Alpha Chi Omega
Initiation Ritual
Pledging Ceremony
Those who have accepted the invitation extended by Alpha Chi Omega must be
given due notification of the date and time of their Pledging Ceremony. All
chapter members are required to be present at the ceremony unless excused by the
Chapter President for good and sufficient reason. .
1994
The Pledging Ceremony should be held in a room which will enhance the
ceremonial atmosphere desired. The formation as indicated in the drawing should
be used. An alternate formation is offered in those situations where the number
of new members is nearly equal to the number of chapter members. If only one or
two new members are to be pledged, it is suggested that chapter members take the
places of the mystagogues indicated in the drawing, in order to keep the
"hollow square."
The table should be draped in a freshly pressed, clean white cloth. If space
permits, an arrangement of red carnations and smilax or fern placed on the table
will enhance the effect Otherwise, consideration should be given to having such
an arrangement somewhere in the room. Also, for each new member, there should be
a single long-stemmed red carnation accented with smilax or fern bound together
by florist tape and possibly tied with red and green ribbons. These are to be
given to the Warden to hold until the time of pin presentation. She stands to
the right of Pretanis,
Electric candles will emphasize the desired atmosphere: candles ih glass
hurricane lamps might also be used. If space permits, the candles are most
effective on the table where the Pledge Record Book is placed; otherwise, they
should be on some type of high standards flanking the table. Pledge pins equal
to the number of new members should be on a small tray on the same table as the
Pledge Record Book. Pretanis should have a list of the mystagogue-mystagee
assignments.
Participants should be dressed in a conventional manner appropriate to the
occasion. After a Formal Rush Week the local Panhellenic Handbook often,
stipulates the dress for pledging. Where an Informal Rush Week is involved, the
individual chapters must be sure to notify each prospective new member of the
preferred dress.
In an adjoining room the Vice President-Pledge Education should arrange the
new members in proper order (usually it is alphabetically for the purpose of
signing the Pledge Record Book, as well as ease of mystagogue arrangement). She
will then lead them before Pretanis in a slow step.
After the ceremony opportunity should be given each mystagogue to talk
seriously and privately with he: new member, stressing the individual
responsibility and privilege of each new member within the chapter and the
National Fraternity.
After the chapter members have taken their places, Pretanis addresses them
before the new members are brought into the room.
PRETANIS: As a chapter, we are about to participate in one of our
most important ceremonies. Through rush parties we meet and select those whom we
feel will bring new vitality to our group. Let us remember this as we listen and
review the concepts each of us has accepted.
The Vice President-Pledge Education leads the new members into the room while
"Alpha
Chi, How We Love Thy Name" is sung.
PRETANIS: We, the officers and members of … Chapter of Alpha Chi
Omega are convened for the purpose of conferring upon you the privileges and
responsibilities of the First Degree of Initiation that will lead to the
fulfilment of your wish to become a member of our Fraternity.
You have come here in response to our invitation, extended because we believe
that the Fraternity will be strengthened by your influence for good, your power
of achievement. The Pledging Ceremony is the first step toward your initiation
into Alpha Chi Omega. Each state of membership presents a challenge designed to
develop you as an individual and as an Alpha Chi Omega. .
As a Greek-letter fraternity, we use many of the ancient rites and customs of
the Hellenes, one of these being a period of orientation. Because we realize it
takes time to know individuals as well as the functioning of any organization,
we have a mutual period of orientation for you and ourselves. As you learn about
the high personal, social and scholastic ideas for which we stand, we will
expect you to embrace them as your own. During pledgeship we expect you to learn
about the Fraternity, the beliefs upon which it was founded, its development and
its requirements. During tills period we expect our members to assist you in any
way they can to help you learn, understand. And appreciate membership in Alpha
Chi Omega.
Our Fraternity adheres to a strict Code of Conduct in regard to the personal
behaviour of its members. Should sufficient cause arise for withholding the
privilege of initiation, we reserve the right to release you from your pledge...
Should you have doubt about membership in Alpha Chi Omega, we would expect a
request for release to come from you during the time of pledgeship before you
are initiated into full membership. With this clearly in mind, do you desire
that the Ceremony shall proceed? The answer is, 'I do.’
Pause for new member response.
Since you understand and agree to our prerequisites for pledging, will you
now raise your right hand and repeat after me the following pledge:
A pause is to be made at each dash to allow repetition by the new members.
I pledge myself to do all in my power to prepare myself for membership in,
this chapter and - at all times - to support its interests.
I pledge myself always to uphold – the honor and integrity of each member -
of Alpha Chi Omega - as well as the Fraternity at large.
I pledge myself to consult – with the mystagogue who will be my counsellor
- throughout my pledgeship.
I agree to relinquish - all claim to initiation into Alpha Chi Omega - should
I violate these pledges.
To all of which I pledge – my most solemn word of honor.
PRETANIS: You are now invited to sign our Pledge Record Book.
New members sign names, etc., while the chapter sings appropriate Alpha Chi
Omega songs, such as "Long Have I Cherished" or "Girl of the
Golden Lyre." The number of songs is governed by the size of the new member
class. As each new member finishes signing the Pledge Record Book, she returns
to her place in the line.
PRETANIS: You are now invited to sign our Pledge Record Book.
PRETANIS: In ancient Greece, the candidate for initiation would
ask a former initiate to be his guide or mystagogue, This ancient custom of
assigning a mystagogue has become the heritage of Alpha Chi Omega. I am about to
assign you a mystagogue who will act as your counselor in all matters pertaining
to the Fraternity and your initiation. Consult with your mystagogue freely,
especially in time of need.
