Full Publication - Girl Scouts of Southern Illinois

Girl Scouts of Southern Illinois
Corporate Service Center
Regional Service Center
#4 Ginger Creek Parkway
4201 S. Water Tower Place
Glen Carbon, IL 62034
Mt. Vernon, IL 62864
619-692-0692 • 800-345-6858
618-242-5079 • 800-345-6858
www.riverbluffs.org • gsrbc@riverbluffs.org
Ceremony Basics
Following is a brief description of the different types of
ceremonies in Girl Scouting. More information can be found in
Ceremonies in Girl Scouting for sale in the council equipment shop,
found in the reference section of the council resource library, or
from your Service Unit Director.
OPENING & CLOSING CEREMONIES:
Simple ceremonies to begin and end a
meeting or program.
INVESTITURE: A girl or adult joining for
the first time is welcomed into Girl Scouting, makes the Girl Scout Promise, and
receives the Girl Scout membership pin.
REDEDICATION: Invested Girl Scouts
rededicate themselves to living by the Girl
Scout Promise and Law.
BRIDGING: Girls are welcomed into the
next level of Girl Scouting by the next
program level.
FLY-UP: A bridging ceremony for
Brownies who are about to become Juniors.
They receive Brownie Wings and their Girl
Scout pin.
THINKING DAY: A ceremony to celebrate
the birthday of Lord and Lady Baden Powell,
founders of the Boy Scout and Girl Guide
movements, on February 22. Girl Scouts and
Girl Guides worldwide take time to think and
learn about each other. Ceremony often
includes presentation of the World Association Pin and a donation to the Juliette Low
World Friendship Fund.
GIRL SCOUT WEEK: Celebrates the
birthday of the Girl Scout organization the
week of March 12, starting with a religious
or spiritual ceremony such as Girl Scout
Sunday. Other events can include honoring
historical women of the community or a Girl
Scout reunion.
SCOUT’S OWN: An inspirational
ceremony planned and carried out by the
girls to express their feelings about a
chosen topic.
COURT OF AWARDS: A ceremony to
recognize girls’ accomplishments. They
are presented with the insignia they have
earned. Others who have helped the
troop/group may be recognized and
thanked at this time.
FLAG: Patriotic ceremonies that are often
part of other ceremonies. Girls recite the
Pledge of Allegiance in the presence of a
flag and salute, observing proper flag
etiquette at all times.
FOUNDER’S DAY: A ceremony to
celebrate Juliette Low’s birthday on
October 31, and to remember the role she
played in the development of Girl Scouting
in the United States.
CAMPFIRE: An excellent way to link the
environment to Girl Scout ceremonies.
Often held on the first night of camp as a
welcoming and as a celebration on the final
night of camp.
1
Some Common Symbols and What They Could Represent
Archway
the entering of a different atmopshere or phase
Lighted Candle
symbol of individual light and
consequently of the individual
Bridge
Pebble
a crossing over
nature
Dove and Olive Branch
peace
Planting a tree
conservation, a living dedication to someone or
something
Eagle
Courage
Quiet Sign
silence
Feather
Nature
Signing your name
your own identity, personal
involvement, support
Flag
the official banner of
something
String
Friendship Circle
the unbroken chain of friendship with Girl Scouts
and Girl Guides all over the worled.
Handshake
hello, welcome
the human line binding all humanity
Swaying from side to side
everyone agreeing to the same thought
Trefoil
the three parts of the Promise
Wishing Well
hopes and dreams
USE OF COLORS
Many visual artists and poets have their own ideas of the meanings of different colors. Encourage girls to brainstorm
how colors make them feel and how they can use meaningful colors in their words and descriptions. What color is
summer represented by? Spring? Hope? Strength? Use this exercise to decide on a color scheme for a ceremony.
2
Ceremony Worksheet
Name of Ceremony: _________________________________________________________
Purpose or Theme: _________________________________________________________________________
Date of Ceremony: ______________________________ Time: ______________________________________
Place of Ceremony: _________________________________________________________________________
Length of Ceremony: ________________________________________________________________________
Who will attend? ___________________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________________________________
How will the ceremony begin? ________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________________________________
What songs, poems, quotations will be included? _________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________________________________
What will the main section consist of? __________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________________________________
What formations will be used in presenting the ceremony? __________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________________________________
How will the ceremony end? _________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________________________________
Who will do each part? ______________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________________________________
Who will record the ceremony for your troop’s activities? ___________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________________________________
What decorations or props do we need? _________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________________________
Who will bring the needed items?
Item: _______________________________________ Who will bring: ______________________________
__________________________________________________________________ _____________________________________________
____________________________________________ ____________________________________________
Will refreshments be served? What will they be? Who will bring them? What quantity? Cost?
___________________________________________________________________________________________
____________________________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________________________
When will a rehearsal be scheduled for the ceremony? _____________________________________________
3
Opening Ceremonies
General Openings
Any of the following ideas would be
appropriate for either an opening or
closing. Two or three could be combined if
a longer ceremony is desired.
1. Flag ceremony.
2. Reciting of Promise and Law.
3. Have each girl give an example of how they
observed the Girl Scout slogan ”Do a Good
Turn Daily” since the last meeting.
4. Sing a song.
5. Recite a poem.
6. Friendship circle with linked hands.
7. Discuss a symbol of Girl Scouting and its
meaning:
Membership Pin • The Uniform
World Trefoil Pin • Trefoil Shape
World Thinking Day Symbol
8. Talk about how the program helps us live up
to our Girl Scout motto: “Be Prepared.”
Spirit Candle
This candle represents the spirit of Girl Scouting. It
burns throughout our meeting to represent the
friendship and fun we enjoy together.
Look to the flame and see its challenge to you:
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
The Girl Scout Garden Ceremony
First, plant five rows of peas:
Preparedness
Politeness
Promptness
Perseverance
Prayer
Then, three rows of squash:
Squash gossip
Squash criticism
Squash indifference
Next, plant ten rows of lettuce:
Let us be faithful
Let us be friendly
Let us be courageous
Let us be thrifty
Let us be unselfish
Let us be courteous
Let us be loyal
Let us be useful
Let us be truthful
Let us love one another
No garden, of course, would be complete without
turnips, so....
Turn up for meetings
Turn up with a new idea
Turn up for training
Turn up with real determination
and best of all, Turn up with a smile!!!
... do more than belong... Participate.
... do more than care... Help.
... do more than believe... Practice.
... do more than be fair... Be kind.
... do more than forgive... Forget.
... do more than dream... Work.
... do more than teach... Inspire.
... do more than live... Grow.
... do more than be friendly... Be a friend.
... do more than give... Serve.
Bless you for being just who you are: Girls are great!
4
Closing Ceremonies
Good Night Circle
Form a circle, crisscross arms right over left and hold hands.
Everyone remains silent while one person makes a silent wish and
squeezes the hand of the girl on her right. The squeeze proceeds
around the circle to the person who started it. When she received
it she lets go of the other girls’ hands, makes the Girl Scout sign,
and says, “Good night, Girl Scouts.”
Girl Scout Out
Magic Tunnel
When hats and coats are on, the Girl
Scouts stand in two lines facing each
other, raising their arms and holding
hands to make an arch. The two farthest
from the door go under the arch, then
the next two, etc. The tunnel diminishes
until the last two go.
Stand in circle with a girl in the center. Spell
G-I-R-L-S-C-O-U-T. Girl in center touches the
top of a head as each letter is said. The three
girls that get the letters O, U, T leave the
circle and line up by the door or are given
permission to leave with their designated
adult. The remaining girls close up the space
and the spelling begins again. Keep repeating
until all are eliminated.
Clean-Up
(Good for young girls)
The children skip about the room arranging everything neatly, singing to the tune of “London
Bridge.”
Weave the magic in and out, in and out, in and out,
Weave the magic in and out, we are Girl Scouts.
We have tidied everything, everything, everything,
We have tidied everything, we are Girl Scouts.
Finally, the girls line up before the leader who asks, “Is everything
finished?”
The
The
The
The
children answer: “Everything.”
leader asks: “Is nothing left?”
children answer: “Nothing!”
leader says: “Then be gone!”
(Leader can wave a special “good-bye wand” as girls silently tiptoe out.)
5
Investiture
Ceremonies
INVESTITURE POEM
(from G.S. of Rolling Hills website)
These Girl Scout trefoils in my hand
Upon new members we will bestow,
But first the meaning that the trefoil bears.
The spirit of our Promise we must know,
Three bold leaves the trefoil wears,
Threefold the Promise that it bears,
To serve God and your country dear.
To bring to people hope and cheer
And every day in every way,
The Girl Scout Law to obey.
Simple Girl Scout Daisy Investiture
Flag Ceremony
Girl 1: “Please Stand”
Girl 2: “Pledge Allegiance”
All: “I pledge allegiance…
Girls: Sing “Our Flag”
Leader: Where are the girls who want to be a Girl Scout Daisy?
Girls: Here we are!
Leader: You have agreed that you are ready to make a promise and receive
your pin as Girl Scout Daisies. Let us make that promise together:
“On my honor…”
Assistant: “ (naming girl), as a Girl Scout Daisy would you come forward?
Leader: “Welcome, . Here is your Girl Scout Daisy pin”. She pins girl, give Girl Scout
handshake, “And here is your certificate”. Repeat this for each girl.
Leader: “Now lets sing our Girl Scout Daisy Song”
Leader: Daisy Girl Scouts are named after the founder of Girl Scouting in the United
States, Juliette Gordon Low, whose nickname was “Daisy.” Girls throughout the world make
the same promise (in their own language) and give the same handshake. Tonight we welcome
you and your daughters to the world of Girl Scouting. We will close with a Friendship Circle.
Girls: Form Friendship Circle, sing “Make New Friends,” squeeze etc.
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Girl Scout Daisy Ceremony (From G.S. of Rolling Hills website)
This is a generic ceremony and can be used for Investiture, Rededication,
Bridging or any other ceremony.
The Girl Scout Promise:
On my honor, I will try:
To serve God and my country,
To help people at all times,
And to live by the Girl Scout Law.
Have a girl place the Promise Center. Next, you will recite the Law, one at a time and have a girl
place the color petal around the center.
The Girl Scout Law:
I will do my best to be:
honest and fair (light blue petal)
friendly and helpful (yellow)
considerate and caring (spring green)
courageous and strong (red)
responsible for what I say and do (orange)
and to respect myself and others (purple)
respect authority (magenta)
use resources wisely (green)
make the world a better place, (rose)
and be a sister to every Girl Scout (violet)
Daisy Petal (Flower) Investiture
On a large piece of white poster board, tape or glue a large daisy center of
yellow construction paper. Write your troop number in the center. Make petals
of white construction paper for each girl in the troop. On each petal write a
different girls name from your troop.
