the proper location by chapter. Lead them to the American Indian Village so they can enjoy the food and activities.

Who do I ask for help or answer any of my questions? The Lodge Elangomat Chairman will be there to assist and guide all clans.

We want you!