In the name of Chapter of Alpha Chi Omega, and as its presiding officer, I
hereby appoint the following members to be me mystagogues of these new members
during the period before their initiation and throughout their life in the
collegiate chapter.
Pretanis then reads the list.
Each mystagogue or steps behind her assigned new member as the appointment is
made.
PRETANIS: Alpha Chi Omega has recognized in you the qualities that make you
eligible for membership in the Fraternity. Our standards are surpassed by no
other fraternity.
Scholastically it will be necessary far you to attain a minimum average of at
this (college/university) to be admitted into full membership. Socially, Alpha
Chi Omega expects its members to abide by a Code of Conduct defined by the
National Fraternity.
This involves maintaining the highest personal moral standards at all times,
meeting all obligations to the chapter, and abiding by federal, state and
college regulations. We also expect that your interest in the varied activities
of campus and community life will further broaden your purpose of daily living.
When you assume these responsibilities, Alpha Chi Omega will be at its best
because of you. .
The time has come for you to be invested with our pledge pin which is
diamond-shaped, enamelled in scarlet and olive green, bearing a gold lyre across
its face.
Pretanis remains in her position behind the table and hands the tray of
pledge pins to the Vice President-Pledge Education who then works her way down
the line of new members, handing one pin to each mystagogue. In turn, the
mystagogue invests her assigned new member with the pledge pin. The Warden
follows the Vice President-Pledge Education, presenting each new member with a
red carnation after she has been invested with the pledge pin. The chapter sings
an appropriate song while this is taking place, such as "Carnation
Song," "She's Pledged to Alpha Chi," or another according to
chapter tradition.
PRETANIS: This pin not only signifies our faith in you and your
desire to become one of us, but it also indicates that you have taken that first
step toward full membership, its privileges and responsibilities. The red
carnation is a joyful reminder of the heritage we will share. You may rely on
our love and confidence throughout-your journey.
The new members, led by their mystagogues, take their places among the
chapter members. The entire group forms a circle and the chapter members sing
another appropriate song. The circle then breaks according to the custom of the
individual chapter, allowing the new members to receive the congratulations of
their mystagogues and others.
Initiation Ceremony
Second Degree of Initiation into Alpha Chi Omega
Outside the Temple
This is a SPECIAL CEREMONY that takes place just before the actual Initiation
Ceremony. It is to be conducted by the Vice President-pledge Education in the
room where the initiates are being robed. Because this material sets the stage
for the pageant to follow, it is recommended that the initiates be robed before
this presentation. The Bond Book may be signed at this time if the number of
initiates is large. The Vice President-Pledge Education should memorize the
following material with the exception of the passages from
"The Ritual Statement," which may be read, in order to present the
material with greater feeling than is possible while referring to the text. At
the conclusion of this ceremony, Iris is to lead the initiates to the Initiation
Ceremony room.
VICE PRESIDENT-PLEDGE EDUCATION: The Pledging Ceremony was your
first step toward initiation into Alpha Chi Omega Fraternity. Each stage of
membership presents a challenge designed to encourage you to develop as an
individual, and as an Alpha Chi Omega, you have met the first challenge toward
complete fulfilment and appreciation of Fraternity. Alpha Chi Omega has
recognized in you the qualities that make you eligible for membership in the
Fraternity.
During your pledgeship, you learned the non-secret features of au:
Fraternity: You are now ready to have the more confidential portions of Alpha
Chi Omega revealed to you as you participate in our beloved Initiation Ceremony.
The 'Alpha Chi Omega Statement on the Ritual' says: 'The Ritual of Alpha Chi
Omega stands as a clear pronouncement of the purposes, values and goals of our
sisterhood. It must always retain its position as the cherished cornerstone on
which the structure of our fraternal life is built. It is the responsibility of
each chapter to perpetuate the use of our Ritual with a correct understanding of
its nature and purpose.
'ITS PURPOSE. Our Ritual states the ideals and values on which our sisterhood
is based and provides a framework on which those ideals can be reinforced. Each
time we participate in our Ritual, we are reminded of and challenged to uphold
those values set forth in our ceremonies and summarized in our open motto:
'Together let us seek the heights.' The performance of our Ritual is meant to
focus the eyes of all sisters on our common bond and common purpose: the
constant striving for excellence' in our individual and collective endeavors.
'ITS NATURE. The nature of our Ritual is that of an art form – a pageant, a
dramatization of our ideals set against a backdrop of classical Greek mythology.
The message spoken by our Ritual therefore appeals to more than just our ears
and our minds; to an extent it is also permitted to have a visual appeal and to
stir our aesthetic sensibilities. It may be considered spiritual in the sense
that music or art or drama or poem, touch the spiritual aspects of our nature,
but it is never to be viewed as a religious ceremony.
In order to understand and enjoy your initiation more fully, you should know
that Greek mythology is the basis for the symbols and traditions in Greek-letter
societies. In these legends are found the embodiment of ancient Greek ideals and
highest attainments. Many of our own customs and traditions have their beginning
in ancient Greek folklore. This ancient background is reflected in the attire
you are wearing as well as in the special properties and the music used
throughout the ceremony.
In 1885 our seven founders agreed that the object of the Alpha Chi Omega
fraternity was to encourage the spirit of true sisterhood, to develop through
personal effort a high moral and mental standard, and to advance the
appreciation of the fine arts among its members.
Alpha Chi Omega has endeavored to preserve these ideals and to make them a
pan of the life of every member, that her formal education, so far removed from
classical influence in this present time, may be supplemented and enhanced by an
appreciation of human needs, beauty of living and artistic development.
Enjoy your initiation, and yet listen carefully-for in the precepts it
contains you will find many meaningful guidelines for living.