Begin the ceremony with a simple flag ceremony have girls bring up flag and say the “Pledge of
Allegiance to the Flag” followed by the singing of a song about America any one
the girls know.
Call each girl by name to come and add her petal to the flower. As each girl comes
forward to attach her petal to the center, welcome her to Girl Scout Daisy Troop
#____ with the Girl Scout handshake and her Beginning Certificate. If a new girl
joins at a later date, her petal may be added.
Variation – use real daisies or silk daisies and have the girls place them in a flower
container with the troop number on it.
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Girl Scout Brownie Pond Investiture
Materials Needed:
Girl Scout Brownie “Pond” (can be constructed from a piece of cardboard covered with foil and
border with greenery, or use a mirror and border with greenery, or use a real one!). Also need
Brownie Pins for each new member. They can be placed on the floor by
the pond. Lay pond on the floor in the middle of the ceremony area. If
desired, new members can be sent outside with the assistant leader. If
new girls stay in the room, they should be on one side of the pond and
the other girls should be on the other. All stand or sit around the
“pond”.
Leader: “Cross your little fingers, stand upon your toes
That’s a bit of magic every Brownie knows
Now we all are standing in a forest glade
Listen very carefully, see the magic made
If the new Brownies have been sent outside, the girls knock on the door
The leader with the troop asks: “Who comes to the Brownie woods?”
Brownies-to-be: “We do.”
Leader: “What do you want?”
Brownies-to-be: “We want to be Girl Scout Brownies.”
The leader may ask why, and the girls may give their own reasons (help them prepare before the
ceremony if you plan on asking). Then they enter and gather around the pond.
At this point you may have a simple dramatization of the Brownie Story by the older Brownies or
the leader may tell or read the story to the girls.
Leader: “Who comes first (or next) to the Magic Pond?”
Co-Leader: (Reads girls names, one by one, alphabetically)
Leader: Turns girls, one by one, while saying:
”Twist me and turn me and show me the elf
I looked in the water and saw _______________”
Girl: Myself!
Leader pins on Brownie Pin, gives the girl the Girl Scout handshake and welcomes
her to Girl Scouting. After each girl receives her pin, The Leader says:
“Uncross your little fingers, down from off your toes
Then the magic goes away, everybody knows.”
Older Brownies can help clean up the “magic” while the leader sings this song:
(Sung to the tune of London Bridge)
“Weave the magic in and out, in and out, in and out
Weave the magic in and out, for we are Brownies
We have tidied everything, everything, everything
We have tidied everything, for we are Brownies.”
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“PAPER DOLL” INVESTITURE CEREMONY
(appropriate for Girl Scout Brownies & Girl Scout Juniors)
Materials: Girl Scout Pins (appropriate for levels)
As each girl says her verse, she stretches out her hand to the next girl to speak, until all the
girls are standing across like paper dolls. Verses may be split according to the number of girls
participating.
Take my hand in friendship, I give to you this day
Let’s look forward to the good times, we will have along the way
Take my hand in helping, other people that we know
The more we give to others, the more that we will grow
Take my hand in learning, to camp on nature’s ground
Enjoying trails and campfires, with new friends that we’ve found
Take my hand in giving, our knowledge of true scouts
To girls we meet and talk to, who have so many doubts
Take my hand in thanking, our leader and our guide
With sincere appreciation, for standing by our side
Take my hand in eagerness, to be a (Brownie or Junior) Girl Scout
We’re proud of who we are, is what we’re going to shout
(In unison):
We give our hands in Promise, to hold our country dear
And abide the Girl Scout Law, each day throughout the year
Girls step forward to say the Girl Scout Promise and receive their Girl Scout pins.
9
RAINBOW CEREMONY
(from G.S. of Rolling Hills website)
Materials: Three white candles to represent the three parts of the Girl
Scout Promise. You may also want additional props to show the colors
representing the Girl Scout Law, such as colored shirts, a drawing made
by the girls, etc.
The Girl Scout Law:
First: This candle represents the Girl Scout’s duty to God (insert your
own deity) as the Creator of all things.
Second: This candle shows love of country and love of people no matter
what nationality, religion, or color of skin.
Third: This candle shows the basic code of the Girl Scout that is the
Girl Scout Law. A Girl Scout lives by this Law.
I WILL DO MY BEST . . .
1- TO BE HONEST AND FAIR: Blue is the color of the sky. A Girl Scout’s honesty and fairness in
dealing with her family, her friends, and her country should be as dependable as the blue of the sky.
2- TO BE FRIENDLY AND HELPFUL: Yellow is the color of the sun. A friendly smile and a
helpful hand can brighten a rainy day.
3- TO BE CONSIDERATE AND CARING: Gold represents the sun’s rays. They shine on
everyone regardless of color, creed or race.
4- TO BE COURAGEOUS AND STRONG: Red is the color of courage and strength. A Girl Scout
duty to help others requires courage to help anyone in trouble and strength to put others first.
5- TO BE RESPONSIBLE FOR WHAT I SAY AND DO: Watching the pink in the changing sky at
sunset gives us a sense of peace and reminds us to responsible with our words and actions.
AND TO ...
6- RESPECT MYSELF AND OTHERS: White is the color of clean falling snow. A Girl Scout
thoughts and deeds should encompass her own beliefs and be sensitive and respectful of the
beliefs of those around her.
7- RESPECT AUTHORITY: Orange represents the sunset. Even the sun must obey nature’s
orders as it rises and sets each day.
8- USE RESOURCES WISELY: Green is the color of nature. We must treat our ecosystem with
care and be thrifty with all our natural resources.
9- MAKE THE WORLD A BETTER PLACE: The color of brown makes us think of animals and how
they depend upon us for love and care. We have to protect and improve their world.
10- BE A SISTER TO EVERY SCOUT: Silver symbolizes a beautiful calm lake, as we think of
our friends, the Girl Scouts around the world.
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Rededicaion
Ceremonies
Investiture & Rededication
In almost all countries and cultures there are ceremonies to mark important
events in life - days of celebration, sad days, joyous days, days on which a
special commitment is made, days that mark an achievement. We as Girl
Scouts also use ceremonies to mark important events and significant days. We
are here to celebrate two such ceremonies:
An Investiture and A Rededication.
Speaker #1: “The green candle stands for our Girl Scout program reminding us that we
have a duty to perform - to instill in our girls the practice of the Girl Scout Promise and
Law. It also means we are not to lose sight of these principles when emotions run high. If
problems arise, we go back and review the purpose and ideals of Girl Scouting, for above all
your thoughts and actions must be for the girls we are serving.”
Speaker #2: “The red candle stands for fire, one of humanity’s greatest blessings, but fire
can also destroy. We can use fire for good or evil. We can be kind and considerate or we can
hurt each other if our fires are uncontrolled.”
Speaker #3: “The blue candle stands for faith and loyalty, our faith in each other and our
loyalty to our beliefs - our love of God, home, and country.”
Speaker #4: “The white candle stands for honesty in thought, word, and deed toward ourselves and others.”
Speaker #5: “The yellow candle stands for sunshine, the sun that warms us all. Just as the
sun warms us, may we in turn spread warmth and friendship to those we meet. Let’s make
Girl Scouting fun for our girls but at the same time not lose sight of the Promise and Law.”
Please stand and join me now in reciting the Girl Scout Promise.
CLOSING
Speaker #1: “As I extinguish the green candle may we with our thoughts and actions always
serve our girls using the Girl Scout Promise and Laws.”
Speaker #2: “As I extinguish the red candle may we be kind and considerate and never
hurtful to each other.”
Speaker #3: “As I extinguish the blue candle may our love of God, home, and country never
be taken away.”
Speaker #4: “As I extinguish this white candle may honesty be the first thought, word,
and deed we use towards ourselves and others.”
Speaker #5: “As I extinguish this yellow candle may the warmth of friendship be with you
to share always.”
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GORP Rededication (From www.scoutingweb.com)
Have you ever wondered what goes into making a Girl Scout?
Well, we have a recipe to make to show you what we’re all about.
1. Girl Scouts come in all colors, from cities and towns,
Every Girl Scout’s a sister no matter what she looks like or how she sounds.
2. Some of us are tall, and some of us are small.
When we get together, size doesn’t matter at all.
3. With our words and our actions, we show that we care,
We try to do our best to be fair and square.
4.
5.
6.
7.
Sometimes we act a little “nuts”, we love to joke and play.
We’d love to put a Girl Scout smile into everyone’s day.
When we get together, we make circles so round.
It’s our never ending friendships to which we are bound.
When we’re planning and working, we just don’t stop,
We keep ourselves busy; all around we will pop.
Add M&Ms to the bowl
Add pretzel sticks and marshmallows
Add Chex cereal to the mix
Add nuts to the bowl
Add Cheerios to the mix
Add popcorn
We respect all God’s creatures, if they’re big or they’re small,
The earth is our home, and there is room here for all.
Add Goldfish Crackers or Animal Crackers.
8.
It was 1912 when Juliette Low started us off,
And like the girls back then, we’re just “chips off the old block”
Add butterscotch, chocolate and white chocolate chips.
9. We get a “kick” out of learning and doing new things,
And a “kick” out of helping others, and spending time with friends.
Add Kix cereal to the bowl
10. When we were (Previous grade level) we were fresh, new and rare,
But now we’re (Next grade level) and have experience to share.
Added together, the number of years our girls have spent in Girl Scouting comes to ___.
Add raisins, counting out loud, or each girl can contribute the number of raisins that
represent the number of years she has been in Girl Scouts
11. Now we stir to the left and we stir to the right,
We mix it together with all of our might.
We welcome our troop to another great year,
And hope the memories they make, they will always hold dear.
Now that our recipe is complete, we look upon what we have
created. Each of the ingredients went into our recipe separately, just
like each of the girls came into the troop separately. As the ingredients mix together to form one dish, our girls mix together to form a
troop. But even as we look upon our mix, we can still see each ingredient
as separate and unique. Our girls bring each of their own unique talents
and characteristics to our troop to make it what it is.
