Due to it's secretive nature, the Order of the Arrow runs into many questions by members and non-members alike. Below are some common questions asked by both members and non-members.

What is the OA?

How can I becmome a member of the OA?

Why does the OA keep most of it's activities secret?

What is a chapter, how is the OA organized?

How do I get involved

What is a Lodge Chief?

Question: Why does the OA keep most of it's activities secret?
Answer: First of all, the Order of the Arrow is not a secret organization. Rather, we recognize that an aura of mystery not only stimulated interest in the Lodge, but also helps new members feel proud of an accomplishment that is not achieved by every Scout.

Most candidates recieve less benefits from the induction if they know about the induction in advance. Knowledge lowers expectancy, dulls the edge of experience. In other words, you hurt candidates by telling them about the "Ordeal." Parents should feel free to discuss the experiences their children had at the Ordeal, after it's completion.

The Order of the Arrow is happy to share any pertinent information about our activities with legitimately interested individuals. For more information, one should contact the Cahuilla Lodge Adviser.

Question: What is a chapter, and how is the OA organized?
Answer: The chapter is the most local form of the Order, relating to the Boy Scout District. This is where most members of the OA attend meetings. There are also some small functions that scouts attend within the chapter. The next level up is the Lodge, which in Cahuilla's case serves the California Inland Empire Council (Riverside and San Bernadino Counties). The lodge organizes most of the OA members events including Fall Fellowship and the three Ordeals. Once a year, NOAC, The National Order of the Arrow Conference. For more information on the OA Organization, go to the national website: www.oa-bsa.org.

Question: How do I get involved?
Answer: Getting involved is easy. There are mahy positions in which you can serve, events in which you can attend, and ways to have fun. Contact your Chapter chief, (visit the Chapter Officer List if you don't have their email address) or if you can't reach them, our Lodge Chief.

Question: What is a Lodge Chief?
Answer: A Lodge Chief is the lead youth postition in the Order of the Arrow. Since our organtiation is led by our youth members, the position is critical for the Order of the Arrow Lodge to run smoothly. The Lodge Chief, along with other elected officers, plan and guide our groups daily and annual operations.

Even more locally, you may find local youth leaders divided by chapters, normally one per council district. Because of our Lodge's size and geography, chapters help carry our our Lodge's Mission and Purpose.