Initiation Ceremony
Inside the Temple
Admete is seated on the throne holding a scepter in her right hand. At the
left of the throne is the altar on which burns a Greek lamp, tended by Hestia,
who holds the peacock plumes over her left arm. At the right of Admete stands
Hebe with the censer. Eunomia guards the temple door and makes certain that only
Alpha Chi Omega members have entered.
Euterpe is seated at the piano. Dike and Eirene are standing in the center of
the base of the triangle. Once Iris has led the initiates into the temple,
Eunomia joins Dike and Eirene in the base.
ADMETE reads: The Alpha Chi Omega Statement on the Ritual says:
'The Ritual of Alpha Chi Omega stands as a clear pronouncement of the purposes,
values and goals of our sisterhood. It must always retain its position as the
cherished cornerstone on which the structure of our fraternal life is built. It
is the responsibility of each chapter to perpetuate the use of our Ritual with a
correct understanding of its nature and purpose.
'ITS PURPOSE. Our Ritual states the ideals and values on which our sisterhood
is based and provides a framework on which those ideals can be reinforced. Each
time we participate in our Ritual, we are reminded of and challenged to uphold
those values set forth in our Ceremonies and summarized in our open motto:
'Together let us seek the heights.' The performance of our Ritual is meant to
focus the eyes of all sisters on our common bond and common purpose: the
constant striving for excellence in our individual and collective endeavors.
'ITS NATURE. The nature of our Ritual is that of an art form-a pageant, a
dramatization of our ideals set against a backdrop of classical Greek mythology.
The message spoken by our Ritual therefore appeals to more than just our ears
and our minds; to an extent it is also permitted to have a visual appeal and to
stir our aesthetic sensibilities. It maybe considered spiritual in the sense
that music or art or drama or poetry touch the spiritual aspects of our nature,
but it is never to be viewed as a religious ceremony .
Iris leads the initiates to the temple door after they have been robed and
the introduction to the Initiation Ceremony has been conducted.
To initiates: You, a Child of Darkness regarding the mysteries of
our ancient sisterhood, have come form the Outer World seeking our inspired
teachings. You are about to be conducted into the presence of those who are
convened in the Temple of Light where the mystic rites of Alpha Chi Omega will
be revealed to you. Your willingness to enter the portal imposes upon you a
personal responsibility. From here on, you will learn to extend loyalty of
thought and deed toward those within the temple. The intent of this ceremony is
that it contains nothing that will interfere with your duties to yourself, your
neighbor, your country or you: God.
Banish all worldly thoughts now, and prepare yourself in spirit for the
ancient symbols of mythology. Put yourself in the context of the time when our
Founders created our lovely Initiation Ceremony. The classics were a primary
focus of intellectual pursuit, and the imagery exhibited in mythology was viewed
seriously. In today's society emphasis seldom focuses on the classics, and
language contains few references to the Grecian period of ancient history. Our
ceremony provides you, the initiate, with an opportunity to experience a very
different culture. By its very nature, ritual is not modernized., or this thread
which binds all Alpha Chi Omegas together over eternity would be lost. Consider
this ceremony a pageant, a pan of the great cultural heritage passed down to us
from the Golden Grecian Age, when men on earth, groping for perfection, in their
minds created deities dwelling on Olympus, who symbolized for man those virtues
which he sought to attain. Give your whole attention to the words of the
legendary High Priestess, Admete, who according to the Greek myth, left her high
estate to take sanctuary in the Temple of Hera, and in accordance with a vision,
remained thereafter as its most exalted priestess. Observe and listen
attentively that you may fully understand the meaning of the solemn oath you
will take.
Within the Temple:
ADMETE: Hebe, make certain there are no strangers present.
HEBE: I have done so.
Admete gives the following charge at the same time that Iris is addressing
the initiates outside the temple. Hebe's reply is the cue for both of them to
begin speaking.
ADMETE: We, the children of Light, are convened in this, our
temple, for the purpose of revealing to a petitioner the mystic rites of Alpha
Chi Omega. Having found the supplicants worthy in all respects, we are now about
to unlock for them the door leading to the inner temple. Remember the vows you
yourselves have taken here, for in the name of those vows, I hold each of you
personally responsible and morally accountable for loyalty of thought and deed
toward her who now approaches the golden throne. Should she stumble in her
efforts to reach the heights, do not condemn, but help her regain her foothold;
should temptation touch her, shield her with your love; should sorrow darken her
path, comfort he: with your devotion.
Thus will we in practice reflect to the Outer World the inner teachings of
our Fraternity. Let us raise our voices in solemn chant.
"Greek Chant" is played and sung by all members.
At the conclusion of her speech to the initiates and at the conclusion of the
singing, Iris gives the Fraternity knock at the door of the temple. Eunomia
answers the knock.
During the following dialogue, the singular form is used if there is but one
candidate for initiation.
EUNOMIA: Who are you?
IRIS: A Child of Light, a sister in the Bond.
EUNOMIA: Are you alone?
IRIS: No, I bring candidates desiring to be initiated members of
Alpha Chi Omega.
EUNOMIA: Who are they, and what do they come seeking?
IRIS: They are named … gives names and
they seek to become Children of Light.
EUNOMIA: By what right do they come seeking this honor?
IRIS: By their sincere desire to become worthy representatives of
Alpha Chi Omega.
EUNOMIA: Then let them enter.
Iris enters leading the initiates, each one having her right hand on the left
shoulder of the one preceding. Iris having demonstrated this to them while they
were being robed. A slow, not hesitating step is used. She conducts them to the
base of the mangle and through the place left vacant by Eunomia and toward the
throne. She places the initiates in rows in the center of the formation.