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INVESTITURE & REDEDICATION CEREMONY
(from G.S. of Rolling Hills website)
Materials: 1. A candle for each member 2. Three tall candles (to represent GS Promise)
3. 10 candles (to represent GS Law) 4. Matches 5. Membership pins (for investiture)
Leader:
All around us is darkness. I light this candle to represent the flame of sisterhood
that burns in the heart of every Girls Scout and it is no longer dark. Although this
is a tiny flame and it lights only a small area, all of us can see it. Each one of us
knows it is here and could find the way to it. Though tiny, it is a beacon to every
one of us. This tiny light can grow, be multiplied and spread if someone would come,
to join it. (Two girls light their candles from the leader’s candle.)
#1 Girl Scout: Now the flame is brighter, lights a bigger area and we can see
more than before. But this is only a beginning for once there is light and people
who are willing to share it, it will grow. As it is shared, it will become bigger and bigger until all who want
it can have the light. (Girls light candles from each other until all are lighted.)
#2 Girl Scout: See how fast the light can spread. Notice how well you can see now. This light makes it
possible for us to see our friends, see their smiles and their actions. Other people can see our light.
#3 Girl Scout: As this light brightens our group, so does our light as true Girl Scouts brighten our own
lives and the lives of others. The smallest light held by the least of us is important to the whole world.
#4 Girl Scout: Now I will light the three candles for the three parts of our promise with the same tiny
light from which so much light has grown. Watch the candles take up the flame to shine on all of us as
we rededicate ourselves by saying the Girl Scout Promise. (all members repeat the Promise)
Girl Scout Promise:
On my honor, I will try:
1) To Serve God, and my country,
2) To help people at all times,
3) And to live by the Girl Scout Law.
(Girls come forward, one at a time, to recite one of the ten parts of the Girl Scout Law and to light a
candle which represents the part)
Girl Scout Law:
I will do my best:
1) To be Honest and Fair
2) Friendly and helpful
3) Considerate and Caring
4) Courageous and Strong
5) Responsible for what I say and do
6) Respect myself and others
7) Respect authority
8) Use resources wisely
9) Make the world a better place
10) Be a sister to every Girl Scout
Leader: This pin tells everyone you are a Girl Scout (attach pin to girl’s clothing). Wear it
proudly (give the Girl Scout handshake to the new member.) Welcome to (level) Troop #
(Everyone blows out candles.)
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GS Candlelight Rededication
Setting: It is dark, except for 11 lit candles.
Girls begin this ceremony as observers.
(Girl Scout 1): We know our Promise and our Law. We have recited it many times over the years. We may
have questioned its importance in our life or have forgotten its value.
*Part 1: Each Girl Scout blows out one candle after speaking her line*
(Girl Scout 2): But what would the world be like if we stopped serving God and our country?
(Girl Scout 3): What would the world be like if we each stopped helping people in need?
(Girl Scout 4): What would the world be like if we each stopped living by the Girl Scout Law?
(Girl Scout 5): What would the world be like if we chose to be dishonest and self-serving?
(Girl Scout 6): What would the world be like if we were unfriendly and unhelpful?
(Girl Scout 7): What would the world be like if we chose to be inconsiderate and uncaring?
(Girl Scout 8): What would the world be like if we were fearful and weak?
(Girl Scout 9): What would the world be like if we not responsible for what we said or did?
(Girl Scout 10): What would the world be like if we didn’t respect myself, others, or authority?
(Girl Scout 11): What would the world be like if we didn’t use our resources wisely?
(Girl Scout 12): What would the world be like if we didn’t make the world a better place?
(Blow out last candle.) If we choose this path, our world becomes very dark.
(Pause) *Begin Part 2, Each Scout re-lights one candle after speaking her line*.
(Girl Scout 2): But I, (Name), make a commitment today to serve God and my country.
(Girl Scout 3): But I, (Name), make a commitment today to help people at all times,
(Girl Scout 4): But I, (Name), make a commitment today to live by the Girl Scout Law.
(Girl Scout 5): But I, (Name), make a commitment today to be honest and fair.
(Girl Scout 6): But I, (Name), make a commitment today to friendly and helpful.
(Girl Scout 7): But I, (Name), make a commitment today to be considerate and caring.
(Girl Scout 8): But I, (Name), make a commitment today to be courageous and strong.
14
(Girl Scout 9): But I, (Name), make a commitment today to be responsible for what I say and do.
(Girl Scout 10): But I, (Name), make a commitment today to respect myself, others, and authority.
(Girl Scout 11): But I, (Name), make a commitment today to use my resources wisely.
(Girl Scout 12): But I, (Name), make a commitment today to make the world a better place.
(All): “May our lights shine and may we brighten our world”
Wishboats Option to Candlelight Rededication
Have the girls make a wishboat of
their choice by folding paper or using
natural materials from the out-of-doors.
This could be as simple as a piece of bark.
Please do not remove any living thing to
construct this. Put a birthday candle on the
“boat” and float it. Please remember to
retrieve the “boats” so as not to litter. End
the ceremony as follows:
All: When’er You Make a Promise All: Set
wishboats afloat.
Trefoil Candle Light Rededication (All Levels)
Materials needed: table, 3 large candles and 10 small candles in holders; matches, a wooden or
cardboard Trefoil, a Girl Scout pin for each girl to receive one (unpinned for convenience).
The Leader begins the ceremony by talking about the meaning of the investiture or rededication. This can be done as follows:
Leader: “The three candles represent the Girl Scout Promise. This candle that I light shall
shine as a symbol that Girl Scouts are true to God and their country.” (She lights first candle.)
“May the light of the second candle shine as a symbol that a Girl Scouts greatest desire is to
serve (lights second candle) and may the light of the third candle shine as a symbol that Girl
Scouts are true to their ideals as interpreted by the Girl Scout Law.” (Light third candle)
The Trefoil, which is the Girl Scout emblem, lies before you. We will place before it ten
candles representing the Girl Scout Law.”
15
(Ten girls, chosen previously, come up to the table. Each recites her part of the Girl Scout Law, one by
one. Each girl takes one of the small candles, lights it from a large candle, and as she replaces it in the
holder…recites the part of the Girl Scout Law assigned to her.)
(The girls to be invested/rededicated are brought forward to the leader by other troop members. If more
than 4 or 5 girls are to be invested/rededicated as one time, it is advisable to have the girls just step
forward from the horseshoe while the leader moves from one girl to another for the actual pinning.)
Leader: “Do you know what it means when you say ‘On on my Honor’?””
Girl/Girls: “Yes.” (girls may answer in their own words)
Leader: “On your honor, will you try to Serve God, your country, and mankind, and to live by the Girl
Scout Law?”
Girl/Girls: “Yes, I will.”
(The girl/girls then make the Girl Scout Promise while both she/they and the leader give the Girl Scout
sign. The girl rededicating herself will preface the Girl Scout Promise with the words, “In rededication,
on my honor I will…” Girls being invested for the first time use only the words of the Girl Scout Promise.)
The leader and assistant leader then pin the Girl Scout pin on each girl and shake her hand using the
Girl Scout handshake.
Leader: “This pin tells everyone that you are a Girl Scout. I know that you will wear it proudly.”
Leader: “Girl Scouts, may the three gold leaves the Trefoil wears and the three-fold message that it
bears give you, as you start your Scouting, the feeling that you are entering in a comradeship that will
bring you joy as you work together, play together, and seek together. Today in every land this Trefoil
emblem points the way to brotherhood, friendliness, and good citizenship.”
The rededicated/invested girls step back into the horseshoe and the entire Troop repeats the Girl
Scout Promise and sings “When E’re You Make A Promise.
Candle Wick Rededication Ceremony
Materials: A table with ten small candles and one large candle.
Leaders and girls stand in a horseshoe.
LEADER: (light large candle)
A candle’s but a simple thing
It starts with just a bit of string.
Yet dipped and dipped with patient hand,
It gathers wax upon the strand
Until complete, and gleaming bright,
It gives at last a lovely light.
CO-LEADER: “This first large candle represents the spirit of Girl Scouting, the Girl Scout Promise.”
1st GIRL: “Let us now say the Girl Scout Promise.” (She leads them in the Girl Scout Promise.)
2nd GIRL: “Let us now sing (have girls pick an appropriate song) . (She leads them in song.)
3rd GlRL: (Lights 1st small candle) “I WILL DO MY BEST TO BE HONEST”
16
4th GIRL: (Lights seconnd small candle) Recites 2nd part of Law.
5-10 GIRL: Continues until all candles are burning and recites the appropriate part of the Law.
LEADER:
Life is like that bit of string
Each deed we do a simple thing
Yet day-by-day, if on Life’s strand
We work with patient heart and hand.
It gathers joy, makes dark days bright..
And gives at last a lovely light.
SAMPLE REDEDICATION #2
All sit in a circle, with a table in the middle with ten candles. You may find it helpful to use 3x5 index
cards for girls’ parts.
1st GIRL:
“Let us repeat together the Girl Scout Promise.” (All stand, when finished be seated.)
2nd GIRL:
3rd GIRL:
LIGHTING 1st CANDLE - “I will do my best to be honest.”
“What is honest? It is to be truthful in everything you say and do.”
4th GIRL:
5th GIRL:
LIGHTING 2nd CANDLE – “I will do my best to be fair.”
“What is fair? It is treating other people the way you want to be treated.”
6th GIRL:
7th GIRL:
LIGHTING 3rd CANDLE - “I will do my best to help where I am needed.”
“What is helping where you are needed? It is finding out what others need, and doing what you
can to show them that you care.”
8th GIRL:
9th GIRL:
LIGHTING 4th CANDLE - “I will do my best to be cheerful.”
“What is being cheerful? It is looking for the bright side, even on gloomy & unhappy days.”
10th GIRL:
11th GIRL:
LIGHTING 10th CANDLE - “I will do my best to be friendly and considerate.”
“What is being friendly and considerate? It is to be thoughtful of others. It is being the kind
of friend you would like to have.”
12th GIRL:
13th GIRL:
LIGHTING 6th CANDLE - “I will do my best to be a sister to every Girl Scout.”
“What does it mean to be a sister? It means to think of all Girl Scouts everywhere, not as
strangers, but as friends you haven’t met.
14th GIRL:
15th GIRL:
LIGHTING 7th CANDLE - “I will do my best to respect authority.”
“What does it mean to respect authority? It means to listen to people who are responsible for
us and follow their directions.”
16th GIRL:
17th GIRL:
LIGHTING 8th CANDLE - “I will do my best to use resources wisely.”
“How can we use resources wisely? We can learn not to waste what we have.”
18th GIRL:
19th GIRL:
LIGHTING 9th CANDLE – “I will do my best to protect and improve the world around me”
“What does -it mean to protect and improve the world around me? It means to help preserve
the world around us and to help make it a better place.”
20th GIRL:
LIGHTING 10th CANDLE – “I will do my best to show respect for myself and others through
my words and actions.”