They are placed in equal rows.determined by the number of initiates and the
size a the room and are to be facing toward Admete. Eunomia follows the line of
initiates and take her place at the base of the triangle. Eunomia plays the
"Greek Chant" softly while the initiates are entering and being
placed. When all is quiet, Admeta stands. Chapter members again sing the
"Greek Chant." and after this is sung. Admete speaks.
ADMETE: Stranger, you are on the threshold of a great and mystic
sisterhood and before you may proceed further, I am compelled to bind you to the
most profound secrecy. Do you solemnly promise that the secrets of this night
shall remain with you, never to be spoken aloud or whispered, never to be
written, carved, or painted or to be otherwise communicated either directly or
by parable to those not of our Fraternity? If so, the answer is: 'I do solemnly
promise.’
Iniates repeat: I do solemnly promise.
ADMETE: You are now within the Temple of Light where all is
harmony and clarity. But you must go forth again into the Outer World which is
the Hall of Strife and Darkness, where along life's pathway there are many
temptations. Before you may be free of these temptations, harmony within must be
attained. Within this temple there are three pathways: the Halls of Wisdom.
Devotion and Achievement Your understanding of their teachings will lead to that
harmony of spirit which carries to the Outer World the radiance of the light
within.
Prepare yourself now for your journey along the mystic pathways leading to
your enlightenment. 1m can but lead the wav. By your own efforts you will reach
the goal. Remember to fix your gaze upon the heights; aim to attain perfection
in all that you attempt; strive for knowledge, but let knowledge go hand in hand
with humility. Guard against selfishness for you will receive much.
Having received. you must give in order that the great law of compensation
maybe exemplified in you, Meditate upon your own shortcomings before you
pronounce judgment upon others and let harmony be the keynote in your relations
with all mankind. Thus you’re your life show forth the ideals of our
Fraternity.
Before you take your first step, O Seeker of Light consider carefully our
teachings as they have been revealed to you.
While the "Meditation and March of the Hours" is softly played, the
First Formation changes to the Second Formation.
Second Formation
ADMETE: Candidates, do you find your heart and mind in accord with
the essence of our teachings? If so, the answer is: ‘They are in true accord'.
Initiates repeat: They are in true accord.
ADMETE: Prepare yourself to hear the Bond of Alpha Chi Omega to
which you are required to pledge your solemn oath of allegiance.
DIKE reads the following aloud from the Bond Book, allowing the book to rest
upon the altar. After reading The Bond, she closes the book: We, the
Children of Light, who have inscribed our names on this scroll, desirous of
perpetuating the rites of this Fraternity the purposes of which are to bind
together with the closest bonds all those who take upon themselves its vows, to
exemplify as each day passes the duty of service to our fellow beings and to
follow faithfully and intelligently the three Muses: Art, Literature and Song,
do hereby dedicate ourselves to these purposes embodied in our Fraternity, known
to the Outer World as Alpha Chi Omega, of which this Bond shall be the visible
token.
We bind ourselves to regard as sisters all those who enter herein; to extend
to each the love and loyalty which one sister has the right to demand of
another, to promote her interests as we would our own; to hold ourselves
responsive to her needs; and to guard her character from the breath of slander.
We bind ourselves to endeavor to attain intellectual, moral and physical
perfection; to cultivate the love of truth for its own sake; to seek it in every
department of study, and having found it, to give it forth for the benefit of
society.
We bind ourselves to strive always to develop that fineness of moral feeling,
nobility of character, strength of intellect and kindness of hem inherent in
every true woman; and to admit into this Bond only those who are capable of
attaining such a standard.
We bind ourselves to work faithfully and harmoniously for the perfect
attainment of these purposes, provided that nothing herein shall be so construed
as to interfere with our duty to our neighbor and to our God.
We bind ourselves to keep forever secret from every person not dedicated to
this Bond all things pertaining to our solemn rites, known to the Outer World as
the Ritual of the Alpha Chi Omega Fraternity; and moreover, if, for any reason,
anyone of us should become disconnected from this fraternity, we do most
solemnly bind ourselves to hold inviolate the obligation of secrecy which we
have sworn to maintain.
And finally, we declare that this Bond shall be forever unalterable, except
by vote of the Alpha Chi Omega Fraternity.
ADMETE: You have now heard The Bond of Alpha Chi Omega. Are you
ready for the Oath of Allegiance? The answer is: 'I am ready. '
Initiates repeat: I am ready.
ADMETE: Then repeat after me the Oath.
INITIATES, Admete prompting: I hereby solemnly affirm and declare,
that I do accept the Bond of Alpha Chi Omega and that I will keep its statutes
in loyalty and love and that I will endeavor at all times to bring honor to the
Fraternity. May I be kept forever steadfast in this, my secret and binding
obligation.
ADMETE: In the name of Hera, our patron goddess, and as High
Priestess of the Temple, it becomes my joyous duty to pronounce you as one of
the Children of Light and a sister in The Bond of Alpha Chi Omega. You may now
look upon the mysteries pertaining to the temple.
The first path leads to the Hall of Wisdom. There you will find the open book
which holds within its pages the keystone of our philosophy. There all shadows
are unknown, and the light of truth shines with unfading glory.
Be humble if you would attain wisdom; be humbler still when wisdom you have
mastered. DIKE, Guardian of the Open Book, reveal the secrets of the Hall of
Wisdom.
DIKE: First must I have the Golden Key whose mystic sounds unlock
its treasures.
Third Formation
As the "Song of the First Golden Key is sung softly, Admete returns to
her seat on the throne. Iris turns the initiates in their places to face toward
the Hall of Wisdom (First Hall). Once the initiates are facing the Hall, Iris
nods to the line of chapter members in front of the Hall, and upon this cue,
this line turns to its right and chapter members walk slowly in a
counter-clockwise direction, reforming the line in front of the throne. Upon
movement of the line in front of the First Hall, the line in front of the Third
Hall turns to its right and chapter members walk slowly in a counter-clockwise
direction, reforming the line in front of the Second Hall. As always, the lines
face inwards toward the initiates. Iris takes her place at the left side of
Dike. When all are in place and the "Song of the First Golden Key" has
been sung. Iris speaks.
IRIS: The Hall of Wisdom will reveal to you the meaning of our
name, our motto and other things pertinent to our Fraternity.
DIKE: Welcome, Seeker of Truth to the Hall of Wisdom. Behold the
Open Book. The Bond of Alpha Chi Omega to which you have already sworn
allegiance. This scroll contains the names of all those who have entered the
temple through this hall. It has been your privilege to enrol yourself as one of
the Children of Light.
Initiates sign their names in alphabetical order in the Bond Book, together
with the proper dates, addresses and Bond Book numbers. Iris sees that each
initiate is immediately ready to follow her predecessor.
When a chapter is being installed or when a large number of initiates is
going through the Ceremony, the initiates should be permitted to sign the Bond
Book just before the Ceremony begins. If the Bond Book has been pre-signed,
Dike's speech ends: "It has been your privilege to enrol .yourself herein
as one of the Children of Light"
Euterpe plays softly the "Song of the First Golden Key" while the
Bond Book is being signed, following it by the "March of the Hours" if
there is a large number of Initiates.
Iris, after assisting with moving initiates forward to sign, takes her place
at the left side of Dike, facing the initiates.
DIKE: It is now my duty to instruct you in the mysteries of which
I am the guardian, let these three Golden Precepts aid you in your search for
knowledge:
First, cultivate tolerance and open-mindedness.
Second, learn to distinguish the true from the false.
Third, strive to keep the proper balance between the head and the heart.
Such are the precepts of the Hall of Wisdom. Crowning these with our open
motto, ΣγΣΠΟγΑΣΩΜΕΝ
ΤΑ ΑΝΩΤΑΤΑ, translated ‘Together let us seek the Heights,' and
keeping them ever before us, may we climb onward and upward to the better,
higher things of life.
From this time forward we expect you to join with us in bringing honor to the
Fraternity. May each day reflect the selection of worthy objectives and tasks
well done; and let our name, Alpha Chi Omega, whose hidden meaning is ΑΓΑΘΙΑ
ΧΑΡΙΣ ΟΦΘΛΙΑ, be a constant inspiration. For
ΑΓΑΘΙΑ, means goodness,
virtue; ΧΑΡΙΣ, kindness. refinement;
ΟΦΘΛΙΑ, assistance, benefit.
The password of the Temple is AL-CHI-GA. This is formed from the first
syllable of Alpha and the last syllable of Omega, keeping Chi as the middle
syllable.
The cornerstone of our Temple is the secret motto, ΚΟΙΝΩΝΙΑ
ΚΡΑΤΕΙ Η ΦΙΛΙΑ
ΣγΝΕΡΓΙΑΔΕ Η
ΚΟΙΝΩΝΙΑ, translated, 'The strength of love is Unity; the strength of Unity,
Co-operation.'
DIKE holds up a picture of the coat of arms and points to the various parts
as she speaks or uses one mounted on the wall behind her.
DIKE: Alpha Chi Omega has adopted a coat of arms embodying in
symbol the mysteries of the Fraternity. The square shield is divided into three
pans picturing the trinity within our Ritual. It is red, cut by a bar of green.
The crest is a lyre bird, suggesting our badge. It is the spirit of music,
hovering over us as a constant source of inspiration.
The first division of the shield displays an Open Book symbolic of the Bond
of Alpha Chi Omega, In a larger sense it represents to us the wisdom of the
ages, and is open that all may read and acquire knowledge.
In the second division there are Three Stars which correspond to the three
essential jewels in our badge. These radiate unceasingly: 'their message of
Faith, Hope, and Love to those within our Temple, who is turn reflect it to the
Outer World.'
The sheaf of wheat in the third division represents the garnering of our
hopes, the harmonious co-existence of the fine and liberal arts with all of our
studies. It is corded and tied with a knot forever securing our sisterly love in
permanent union.
Below the shield is a scroll bearing the Greek words of our open motto,
'Together let us seek the Heights.'
With this heraldic symbol in mind, we go forth to strive for the ideals of
our Fraternity, keeping her name untarnished and her standards high.
This completes the mysteries guarded by the Hall of Wisdom. From here your
path leads to the Second Hall, where further secrets will be unfolded to you.
ADMETE: The second path leads to the hall of Devotion. There you
will find the Three Stars: Faith, Hope, and Love, plucked from the veil of Hera
and set for time unending within our Golden Lyre. Before you can apply what you
have learned here, you must attune your heart and mind to the great hear: and
mind of all mankind. Eirene, Guardian of the Three Stars, reveal the mysteries
of the Hall of Devotion.
EIRENE: First must I have the Second Golden Key whose mystic
sounds unlock its treasures.
Fourth Formation
As the "Song of the Second Golden Key" is sung softly, Iris turns
the initiates in their places to face toward the Hall of Devotion (Second Hall).
Once the initiates are facing the Hall, Iris. nods to the line of chapter
members in front of the Hall, and upon this clue, this line turns to its right
and chapter members walk slowly in a counter-clockwise direction, reforming the
line in front of the First Hall. Upon movement of the line in front of the
Second Hall, the line in front of the throne turns to its right and chapter
members walk slowly in a counter-clockwise direction, reforming the line in
front of the Third Hall. As always, the lines face inwards toward the initiates.