“What does it mean to show respect for myself and others? It means to do your very best in
the way that you treat others.”
21st GIRL:
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Dime Rededication Ceremony -- Contributed by Debbee DeWitt
We have something we want to give each of you girls tonight - A bright, shiny new dime!
Now, a dime doesn’t do much by itself. You have to put it with something in order for it to be useful.
Put 25 cents with it and you have enough for an emergency phone call.
Put 40 cents with it and you might have enough to buy a candy bar or a pack of gum.
You can save more dimes, put it all in the bank and let it make more money in interest.
You could take this dime home, throw it in a dresser drawer and not use it at all.
You could even lose it before you get home!
Now, I want you to tell me, how many pennies does it take to equal this one dime?
Right, it takes 10 pennies - 10 very equal and important parts. Well when you take the 10 parts of the
Girl Scout Law and add it all together, it equals Girl Scouting!
I will do my best to be
honest and fair
friendly and helpful
considerate and caring
courageous and strong, and
responsible for what I say and do,
and to
respect myself and others
respect authority
use resources wisely
make the world a better place, and
be a sister to every Girl Scout
because.. .. .. .. WE ARE GIRL SCOUTS!!!
Investiture/Rededication (Girl Scout Junior)
Materials needed: 4 small candles, 1 large candle
1st girl:
Welcome to all the girls who are new or returning
to the family of Girl Scouts.
2nd girl (lighting big candle):
Through our promise, Girl Scouts and Girl Guides
kindle the flame of sisterhood around the world.
Our Girl Scout Promise3rd girl (lighting small candle from big one):
On my honor
4th girl:
For honor gives courage, confidence and character.
5th girl (lighting candle as above):
I will try
6th girl:
For seldom is good accomplished without effort
7th girl (lighting candle):
To serve God, my country and mankind
8th girl:
For the fulfillment of the Girl Scout ideal is to
improve the soul and spirit of the American dream
9th girl (lighting candle):
and live by the Girl Scout Law
10th girl:
for the dream is unity through friendship
11th girl:
Now, will you join in saying our Girl Scout Promise?
(New girls are pinned at this point when using
ceremony as investiture.)
12th girl :
We carry these candles in friendship, as symbols of
our Girl Scout Promise. The flames are small but
burn steady and bright. In this manner, each of us in
her heart carries the warm glow of friendship, which
will shine steadily and brightly through our lives.
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Autumn Rededication Ceremony
This ceremony is for Girl Scout Juniors, Girl Scout Cadettes, Girl Scout Seniors, and Girl Scout Ambassadors. It is designed for ten girls and one narrator. The narrator should be someone who reads well.
Materials needed: 1 large candle to symbolize the Girl Scout Promise • 10 smaller candles to
symbolize the Girl Scout Law• Post cards or “leaves” with the girl’s parts (parts of the Girl Scout Law
and parts of the poem “October’s Party”) written on them • a table to hold the candles
The girls will form a horseshoe around the candle table. The narrator stands in the middle or to one
side of the horseshoe.
NARRATOR: Autumn is here. As the leaves turn to goldenrod yellow, earthy browns, and deep crimson,
we put away our summer dreams. Not only is this the season of endings but also a time for new
beginnings. Another school year has begun, football season is upon us, we’re looking forward to cooler
weather and warm fires. This is also the beginning of a new Girl Scout year. It is time for us to, once
again, rededicate ourselves to our Girl Scout Promise and Law.
NARRATOR lights the large candle and says: “ As softly as this candle burns and as gently as a leaf
falls we take this time to quietly and reverently say our Girl Scout Promise:
ALL: Say the Girl Scout Promise together
NARRATOR: Each candle that we light symbolizes a part of our Girl Scout Law. may it burn forever
brightly in our hearts.
* Each girl lights her “Girl Scout Law” candle from the “Girl Scout Promise” candle and says her part of
the Girl Scout Law. As soon as the last candle is lit and the girl has gone back to her place, Girl #1
starts the poem, “October’s Party.” *
1. October gave a party; the leaves by hundreds came.. The chestnuts, oaks and maples and leaves of
every name.
2. The sunshine spread a carpet, and everything was grand
3. Miss Weather led the dancing, Professor Wind the band.
4. The Chestnuts came in yellow, The Oaks in crimson dressed;
the lovely Miss Maple in scarlet looked her best;
5. All bowed to their partners and gaily fluttered by;
6. The sight was like a rainbow falling from the sky.
7. Then, in the rustic hollow, at hide-and-seek they played,
8. the party closed at sundown, and everybody stayed.
9. Professor Wind played louder;
10. They flew along the ground
(The girls need to have this last line memorized. While saying the last line the girls join hands.)
ALL: AND THEN THE PARTY ENDED...IN FRIENDSHIP, HOLDING HANDS !!
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Leader Investiture and Rededication Ceremony
(From Girl Scouts of San Jancinto Council website)
Materials: clear glass container, water, blue and yellow food coloring, candle for each person,
matches
Girl Scouts sometimes wear more than one hat. For instance a girl in a
troop who has been elected to an office, wears one hat as a member of
the troop and a second hat in her elected role. In Girl Scouts one of the
elected roles is that of Patrol Leader. A symbol of the office of Patrol
Leader is the Patrol Leader’s cord. This cord has two gold circles. The
larger one stands for the troop - the smaller one for the patrol. This
shows that the Patrol Leader has a responsibility to both groups.
A Girl Scout leader also serves in a dual responsibility. The BLUE
symbolizes your position as the troop’s manager: in planning with the girls
and helping those plans to a successful conclusion. [add blue food color
into container with water]
The YELLOW symbolizes your commitment to Troop ___, Service Unit ___, Girl Scouts of
River Bluffs Council and Girl Scouts of the U.S.A., and to the World Association of Girl Guides
and Girl Scouts. [add yellow food color to blue, making green]
TOGETHER these colors symbolize Girl Scouting. May the two grow together to support the
girls.
Call new members to come and be pinned with the Girl Scout pin. Have everyone repeat the Girl
Scout Promise.
Thank you for accepting the responsibilities of a troop leader. I would like each of you to take a
candle as they are distributed to take back to your troop. Use it to remind you of our ceremony
today and to rekindle the spark.
The Service Unit Candle
The WAX represents the leaders in the service unit.
The WICK represents the service team
The FIRE represents the administrative team (service unit manager and assistants)
The candle’s fire cannot be lit without the wick. The wick will not burn without the wax. And,
the wax cannot be a candle without the wick or the fire.
So it is with our service unit. The more durable the wax and the stronger the wick, the better
our fire will burn and the glow from our candle will be from all the Girl Scouts in (_____)
service unit!
Please silently make a wish for your service unit and your troop and gently blow it out to be relit
on the day your share your dreams and wishes with the girls in the troop.
May ALL your wishes come true.
20
TREASURE BOX CEREMONY :
INVESTITURE AND REDEDICATION CEREMONY FOR LEADERS
Materials:
LEADER #1
4 Adults as Leaders • 10 Adults as Pearls • Treasure Chest
2 Candles • 10 Large Plastic Pearls
Tonight we are gathered to share in the dedication of our new
and old leaders to the ideas of Girl Scouts.
LEADER #2 At this time, the members of the Service Unit will share with
each other the “Lesson of the Pearls”, found in our discovered treasure chest of Girl
Scouting.
PEARL #1
The first pearl stands for WISDOM. You have shown your joy in exploring wisdom
through Girl Scouting. (Place pearl in treasure chest)
PEARL #2
The second pearl shall symbolize BEAUTY. You are beautiful to your sister Girl Scouts
for you give of yourself. (Place pearl in treasure chest)
PEARL #3
The third pearl is STRENGTH. You are the strength of the future of Girl Scouting. (Place
pearl in treasure chest)
PEARL #4
The fourth pearl will be the symbol of TRUTH. You are the example of truth of the ideas
of Girl Scouting. (Place pearl in treasure chest)
PEARL #5
The fifth pearl will be FIDELITY. You have kept your promise and have affirmed it for
life. (Place pearl in treasure chest)
PEARL #6
The sixth pearl is our symbol for FELLOWSHIP. You have extended the hand of friendship and you have gained the rewards. (Place pearl in treasure chest)
PEARL #7
The seventh pearl is COOPERATION. You are an example of total cooperation and your
many accomplishments reflect your willingness to work in harmony with others. (Place pearl
in treasure chest)
PEARL #8
The eighth pearl will be a symbol for LOYALTY. You are committed to the Law of Girl
Scouting and strive to live by it. (Place pearl in treasure chest)
PEARL #9
The ninth pearl will be for VISION. You can see the future of Girl Scouts and will do
your part to ensure its continued success. (Place pearl in treasure chest)
PEARL #10
The tenth pearl shall stand for SERVICE. You can continue to give of yourself to others
in need. (Place pearl in treasure chest)
LEADER #3 You stand here, a golden link in our chain of green and gold. A chain of friendship that
encircles the globe. Our chain is made strong by your caring, your sharing, and your desire
to be the best that you can be.
LEADER #4 Our wish is for you to explore the many treasures to be found in our chest of pearls.
Remember to always be a golden link in our chain of friendship and let nothing break this
chain of green and gold. Please join me in reciting the Girl Scout Promise.
21
Bridging/Fly-Up
Ceremonies
BRIDGING / FLY-UP (from G.S. of Rolling Hills website)
Flying up/Bridging from Girl Scout Daisy to Girl Scout
Brownie , or from Girl Scout Brownie to Girl Scout Junior
is a special time for your troop. Prepare ahead of time by
making invitations and centerpieces and by planning a
special ceremony signifying unity and friendship.
As each girl says her verse, she stretches out her hand
to the next girl to speak, until all the girls are standing
across the stage (or bridge) linked like paper dolls.
Verses may be split if you have more than seven girls flying up/bridging, and girls who do not
have speaking parts may stand on stage also linked like paper dolls.
Take my hand in friendship
I give to you this day.
Remember all the good times
We had along the way.
Take my hand in thanking
Our leaders and our guides
With sincere appreciation
For standing by our side.
Take my hand in helping
Other people that we know.
The more we give to others,
The more that we will grow.
Take my hand in eagerness
To be an older Girl Scout.
We’re proud to be a fly-up
It’s what we’re going to shout.
Take my hand in learning
To camp on nature’s ground.
Enjoying trails and campfires
With new friends that we have found.
So, take my hand to follow
New Girl Scouting paths in sight.
We’ll join hands with each other
And in friendship we’ll unite.