When all are in place and the "Song of the Second Golden Key" has been
sung, Iris takes her place at the left side of Eirene, facing the initiates, and
Iris speaks.
IRIS: Eirene is the Goddess of Peace and the Keeper of the Lyre.
She will explain the significance of our badge.
EIRENE: Welcome, Seeker of Love, to the Hall of Devotion. It is
now my duty to instruct you in the mysteries of which I am the guardian. Let
these three Golden Precepts aid you in your search for Love:
First, strive for harmony in all things.
Second, cultivate an appreciation for the Fine Arts.
Third, live to benefit others.
Such are the precepts of the Hall of Devotion. All nature is organized
according to the laws of harmony. Among the ancient Greeks, music in general
meant the education of the soul, They felt music to be a spiritual thing, too
far removed from common affairs to have an earthly origin. Our beloved symbol,
the lyre, was invented by Hermes and played by the gods on Mount Olympus. Upon
the death of Orpheus, greatest of the Greek lyrists, Zeus placed his lyre in the
skies, where it is still to be seen as the constellation Lyra, with Vega as its
brightest star. Thus was it held divine by the Greeks from whom it was handed
down to us.
Eirene holds up a large drawing or suitable replica of the badge while
explaining the following symbolism to the initiates and points to it while she
speaks or uses one mounted on the wall behind her.
EIRENE: First must I have the Third Golden Key whose mystic sounds
unlock its treasures.
EIRENE: The frame of the lyre is fashioned of gold, signifying
purity, truth, and light. It is set with precious stones, expressing beauty,
harmony and immortality. The lyre within the lyre represents to us the life of
the girl within the Fraternity, while the three strings signify the individual
girl, the chapter, and the Fraternity as a whole. If one string fails to answer,
discord arises and the melody is lost; for they are inseparably bound together
by the scroll which represents our secret Bond. Upon this scroll is inscribed
our Greek name.
Three stones are required to represent the three stars, and these form our
perfect mangle. The two upper, outer jewels, Faith and Hope, point to all that
is inspiring and helpful; while the center jewel Love, is the heart of the pin,
symbolic of true sisterhood in Alpha Chi Omega.
The lyre is the most precious of our symbols, the crowning gift of
sisterhood, and is never bestowed by anyone except the High Priestess at the
conclusion of our rites.
This completes the mysteries guarded by the Hall of Devotion. From here the
path leads to the Third Hall, where the remaining secrets will be unfolded to
you.
ADMETE: The third path leads to the Hall of Achievement. There you
will find the fruition of our hopes, the garnered sheaf from which we gain the
bread of wisdom. As season follows season, fresh wheat must be-corded in the
sheaf; therefore, let each harvester for the temple sow seeds of love and kindly
acts in the fields of the furore. Eunomia, Guardian of the Sheaf reveal the
mysteries of the Hall of Achievement.
EUNOMIA: First must I have Third
Golden Key whose mystic sounds unlock its treasures.
Fifth Formation
As the "Song of the Third Golden Key" is sung softly, Iris turns
the initiates in their places to face toward the Hall of Achievement (Third
Hall). Once the initiates are facing the Hall, Iris nods to the line of chapter
members in front of the Third Hall, and upon this clue, this line turns to its
right and chapter members walk slowly in a counter-clockwise direction,
reforming the line in front of the Second Hall. Upon movement of the line in
front of the Third Hall, the line in front of the First Hall turns to its right
and chapter members walk slowly in a counter-clockwise direction, reforming the
line in front of the throne. As always, the lines face inwards towards the
initiates. When all are in place and the "Song of the Third Golden
Key" has been sung, Iris takes her place at the left side of Eunomia,
facing the initiates, and Iris speaks.
IRIS: Eunomia is the Goddess of Good Order and Keeper of the
Carnations. She will reveal more of our traditions and will tell you the Legend
of the Red Carnation.
EUNOMIA: Welcome Seeker of Action, to the Hall of Achievement. It
is now my duty to instruct you in the mysteries of which I am the guardian. Let
these three Golden Precepts aid you in your future acts:
First, cultivate ambition and industry
Second, strive for physical perfection.
Third, practice honor, uprightness and fairness.
Such are the precepts of the Hall of Achievement which should be applied to
your collegiate and alumnae life. Although we require your undivided loyalty, we
advise you to identify yourself with the larger interests and organizations of
your college. Remember that Alpha Chi Omega endeavors to maintain a broad-minded
policy and stands for absolute fairness in all relations. Remember, also, that
undue absorption in your college life will tend to blind you to the larger
interests of the outside world.
There are certain forms in use among those who have entered the temple with
which you should become acquainted. Toe door of the temple will open only in
response to the proper knock which is thus: Illustrates
by knocking on the hall table while she speaks one long, two short,
and one long knocks. You will be answered by two short, and two long knocks.
Eunomia demonstrates both knocks by rapping on the table as she speaks.
All written communications between sisters are recognized by the test words
which are 'Pi - Pi'; and the answer; - Tau -', used at the close of the letter.
The complete cipher, Pi Tau Pi, signifies Alpha Chi Omega. Pi, Penta, represents
the five letters of Alpha and Omega. Tau, Tres, represents the three letters of
Chi.
Our official grip is the clasp which I will now show you. She
turns to Iris who receives and returns the grip in demonstration while Eunomia
speaks.
Little fingers interlocked; the thumb on the second knuckle; the forefinger
or the wrist. The grip should be covered with two hands. Pressures, one long,
two short, one long. Answer, two short, two long.