Take my hand in giving
Our knowledge of true Girl Scouts
To girls we meet and talk to
Who have so many doubts.
(in unison)
We give our thanks in promise
To hold our country dear,
And abide the Girl Scout Law
Each day throughout the year.
Girls step forward to say the Girl Scout Promise and receive pins.
22
Girl Scout Brownie Fly-Up (to Girl Scout Juniors)
A Girl Scout Brownie “flies up” to Girl Scout Juniors in the spring,
and receives her Brownie Wings. If possible, have your fly-up ceremony
with a Girl Scout Junior troop in your Service Unit. Often all age groups
of Girl Scouts are involved, including the parents.
Materials: Order your Brownie Wings ahead of time, also your Girl
Scout pins and Membership Stars and green discs if you plan to present them now. Brown
construction paper, cut to represent stones, or paper bags cut the same way. Write a Girl Scout
Law on each one.
The Girl Scout Brownies sit on one side of the room in a Brownie Ring, and the Girl Scout Juniors sit in
a horseshoe (always make the open end toward the audience) on the other side of the room. Place your
Stepping Stones between the two groups and tape them down to the floor.
Everyone sings “Girl Scouts Together”, found in the Girl Scout Pocket Songbook (or others)
Brownie Leader: You’ve been a Brownie and you’ve earned your wings of sunlight gold. Now you’re ready
to be a Girl Scout Junior, new adventures you’ve been told. (The girls all stand)
Brownie Leader: I would like to present my Girl Scout Brownies their wings; they are ready to fly-up to
the next level of Girl Scouting. As I call your name, would you please come forward? (as they come
forward, pin on their wings).
Bake a Batch of New Brownies
Have the girls design their own “oven” out of a cardboard box, etc, that
is large enough for the new members to fit inside/hide behind.The other
Girl Scouts stand behind the table as “chefs.”
Leader: “Since some of our girls have bridged up to Girl Scout Juniors (or
moved, etc.) we have extra spaces in our Girl Scout Brownie ring.”
1st girl “Yes, what can we do about it?”
2nd girl “I know, let’s whip up some new Girl Scout Brownies.”
All girls “Yes, yes!”
3rd girl “We can look in the handbook for the recipe.”
4th girl “Here it is. To make Girl Scout Brownies we must mix in a few basic ingredients, along with the
GS Promise, and the GS Law.”
5th girl “In a large bowl, cream together 1 cup each of the GS Promise to serve God, my country, and mankind.”
6th girl “To this mixture add 2 cups of honesty and 4 tablespoons of cheerfulness. Mix together until
well blended.”
7th girl “Stir in one cup of thoughtfulness.”
8th girl “Whip together 1/2 cup fairness and 1/2 cup helpfulness and add to the mixture.”
9th girl “Sprinkle over the mixture 2 tablespoons of sisterhood of Girl Scouting and mix well”.
10th girl “Add 1 cup of respect for herself and 1 cup of respect for others.”
11th girl “ Sift together 1/2 cup of a wise use of resources and 6 tablespoons of a promise to protect
and improve the world. Stir into mixture.”
12th girl “In a prepared pan spread the batter evenly. (Quickly put pan in oven so no one sees the girls inside).
13th Girl Bake at a moderate temperature until done”.
Leader: (Ring Bell) “They’re DONE! Open the oven door and have the new Brownies walk out. “Look! A
brand new batch of Gril Scout Brownies.”
23
Multi-Level Bridging Ceremony
Materials needed: 5 Stepping Stones
1.
As the Daisies step over the stepping stones, the Leader says:
·
·
·
·
Stepping stones are for you Daisies,
Cross them while you sing.
Your Daisy days are over now,
Come and join our Brownie ring.
Girls now join the Brownie ring, where they repeat the Girl Scout Promise
and are pinned by a sister Girl Scout or the leader.
·
·
·
·
·
·
·
·
2.
When you were a very young girl
You wore Girl Scout Daisy Blue,
You learned the joy of singing
With Daisy friends so true.
But now that you are older
You will be trying something new,
You will bring along your happy smile
To Brownies we are welcoming you.
The Brownies are in the Brownie Circle and the Bridging Brownies are in the middle.
·
·
Now is the time to say good-bye.
Break the ring and away you’ll fly.
Girl Scout Brownies then cross over the Bridge to Girl Scout Juniors, they repeat the Girl Scout
Promise and are pinned by a sister Girl Scout or the leader. At this time you may also wish to give
the girls their Membership stars and green disc. Brownie Leader: We will now all sing “Make New
Friends”
·
·
·
Now
·
When you were a young girl
You learned through “trying” many things
you are ready for new adventures
As Juniors, your ideas can take wings.
Junior Leader: Each step of Junior Girl Scouting can be filled with fun and adventure. As a
troop, we would like to welcome you.
·
Girl Scout Juniors you’ll be for a few short years.
·
Make the most of each day that goes by.
·
Be cheerful and helpful and do a good turn
·
And greet each Girl Scout with a Hi!
24
The Brownies walk on the stepping stones and enter the horseshoe. With the Brownies facing
the Juniors, the Girl Scout Sign is made and the girls recite the Girl Scout Promise.
Junior Leader: With the help of (Brownie Leader’s Name) we would
like to present our new Juniors with the Girl Scout membership pin.
(pin on Girl Scout Pins).
Juniors cross over the Bridge to Girl Scout Cadettes, they repeat
the Promise and are pinned by a sister Girl Scout or the leader.
·
·
·
·
·
·
When you were a young girl you learned a lot of things
By singing, badge work, and helping others
You learned what happiness you can bring
Now you come to Cadettes ready to take a greater part
In Girl Scouting and your community,
And Cadettes is just the start.
A Leader reads to all:
·
·
·
·
When I hear of young girls who haven’t been a Girl Scout
I think of all the wonders that she has never seen.
We’ve watched you girls grow And marveled at the sight,
Your caring, talents and abilities and using them just right.
Repeat the Girl Scout Promise. Close by the Color Guard retiring
the flags .
25
Court Of Awards
Ceremonies
SAMPLE COURT OF AWARDS (from G.S. of Rolling Hills website) Materials: 1 large green candle • 3 white candle •
Colored candles - 1 each... purple, blue, yellow, orange, red
Leader: Today the girls will receive recognitions they have earned
since _________. A badge is a symbol of something you have done
well enough that you can be prepared to give service or show someone else how to do it (Give girls their awards and have them explain
what they did to earn it.)
Girl Scout #1: I light this candle for the flame of sisterhood that burns in the heart of every Girl
Scout. (light large green candle)
Girl Scout #2: These three candles represent the three parts of the Girl Scout Promise.
Girl Scout #3: On my honor I will try to serve God and my country (light white candle)
Girl Scout #4: To help people at all times (light white candle)
Girl Scout #5: And to live by the Girl Scout Law (light white candle)
Girl Scout #6: The colored candles stand for the (Try-Its, badges, patches, Interest Projects,
Journey Awards, etc) we can earn in Girl Scouting.
Girl Scout #7: We can sing, try a dance, even paint a face. Things to carve, things to print, we can
weave, we can tint. (light purple candle)
Girl Scout #8: It’s people that make the world go round. They are black, yellow, white, red and
golden brown. ‘Tho’ we’re not just the same, understanding is our aim. (light blue candle)
Girl Scout #9: Pitch a tent, hike a hill, heed the campfire’s call. Learn to live with concern and to
share our understanding. We protect our world. (light yellow candle)
Girl Scout #10: We can run, hop, skip, jump and throw a ball. We learn to eat what is good so we
can grow up strong. With well being in mind, we leave troubles behind. (light red candle)
Girl Scout #11: We can learn math, science and technology. We can also learn how to fix a leak,
see how engines run, and fly a plane in the sky. We prepare today for the world of tomorrow. (light
orange candle)
Leader: “Remember that with each new badge, a Girl Scout takes on a new responsibility. A little
more is expected at home, at troop meetings, and in your community. Strive always to be worthy of
the symbols you wear and wear them with pride. Congratulations!”
26
B-A-D-G-E-S COURT OF AWARDS (from G.S. of Rolling Hills website)
Materials: a card or poster board for each letter in the word “BADGES” with the speaking part on the back.
Procedure: Each girl holds up the letter, reads her part and stays in place until the word is
spelled out and the leader has spoken.
B stands for the BADGES to be given today. They are outward signs of an inner accomplishment.
They are not as important as the work needed to earn them.
A is for the positive ATTITUDE we gain from knowing that the time and energy needed to
complete these badges have given us new knowledge.
D is for the individual DEVELOPMENT we have experienced by completing these badges.
G is for the GROWTH we have shown by earning these badges. Each requirement has advanced us
one step further in life.
E is for the ENERGY necessary to earn these badges. Badges do not come easily... they should not,
or their value would be small. Badges must present challenges and satisfaction in accomplishment.
S stands for SELF-RESPECT. By developing our talents and strengthening our
weakness we begin to take pride in ourselves.
Leader: And so we have badges to be given at this Court of Awards. As your leader, I know the work you
have done to receive them. You are eager to wear them and it is with great pride and feeling of
accomplishment that I present them to you today. (Call each girl forward to make the presentation.)
Note: This same format could be used to explain the letters, TRY-ITS, PATCHES, etc. Simplify the
wording for younger girls.
Four-Winds
North Wind:
I am the North Wind. People say I am cold, but to [girl’s name] I will always bring the warmest weather
because she has been true to the Girl Scout Promise and has lived up to the Girl Scout Law.
South Wind:
I am the South Wind. I wish you all success in Girl Scouting. Over hill and dale I have carried stories of
[girl’s name] and her experiences. As a Girl Scout she has been happy, willing, and fair—a credit to her
troop and community.
East Wind:
I am the East Wind. I wish you well. I have spread the story of [girl’s] fun and happiness in Girl Scouting with her troop, and of how she lived up to the Girl Scout Promise and was fair and helpful.
West Wind:
I am the West Wind. I would like everyone present to know that [girls name] did not walk the trail to
the [award] alone. She had the wonderful help and guidance of her parents, [parents/guardians’ names].
Parents, continue to help your girls achieve and grow into young womanhood!
27
Founder’s Day
Ceremonies
Juliette “Daisy” Low Ceremony
This ceremony can be done at any time, however, it is very appropriate
on October 31, Juliette Low’s Birthday. It will help teach the girls
about our founder and also inform parents. This ceremony is designed
for 10 girls, however, some of the parts can be divided if more speaking
parts are needed. For variation let the girls look up information on
Juliette Low in their handbooks and write their own lines.
Equipment: White petals, cut out of poster board or drawing paper,
Any size is fine. The lines can be written on the back of the petals
Yellow Trefoil cut out of yellow paper • Tape
Each girl will read her part and put her petal on the wall with tape. The trefoil is the center of
the flower and goes on last. You might need to mark where the petals and center go.
•
Juliette Low was the founder of Girl Scouts in the Untied States. She was fondly known
as Daisy to her friends.
•
Daisy started the first troop in Savannah, Georgia, which was her home. You can visit her
birthplace if you go to Savannah.
•
The Birthday of Girl Scouting in America is March 12, 1912. Every year Girl Scouts
celebrate that day with parties, special ceremonies or service projects.
•
Juliette Low learned about Scouting form Lord Baden-Powell, the founder of Boy Scouts in
England. Inspired and enthusiastic with this youth program, she led 3 Girl Guides troops in
England and Scotland.
•
The she returned to America with “Something for the girls” and a dream of World peace
and friendship through a program that would unite the young people of all lands.
•
The first group of girls decided to change the name of Girl Guides to Girl Scouts. The
very first camp was held the same year, 1912.
•
Daisy Low worked endlessly and even sold her jewelry to spread the exciting idea of
Scouting, Even her deafness in later years did not hinder her.
•
Millions of girls have made the Promise since then. It still means the same to us today as
it meant to Daisy in 1912
•
Juliette Low wished Girl Scouts knew Girl Guides in other countries. The Juliette Low
World Friendship Fund was established in her memory to help her wish come true. Each
year Girl Scouts contribute to this fund. It helps young girls of other lands meet and
know each other at the World Centers and International gatherings.
•
To complete our “Daisy”, I place the symbol of the Promise made by Scouts everywhere. We
will now say our Gir Scout Promise.
All: Recite Girl Scout Promise
28
Thinking Day
Ceremonies
Flame Ceremony—to be used to
celebrate international friendships
Materials: 5 candles (brown, green, red, white, and yellow)
Arrange the candles with the green color inthe middle with the
brown and red candles on either side. The white and yellow
candles are in the outside positions.
Girl Scout in charge: Girl Scouts come from many lands all with smiles and helping hands.
Though they speak a different way the law and promise they obey.
Girl #1: I light the brown candle in friendship for all the brown-skinned Girl Scouts and
Guides in the world. Watch the flame closely please.
Girl #2: I light the red candle in friendship for all the red-skinned Girl Scouts and
Guides in the world. Watch the flame closely please.
Girl #3: I light the white candle in friendship for all the white-skinned Girl Scouts and
Guides in the world. Watch the flame closely please.
Girl #4: I light the yellow candle in friendship for all the yellow-skinned Girl Scouts and
Guides in the world. Watch the flame closely please.
Girl Scout in charge: Have you noticed the light from one candle is the same as the
other, even though the outside covering is different on each one? The culture of the
nations around the world vary from one another, but we all have the same basic needs.
We all wish to be shown respect for who we are and to enjoy the friendship and love of
others.
Light the green candle and then extinguish the flame from the brown, red, yellow and
white candles.
Scout in charge: The green candle represents the idea of international friendship and
understanding. Let us strive each day to keep the flame alive in our own lives.
At the conclusion of the ceremony sing an appropriate song, such as “Rise up old Flame,” or
“He’s Got the Whole World in His Hands.” This ceremony can be broken down into more
parts as necessary.
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JULIETTE LOW WORLD FRIENDSHIP FUND
As the story is read do the actions as follows:
On the word World, spin around once.
On the word Juliette Low, join hands with persons on right and left.
On the words Girls Scouts, Girl Scouting or Girl Guides, give a smile
and clap.
(Practice motions first so everybody understands what to do)
Once upon a time there was a lady whose name was Juliette Low.
She became interested in Girl Scouting through her friends Lord
and Lady Baden-Powell when she visited them in England. They started Boy Scouting and Girl
Scouting there. Juliette Low thought Girl Scouting was a wonderful idea. When she returned
to the United States, she decided to start a Girl Scout troop. So, on March 12, 1912, in her
hometown, Savannah, Georgia, Juliette Low started the first Girl Scout troop in this part of
the World. After that she traveled all over the country, helping to start more Girl Scouts
troops.
Juliette Low believed Girl Scouting was such a fine thing that she wanted to see Girl Scouts
troops all over the World. She knew that Girl Scouting would help girls become friends and
would help toward World peace and goodwill. After Juliette Low died in 1927, her friends
decided that the greatest tribute that could be paid to such a charming lady would be to continue working toward the realization of her dream of World friendship. A memorial fund was
started. It is called the Juliette Low World Friendship Fund.
Each year, all Girl Scouts in the United States are given the opportunity to bring money for
this fund, which helps Girl Scouting all over the World. When you Girl Scouts drop your money
into your Juliette Low World Friendship Fund box, you can imagine the far places of the World
to which this money will travel and the ways it will help Girl Scouts. Maybe your money will help
buy a Girl Scout uniform for a girl in Belgium who can’t afford one. Maybe your money will help
send some older Girl Scouts from our country to Our Chalet, an international camp in Switzerland, where Girl Scouts from all over the World get together to learn more about each other.
Or maybe you will be helping, with your money, to start new Girl Scout troops in other countries. No one knows to what parts of the World this money may travel. No one knows the way
in which it will one day come back to us in new friends. But we all know
that as we give our money to the Juliette Low World Friendship Fund,
we are helping to spread Girl Scouting around the World.
30
Buddy Meal
This activity can be a good way to promote sharing
and cooperation among your girls. Girls should ideally
be seated directly across the table from each other.
Leaders tie each girl’s hands to the hands of the girl
sitting opposite her with yarn. The yarn pieces should
be just short enough that only one girl can eat at a
time.
Throughout the meal the girls have to figure out how
to coordinate their movements with their partner so
that both get to eat and drink — hopefully without
spilling anything!
Hands AAcross
cross the Circle
(Action story ceremony to give out the World Trefoil Pin.)
Hands across the circle
(All form a circle)
Hands across the sea
(Criss-cross hands)
Let us extend the hand of friendship
wherever we may be.
(Extend left hand)
Love in our hearts for country.
Help in our hearts for all.
Ever alert and ready,
to answer friendship’s call.
In our two hands is the future
As our life unfurls.
If we can be better Girl Scouts
Then we will be better girls.
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(Raise right hand to heart)
(Extend both hands)
(Raise hands to mouth, as if calling someone)
(Hold both hands up, palms out)
(Spread hands apart)
(Make Girl Scout sign)
(Both hands on chest)
Girl Scout WEek
Ceremonies
TROOP OR GROUP BIRTHDAY PARTY CEREMONY
It is fun to have a real birthday party with cake and candles on the
anniversary date of the troop’s beginning.
Have the girls make invitations and send to troop committee members, sponsor(s) and/or the principal or clergy of troop meeting place.
Procedure: Place a large trefoil shape on the floor (tape, chalk, paper, etc.) Place birthday cake on a
table in the trefoil. The leader stands at point of trefoil.
#1 Girl Scout: “Today we are celebrating the _____ birthday of Troop #____. In renewing our
membership, we are again in good standing in our national organization that serves not only our
troop/group but also the thousands of troops and millions of girls all over the United States.”
#2 Girl Scout: “Through our national organization we are also members of the World Association
of Girl Guides and Girl Scouts that takes the same ideals to girls of many other countries. We have
been able to extend the fun and work, service and friendship of Girl Scouting to #_____ new
members of our troop.”
#3 Girl Scout: “We are glad to have present our troop committee members and sponsor(s) to say
thank you for your help.”
The troop/group leader then calls each person (adults then girls). As each one steps forward, the
person is presented with an unlit candle by the assistant leader. She/he (adult or girl) then puts the
candle on the cake and steps back in place.
The chair of the troop committee presents candles to leader and assistant leader who in turn places
candles on cake.
The Girl Scout oldest in membership now lights candles. (Adults should supervise candle lighting by
younger girls.)
#4 Girl Scout: “Now let us join hands and each silently make a wish for the troop.” (pause)
#5 Girl Scout:
(“Read a poem suitable for a birthday wish or have the troop make up their own.)
#6 Girl Scout: “The honor of blowing out the candles is given to:
_____________ and _____________ (2 girls next oldest in length of membership)
#7 Girl Scout: “After we sing our birthday song, please be seated while the cake is cut.”
(Sing “Happy Birthday Troop #_____”).
32
Girl Scout Sunday Responsive Reading (from G.S. of Rolling Hills website)
Leader: When Girl Scouts across the country make their promise,
they agree also to live by the Girl Scout Law. The basic principles
of this law are not new but have existed for centuries.
Leader: I will do my best to be honest and fair
People: Speak truth to your neighbors, for we are members of
one another. (Ephesians 4:25). Justice, and only justice you shall
pursue. (Deuteronomy 16:30).
Leader: …friendly and helpful
People: Love one another with mutual affection. (Romans 12:10). How does God’s love abide
in anyone who has the world’s goods and sees a person in need and yet refuses to help?
Let us love, not in word or speech, but in truth and action. (1 John 3:17-18).
Leader: …considerate and caring
People: Thus says the Lord of hosts: show kindness and mercy to one another. (Zechariah
7:9).
Leader: …courageous and strong
People: Be strong and courageous, do not be frightened or dismayed, for the Lord God is
with you wherever you go. (Joshua 1:9).
Leader: …and responsible for what I say and do
People: Whatever you do, in word or deed, do everything in the name of the Lord Jesus,
giving thanks to the Father through him. (Colossians 3:17).
Leader: …and to respect myself and others
People: God’s temple is holy and you are that temple. (1 Corinthians 3:17). Pay to all what is
due them – respect to whom respect is due, honor to whom honor is due. (Romans 13:7).
Leader: …respect authority
People: Whoever resists authority resists what God has appointed. (Romans 13:2).
Leader: …use resources wisely
People: The person who uses well what she is given shall be given more, and she shall have
abundance.
(Matthew 25:29).
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Leader: …make the world a better place
People: Let us not grow weary in doing what is right. Whenever we have an opportunity, let
us work for the good of all. (Galatians 6:9-10).
Leader: …and be a sister to every Girl Scout.
People: You shall love your neighbor as yourself. (Mark 12:31). Encourage one another and
build up each other. (1 Thessalonians 5:11).
Leader: These are the laws which we, as Girl Scouts, promise to keep. They are laws of the past
and the present which can help us build a better future.
Passing the Light Candle Ceremony
Materials needed:
1. candle for each girl
2. matches/lighter
3. water bucket (with water in it)
Long ago a special ceremony was formed. Juliette Low wanted her original
girls to carry a special spark with them as their Girl Scout group broke up.