In conducting formal meetings, the Chair is addressed by her Greek name,
Pretanis, and is saluted by a special sign which is made thus: Eunomia
demonstrates and says, "Pretanis" as she gives the sign. The
sign is made by extending the index and middle fingers of the hand to a straight
position with the ring and little finger folded down across the palm and covered
by the thumb. The salute is given by placing the side edge of the index finger
above the eyebrow line of the eye. Middle and index finger are thus extended
diagonally across the forehead above the eye. Eunomia
demonstrates the formation of the sign and giving of the salute as she
speaks.
In voting, the formal sip is the right hand over the heart. Eunomia
demonstrates.
Our colors, scarlet and olive green, symbolize for us many phases of life.
Scarlet brings visions of love, strength, good cheer and happiness. We see in it
the flicker of the hearth fire and the glow of the flame, the very blood
pulsating in our veins, It suggests the active and aggressive. On the other
hand, green typifies the passive qualities, and in its contemplation, we think
of quietude, infinity and things eternal. The combination of these two is
symbolic of complete existence.
If the chapter feels that a rest period is necessary during the ceremony,
Eunomia may give a signal at this point for everyone to sit; but she continues
to stand.
EUNOMIA: There is a legend concerning our flower, the red
carnation, which explains its significance to our Fraternity.
Eunomia picks up the Ritual of Alpha Chi Omega, opens it to the "Legend
of the Red Carnation" and reads with feeling:
The Legend of the Red Carnation
In days of old, Greek gods and goddesses dwelt in the lofty heights of Mount
Olympus. There was a valley guarded by blue hills rising up to meet the heavens
with a floor carpeted by twining vines, eternally green. Rising from this valley
were flowers of many shades, but of scarlet there were none.
In this valley dwelt a maiden. All of the graces were present at her birth,
each bestowing a special gift. She was thus endowed with gentleness of manner,
kindness of heart, nobility of soul, loveliness of spirit, and clarity of mind.
Although she was well-loved, in time the maiden became discontent with the
confinement of her surroundings..
In the distance, towering above the valley's blue hills, stood the Mountain
of Light, and the maiden, gazing at its mystical radiance, found the
determination to leave the valley in search of new horizons. She set forth
toward the mountain to attain her goal, but she soon found herself in the Valley
of Strife. She was surrounded by others who had stumbled in their efforts to
reach the heights and were hindered on all sides by unforeseen obstacles.
But the maiden, mindful of her fellow travelers, helped them regain their
foothold and shielded them with her love and devotion. Thus, through her noble
deeds, she completed her journey through the Valley of Strife and found herself
ascending the Mountain of Light.
When she reached the pinnacle of the Mountain, she was greeted by the
beautiful sound of lyres, signaling that she had reached her highest aspiration.
Hera, the protectress of womankind, addressed her, saying, "Oh Seeker of
the Heights, you have reached your goal and have given much to others along the
way. Your deeds are deserving of praise and honor and shall serve as an example
for others. From this day forward, you shall be known as the High Priestess in
all my earthly temples. And the name of the High Priestess was Admete.
Eunomia looks toward the throne and gestures with her left hand toward
Admete.
At that very moment, a new flower sprang up along the paths traveled by the
maiden; a flower of scarlet petals cradled in a sturdy green stem and graced by
slender leaves. The world rejoiced at this gift, for this flower, known as the
red carnation, carried a message of brightness and served as an illustration of
everything that is noble-good, and true. Only through deeds of worthiness could
such a gift be given, and, to this day, the red carnation inspires us and
reminds us of hope that is ever green and love that never fails.
Eunomia closes the Ritual of Alpha Chi Omega and lays it on the table.
EUNOMIA: Initiates, please kneel, while upon your head I place
this garland, a symbol of our never-ending sisterhood and a heritage from the
maiden, who, daring to seek her aspirations, achieved the heights.
Eunomia places a wreath on each initiate's head. She is assisted by Iris who
follows her down the lines of initiates and hands the wreaths to Eunomia. Iris
carries the wreaths hanging from one arm and returns to the table for more
wreaths as needed. While the wreaths are being distributed, Euterpe softly plays
"The Song of the Third Golden Key." After all wreaths have been
distributed, Eunomia and Iris return to behind the table.
Remember well the lesson in the 'Legend of the Red Carnation' that the
deepest meaning in life comes from giving of yourself. To preserve it in our
memories, we have set aside a special day to be of service to others. It is
observed on the first day of March and is called Hera Day, coinciding with the
Heraea when the first ancient Greek festivals were celebrated. On this day, let
each one of you share her talent for the happiness and wellbeing of others as
did the maiden of long ago.
Arise. Eunomia should
pause until all initiates are standing. Your path leads again to the
Golden Throne and to the fulfilment of your desires.
Sixth Formation
As Euterpe plays the ‘Processional and Greeting to Hera,’ Iris turns the
initiates in their places to face toward the throne. Once the initiates are
facing the throne, Iris nods toward the line of chapter members in front of the
throne, and upon this cue, this line turns to its right arid members walk slowly
in a counter-clockwise direction until the head of the line reaches the middle
of the Second Hall. Upon movement of the line in front of the throne, the line
in front of the Second Hall turns to its right and chapter members walk slowly
in a counter-clockwise direction with the last person in the line stopping at
the middle of the Second Hall. Thus a "U" is formed by the two lines
in back of the group of initiates.
Iris and Eunomia stand behind the group of initiates. Dike carrying the Bond
Book, and Eirene, carrying the tray or pillow with the badges, advance to the
altar on which Eirene places the tray. When all are in place, the soloist sings
the "Greeting to Hera."
ADMETE: The deepest thought of Fraternity is its oneness, and this
we must not mar. From this time forward, may our temple be strengthened by the
addition of another life of undivided loyalty, love and achievement. Together
let us stand as on Olympus, our feet fixed in the dwelling place of beauty,
peace and truth. Treasure the Golden Precepts unfolded to you by the Hours, and
remember that the deepest joy in life comes from giving of yourself.
Your journey is over, and you have learned much on the way. We have bestowed
upon you the gilt of Fraternity, and you truly have become a sister in Alpha Chi
Omega. It is with confidence in your worthiness to wear the lyre that I take
this emblem and give it into your keeping.
When Admete says, "As you take this emblem..." Eirene takes the
tray or pillow with the badges from the altar and stands near Hestia. Iris moves
forward to stand near Hebe. Hesria hands the badge to Admete as Dike reads each
name from the Bond Book. Admete repeats the following each time she hands a
badge to Iris or the initiated Alpha Chi Omega relative or significant alumna if
participating who then pin on the badge.
As you take this emblem from my hand. place it over her heart.
Admete then repeats the following to each individual initiate as the badge is
pinned on.
I give the lyre into your keeping.
After all badges have been presented, Dike and Eirene replace the Bond Book
and empty tray or pillow on the altar, and they, along with Iris, move to stand
with Eunomia behind the group of initiates. Admete then speaks.
The lyre is the visible symbol of our Fraternity to the Outer World. Worn
with a genuine understanding of its true significance, it becomes our most
treasured emblem, an enduring inspiration for the attainment of our goals.
In the name of Hera, I greet you as one of her followers, and welcome you as
a sister in the Bond of Alpha Chi Omega.
Seventh Formation
The ‘Song of Welcome’ is played through once by Euterpe as the line of
chapter members forming the "U" move to close this shape into a circle
enclosing the group of initiates. They stand in place until Euterpe is finished
with playing the song through once. Then they raise their left arms, holding the
bottom of the backend of their scarves, to the right shoulder of the chapter
members next to them, and stepping with their right foot and rising slightly on
the ball of that foot, they begin the dance. The circle continues to move in a
counter-clockwise direction with the rising steps in time to the music until
both verses have been sung. The circle then stops and remains in place with
their arms extended until the grip has been given to each initiate. Euterpe
continues to play the ‘Song of Welcome’ until the grip has been given to all
initiates.
At the start of the dance, Iris and the Hours move through the lines of
initiates, each taking a row, and congratulate the initiates and give them the
grip, explaining the response. When this exchange is concluded. Iris moves to
stand behind the initiates with the Hours in a row behind her. Euterpe finishes
playing the ‘Song of Welcome’ and Admete then speaks.
ADMETE: Let us now close our rites according to tradition by the
formation of our beloved lyre, within which we rejoice to set our newly acquired
jewels.
Eighth Formation
Euterpe plays the ‘Processional and Greeting, to Hera’ as the lyre is
being formed. The circle opens at the middle of me top, the end in front of the
throne, and the sides curve to form the shape of a lyre with the base of the
lyre left open. Iris instructs the initiates to place their right hands on the
left shoulder on the initiate in front of them and leads them in a line to the
base of the triangle, passing to the left side of Eunomia. She leads them to
form the base of the lyre, facing the throne, in as many rows as necessary to
accommodate the number of initiates. She leaves a space in the middle of the
rows at the base, and after arranging all the initiates, Iris moves to stand in
this middle position.
Once the sides of the lyre have been formed and the initiates and Iris. are
in place at the base of the lyre, Admete leaves her throne and moves forward to
take the place representing the center jewel, love. She walks through the center
of the Hours by having Eirene step Dike behind as she passes through. Eirene
returns to her center position, and the Hours then rotate to their right to turn
and face the base of the lyre, i.e. the initiates. They raise their scarves by
the bottom end to the right shoulder of the Hour beside them with Dike raising
hers as well to form the scroll. Hebe and Hestia leave their places after Admete
has descended from the throne and take their places as the upper, outer jewels.
Chapter members arms are at their sides. Euterpe finishes playing the ‘Processional
and Greeting to Hera, and Admere speaks.
ADMETE: Let us together sing praises to our living lyre.
Chapter members in the sides of the lyre raise the bottom of the backend of
their scarves to the right shoulder of the chapter member next to them, and the
first two verses of the ‘Song of the Living Lyre’ are sung. Hebe and Hestia
do not raise their scarves. Admete then speaks.
ADMETE: As you go forth from this temple, each of you bears a
flaming torch, kindled at the fire of Fraternal love. May we carry with us into
each new day the light of new faith, of firmer purpose and of higher ideals. If
you would keep this flame forever bright, remember to give unceasingly of the
great love which you have received. Thus giving, you will someday reach the
Heights.
Euterpe plays and the last verse of the ‘Songof the Living Lyre’ is sung
while the disbanding occurs. Once the verse has been sung, Euterpe continues to
play the song softly until all have left the room. Chapter members drop their
arms to their sides after the song has been sung.
Admete leaves the room first by walking through the middle spot in the base
of the lyre which is opened by Iris stepping back and to the side. Once Admete
has left. Iris leads the initiates behind her, They are followed by the Hours
and the chapter members in the sides of the lyre walking in a double line. All
use the same slow step used throughout the ceremony with the right hand on the
left shoulder of the chapter member in front.
This Concludes the Initiation ceremony. Initiates and chapter members, led by
Admete march quietly to a place where gowns are removed and all other costume
and equipment properties are collected by the Warden and her assistants and then
immediately returned to safe keeping in the locked storage area. The initiates
should disrobe in a separate room, and Iris should remain with them until they
are dressed again. At that time art appropriate celebration for all initiates
should occur.