Some from the troop were moving away, some were working to help their
families, others wanted to help lead a group of girls a little younger than
themselves. Whatever their reasons for separating, Juliette knew no other
group would ever be quite the same. As the girls stood in a circle holding the
candles they had made, Juliette knew what spark it was that she wanted to
pass on.
She lit her candle and spoke:
”With this candle I give you each something very special to pass on. As I light the candle on my
right I ask each of you to light the candle to your right and pass it on. I want you to carry this
thought with you wherever you go. This is the ETERNAL FLAME for Girl Scouts. After having a
lit candle before you, each of you will repeat the Girl Scout Promise with me, then pause and
recall a few of the things we have done together as a group. I will hold my candle up and as I do,
you will all raise yours and we will blow them out together.
Before we separate from our circle, I want to ask you to keep this candle as a very special
candle. It is not to be used for any purpose but passing on the ETERNAL FLAME. You may use it
in other Girl Scout ceremonies such as camps, encampments, campfires, bridging or court of
awards ceremonies. I’m glad we were able to start a special tradition based on our ETERNAL
FLAME.”
34
The Wish That Came True
(A choral reading by Marie Witzel and Dorothy Shelly (revised by GSRBC)
SOLO: Once, Juliette Low said to her father that she wished she could leave a work of art for
which she could be remembered forever.
UNISON: Your wish, Juliette Low, has come true.
GROUP 1: Just as you dreamed it would.
GROUP 2: “You learned of Boy Scouts from Lord Robert Baden-Powell.
SOLO: With him, you wished that girls could share the joys of
SOLO: Friendship!
SOLO: Understanding!
SOLO: Adventure!
SOLO: Games!
SOLO: Resourcefulness!
SOLO: Love of the out-of-doors!
UNISON: Service (pause) Then troops were started in villages, towns and cities. They were called
Girl Guides.
GROUP 1: You wished to take the idea across the ocean to America.
UNISON: A wonderful program for girls: Girl Scouts!
GROUP 2: Your wish became a gift to the girls of the U.S.A.
UNISON: You wished for thousands. We now say proudly there are millions! Your wish came true!
SOLO: The youngest members are called Girl Scout Daisies.
GROUP 1: They take their name from your nickname, our Founder, Juliette Gordon Low.
GROUP 2: Girl Scout Daisies enjoy lots of fun-filled activities: earning the Promise Center & Petals.
SOLO: The next level is Girl Scout Brownies.
GROUP 1: They continue to explore the program by completing activities from Try-Its.
SOLO: Girl Scout Juniors come next.
GROUP 2: Their world expands for them as they choose to earn badges and signs.
35
SOLO: Sign of the Rainbow, Sign of the Sun, Sign of the Star, Sign of the World.
GROUP 1: STUDIO 2B is the place to be for Girl Scout Cadettes, Girl Scout Seniors, & Girl
Scout Ambassadors who want to shape the world around them and create their own adventures.
SOLO: Their program goals are the 4 B’s: Become, Belong, Believe, Build.
GROUP 2: They can pick and choose from Focus Books and earn charms, choose exciting
activities from the Collections magazine and more ... the world is their menu.
GROUP 1: Girls develop their own plan of action. The program becomes an individual path for
each girl.
GROUP 2: Some may choose to earn Interest Project Awards.
GROUP 1: By becoming a Program Aide, girls provide sevice & leadership while working with
younger Girl Scouts.
SOLO: Girls in grades 6-9 can choose to complete the challenging requirements of the highest
award for girls of this age group: the Girl Scout Silver Award.
SOLO: Girls in grades 9-12 can choose a different path in Girl Scouting.
GROUP 2: Leader-in-Training, Counselor-in-Training, or Girl Scout Troop Assistant will be the
path of some who choose to hone their leadership skills while working with younger girls.
GROUP 1: The Girl Scout Gold Award: Girl Scouting’s highest award will be earned by a dedicated
few who choose to take on this committment to developing their full self-potential.
GROUP 2: Now through the new Girl Scout Leadership Model, girls can complete the first “It’s
Your World - -Change It” Journey Series:
SOLO: Girl Scout Daisy: “Welcome to the Daisy Flower Garden,” Girl Scout Brownie: “The
Brownie Quest,” Girl Scout Cadette: “aMaze,” Girl Scout Senior: “GIRLtopia,” Girl Scout Ambassador: “Your Voice, Your World, The Power of Advocacy.”
GROUP 1: Give us the keys -- “DICOVER, CONNECT, and TAKE ACTION and WE WILL LEAD!!”
GROUP 2: Girl Scouts wish came true too! They can visit the World Centers.
SOLO: An international encampment at Our Cabana in Mexico.
SOLO: A session at Sangam, in India, or Pax Lodge, in England.
SOLO: Or maybe a visit to Our Chalet in Switzerland.
UNISON: Your wish came true! destinations for girls!
GROUP 1: From Girl Scouts all over the country come:
SOLO: Pennies, nickles, dimes, quarters.
36
SOLO: Hundreds of thousands of dollars each year.
UNISON: Money to promote international friendship.
SOLO: You will be remembered, Juliette Low, for all you gave to us.
SOLO: Our Motto UNISON: “Be Prepared”
SOLO: Our Slogan UNISON: “Do a Good Turn Daily”
SOLO: Our Girl Scout Promise UNISON: (make G.S. sign and repeat the Girl Scout Promise)
SOLO: I will do my best to be honest and fair,
GROUP 1: Friendly and helpful,
SOLO: considerate and caring,
GROUP 2: courageous and strong, and
SOLO: responsible for what I say and do,
GROUP 1: and to respect myself and others,
SOLO: respect authority,
GROUP 2: use resources wisely,
SOLO: make the world a better place, and
GROUP 1: to be a sister to every Girl Scout.
SOLO: Our pin UNISON: A symbol of Girl Scouts that encircles the world.
GROUP 2: The three leaves of the trefoil remind us of the three parts of our Girl Scout Promise.
UNISON: It is a symbol of
SOLO: Working together
SOLO: Playing together
SOLO: Seeking together
SOLO: You will be remembered, Juliette Low.
UNISON: Your wish did come true!
37
Scouts’ Own
Ceremonies
A SCOUTS’ OWN is a quiet type of ceremony with a theme. It
is called a SCOUTS’ OWN because girls and their leader plan
it themselves. It is not a religious service or ceremony and
does not take the place of going to church, temple or synagogue. It is an occasion in which girls express their deepest
feelings about subjects, which are meaningful to them.
A SCOUTS’ OWN can be held at any time, indoors or out, at a
troop meeting, inter-troop gathering, or in camp. It is difficult
for Girl Scout Brownies to plan a SCOUTS’ OWN. However, in
being present at one, Brownies may begin to sense the deeper
values of Scouting as they hear girls express their feelings,
convictions, aspirations or ideals.
First choose a THEME. Examples: friendship, sisterhood, the
beauty of nature, the life of the Juliette Low, the first day of Spring, flags, senior citizens,
the spirit of a special day like Thanksgiving, citizenship, service, the world of tomorrow.
If you are going to hold the SCOUTS’ OWN outdoors, choose a special place, one with a view,
or under a special tree. If indoors, you might choose a symbol, such as, a flag or a special picture or scene.
Choose just one major theme, then make a list of different ways you can tell or show your
theme. Examples: songs, poems, a choral rendition, a story, a legend, a show play, music played
on an
instrument, pantomime ... or thoughts about what the theme means to her, spoken by each Girl
Scout.
From your list choose one idea to open the SCOUTS’ OWN. Select one or two or half a dozen
other ideas you want to include. Decide how to end your ceremony.
Decide who will perform or lead each part and who will lead the girls to the place for the
ceremony and back again.
It is a Girl Scout custom to walk quietly to the place where this ceremony is held and leave
quietly after it is over.
The plans for every SCOUTS’ OWN should provide for definite, thoughtful leadership —
leadership which will quietly maintain the essential qualities of reverence and aspiration.
Keep the ceremony short - 10 to 15 minutes - but in the atmosphere of quiet expression and
free exchange of earnest feeling, allow the girls their full share, both in the planning and in
carrying out the ceremony.
38
RAINBOW SCOUTS’ OWN
Materials: Three white candles and 10 colored
(one each blue, gold, green, yellow, pink,
silver, orange, red, brown, and white).
SPEAKER: Let us light three candles symbolic of the three parts of the Girl Scout Promise, and
let us say our Girl Scout Promise:
ALL: (Recite Promise)
light white candles
1st Candle: This candle represents duty of the Girl Scout to God as the creator of all things.
2nd Candle: This candle shows love of country and love of people no matter what nationality,
religion, or color of skin.
3rd Candle: This candle shows the basic code of Girl Scouting that is the Girl Scout Law. A Girl
Scout lives by this Law.
light colored candles
THE GIRL SCOUT LAW: I WILL DO MY BEST TO BE....
1. HONEST AND FAIR: BLUE the color of the sky. A Girl Scout’s honesty in dealing with her
family, her friends and her country should be as dependable as the blue of the sky.
2. FRIENDLY AND HELPFUL: Watching the PINK in the changing sky at sunset gives us a
sense of peace and reminds us to be friendly and helpful to everyone.
3. CONSIDERATE AND CARING: GREEN the color of nature, useful and helpful to all, reminding us of our Promise to be considerate and caring of others.
4. COURAGEOUS AND STRONG: YELLOW is a symbol of strength and courage, like the flowers of the field that lays dormant during winter and return each spring.
5. RESPONSIBLE FOR WHAT I SAY AND DO. GOLD represents the suns rays. They shine on
everyone regardless of color creed or race. And to
6. RESPECT MYSELF AND OTHERS. WHITE representing clean falling snow, reminds us that
Girl Scouts should show respect for themselves and others through words and actions.
7. RESPECT AUTHORITY. ORANGE represents the sunset. Even the sun must obey nature’sorders as it rises and sets each day.
8. USE RESOURCES WISELY. RED is the color of fire, we must use fire with great care, just
as we must be thrifty with all our resources.
9. MAKE THE WORLD A BETTER PLACE. BROWN makes us think of the color of the earth.
We must protect, improve and keep our planet healthy.
10. BE A SISTER TO EVERY GIRL SCOUT. SILVER symbolizes a beautiful calm lake, as we
think of all the Girl Scouts around the world.
39
CHAIN OF LIFE OUTDOOR CEREMONY
Photocopy this sheet and cut each part in strips. Glue strips onto larger color paper strips.
As each person says her part, link the strips making a chain circle. Leaders can start and
finish the circle. Combine or divide the different parts of the chain of life to fit the number of girls in your ceremony. Blank strips can also be used so that every girl is included in
making the chain.
All of God’s creations fit together like a chain, each with its own job to do. Each form of life depends
on another part of the chain to survive. What happens if one part of the chain of life is destroyed?
Plants: Plants are necessary for life. There are many different kinds of plants on Earth and they are
all important. They clean the air and make oxygen for humans and animals to breathe. The roots of
plants help keep soil from being blown or washed away.
Plants are used to provide food or homes to insects, animals, and humans. Humans use plants to make
many of the items that they use every day, including the products used to make the clothing and shelter
that they need to survive.
Fruits, vegetables, & nuts are the parts of plants that are eaten by humans most
often. Eating these parts of plants helps provide vitamins and minerals that are necessary for good health.
Grass: Grass is a plant that covers much of the Earth’s surface. Grass is good for
holding the soil in place. Grains that humans eat, such as wheat and
rice, are a grass. Animals that humans raise for food often eat
grasses. Wild animals and insects also use grass for food and shelter.
Trees: Trees are another kind of plant that has many uses for different living
creatures. Like all plants, trees clean the air. Many animals and insects get their
food from trees. Some creatures make their homes in trees. Trees also provide
shade from the sun. Humans use trees to make things such as paper and wood.
Insects: Insects often are needed pollinate plants so that more plants can grow.
Many fish, birds, and other animals eat insects.
Animals: Some animals eat plants, some animals eat insects, and some animals eat other animals.
This allows for balance, so that there is not so many of one kind of creature that there is not
enough food for it.
Animals also fertilize the soil with their waste, helping plants grow.
Animals put out carbon dioxide when they breathe, which plants make
into oxygen.
Many humans use animals to provide meat and dairy to eat and drink.
Humans may also use animals to make products such as leather and wool.
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Birds: Like other animals, birds help keep the balance of nature. Most birds feed on plants
or insects, while others eat smaller animals. Many animals, including humans, use the meat
and eggs of birds for food. A very important part that birds play in the chain of life is
eating and scattering seeds so that new plants can grow.
Humans: Humans need plants and animals for sources of food, clothing, and
shelter. Humans differ greatly from other animals because their brains make them the most
complex living creature yet known. Because of the brain, humans can reason, letting them
unlock many secrets of the universe.
Humans have more knowledge about the balance of the chain of life because they have studied
and learned about each link of the chain. Working together, humans have the greatest power
to make good decisions to help keep this important balance so that life on Earth can continue.
Bacteria: Bacteria are tiny, but very important. Bacteria helps break down organisms such as
waste or dead creatures so that they are made into chemicals that are necessary for new life to
begin.
Everything on Earth has a certain job to do. Every living thing on Earth fits together like a chain.
What happens if one part of the chain of life is destroyed?
Hold completed chain above the heads. You may sing “He’s Got the Whole World In His Hands.”
Nobody Told Me
Reader 1:
Nobody told me I would really feel part of something so big, so wonderful, that when we
said the Promise together tonight that I would mean every word. Will I ever know all the
words? You’ll learn them, I was told.
Reader 2:
Nobody told me that while I worried about about “doing the right thing at the right time,”
I would now be looked upon as “knowing all the answers” by the younger Girl Scouts. What
if they won’t listen to me? They’ll learn from you, I was told.
Reader 3:
Nobody told me I would really have to cook on an open fire. “I don’t know how to scramble
eggs or put up a tent.” You’ll learn, I was told. Nobody told me that I would really want to
go camping again. You’ll learn, I was told.
Reader 4:
Nobody ever told me that I would become queasy or that my voice would crack when I
led the Flag Ceremony. “But, I’ve never done a flag ceremony, I said. What if I forget
the words? You’ll learn, I was told.
Reader 5:
Nobody told me that the Girl Scout Law was made to help us become better people. How
will I learn to get along with so many girls, we’re all so different? You’ll learn, I was told.
Leader:
Nobody told me that getting to know these girls would be so much fun. Nobody told
me, I learned.
In Unison:
We are Girl Scouts. Four words, but, behind them, hundreds of feelings and thoughts.
We are Girl Scouts because we love the out-of-doors, singing, reading, learning how to
make things, and because we enjoy sharing with our friends in Girl Scouting. Nobody told
us that we would make so many friends! Nobody told us. We learned.
41
Flag
Ceremonies
Flag Ceremony Guidelines
Simplicity is the keynote of any flag ceremony; emphasis should be on
respect for the flag rather than on the commands or techniques.
Some questions to be addressed when planning a flag ceremony:
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
8.
9.
Who will carry the flag?
Who will be the color guard?
Who will give the directions for the ceremony?
What song shall we sing? Who will sound the pitch and start the song?
Do we want a poem or quotation? Who will say or read it?
After the Pledge of Allegiance, shall we say the Promise and Law?
In what ordr should we do all of these things?
When should we practice this?
Where will the flags be placed at the end of the ceremony?
Terms used in a Flag Ceremony:
The color bearer (or flag bearer) is the person who carries the flag. There is one color bearer
for each flag in the ceremony.
The color guard is a team that guards the flags. Any even number of guards may be used, bu
usually four or six girls are sufficient.
The Girl Scout-in-Charge (or caller) is a designated Girl Scout who announces each part of the
ceremony.
Basic Flag Ceremony Commands:
“Girl Scouts, attention.” Used to announce that the flag ceremony is to begin. Please stand.
“Color Guard advance.”
This signals the Color Guard to place the flag in flag stands or to
attach the flag to the flagpole rope.
“Color Guard, retire the colors.” This asks the Color Guard to remove the flag from standards,
or to lower the flag, detach from the rope, and fold prior to being dismissed.
“Color Guard, honor your flag.” The Color Guard salutes the American flag.
“Please join me in the pledge to the flag.” I Pledge ...
“Please join me in the GS Promise.” On my Honor ...
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“Color Guard, dismissed.” The Color Guard leaves in formation, with or without the flag. If the
flag is to be placed in a stand, an additional command of “Color Guard, post the colors,” would be
added just before the dismissal.
Handling the American Flag:
The display of our American Flag is governed by law to ensure
that it will be treated with the respect due the flag of a
great nation. This is known as the Flag Code. Some of the
rules most useful for Girl Scouts are:
The American Flag should be placed in the center, and higher,
when displayed with a group of state, local or organizational
flags flown from staffs. It may also be positioned to the right
of other flags (if you were to hold the flag while facing your
audience, your right side should be the flag’s own right).
“When displayed from a staff in a church or public auditorium,
the flag of the United States of America should hold the
position of superior prominence, in advance of the audience,
and in the position of honor at the clergyman’s or speaker’s
right as he faces the audience. Any other flag so displayed
should be placed on the left of the clergyman or speaker or to
the right of the audience.”
The flag should be hoisted briskly and lowered slowly with dignity.
The flag should never by allowed to touch anything beneath it, nor should it ever be carried flat
or horizontally - always aloft and free.
Never use the flag as a cover or place anything on top of it.
No disrespect of any kind should be shown to the flag of the United States. It should be kept
clean.
The flag, when carried in a procession with other flags, should be either on the marching right
or, if there is a line of other flags, in front of the center of that line.
When you display the flag on a wall or in a window where people see it from the street, it should
be displayed flat with the blue part at the top and on the flag’s own right (which is the
observer’s left).
When displayed after dark, the flag should be illuminated.
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Flag Ceremony Diagrams:
Here are a few basic principles for honoring the
American flag in the presence of Girl Scoutflags.
The United States flag should be in one of the
following positions: first, to the flag’s own right,
center front, or center and higher.
A few of the most common situations in troop,
adult, or large organization meetings have been
used in illustrating these principles. Since the
prescence of color guards does not later flag
positions, they are not shown. Other Girl Scout
flags can be added as desired.
Two flags: right.
Three flags: center front
Sample ceremonies using these principles:
A. Carried in: U.S. flag leading, World Association flag next, troop flag third. U.S. flag turns
right at end of aisle, Scout flags go to left.
B. Held for ceremony: U.S. flag at front center
stage, Scout flags behind it.
Many flags: In front
C. Grounded: Scout flags grounded before U.S.
flag. U.S. flag grounded last and in highest
stand.
D. Retiring flags: U.S. flag is picked up first,
carried along route which Scout flags are entered. Scout flags go out the other way. This
keeps the U.S. flag on the right.
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Two flags: right
Many flags: right
On platform: Flag’s own right.
Three flags: center
Higher, if centered
Against wall: flag’s own right
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All same level: right
AN OUTDOOR FLAG CEREMONY
There are dozens of variations on how to “do” an
outdoor flag ceremony! How your girls do it depends on
their age, ability, and experience. Always remember, the
most important point of any flag ceremony is respect
and honor! Mistakes may occur – the flag may be raised
upside down, it may accidentally touch the ground, it may
be folded wrong, or something else may happen! Leaders
need to be sure the girls understand what went wrong so
it (hopefully) won’t happen again, but they will feel worse
than you do, so be gentle! The following information may
look complicated, but it really isn’t – just remember to
start simple and “practice makes perfect!!”
THE PARTICIPANTS:
THE FLAG BEARER: Carries the flag to or from the flagpole; handles the raising or lowering of the
flag. NEVER SPEAKS, SINGS, OR OTHERWISE PARTICIPATES IN OTHER PARTS OF THE CEREMONY.
THE COLOR GUARD: Serve as escorts for the flag bearer and official guardians of the flag during
the entire ceremony. There may be 2, 4, 6, 8 and so on, members of the color guard – usually 4 people
make up the color guard. THEY NEVER SPEAK, SING, OR OTHERWISE PARTICIPATE IN OTHER
PARTS OF THE CEREMONY.
THE CALLER: Is responsible for giving all verbal commands during the ceremony.
NOTE: Traditionally in Girl Scouting the above people have worn red flag sashes—they are optional, not
required. If sashes are worn; the Flag Bearer wears hers over the right shoulder and tied with a square
knot on the left side. The Color Guard and the Caller wear the sash around the waist and tied with a
square knot on the left side.
ATMOSPHERE: Silence! All campers and adults remain absolutely quiet during the ceremony except
when the Caller directs them to participate.
SUGGESTED PROCEDURE: The flag bearer and color guard should be in place before the campers
assume their places. Campers generally “line up” with someone at the head of the line who can lead the
group into the flag pole area in a horseshoe formation or semi-circle, etc. There should be a designated
quiet point as the group enters. As soon as the group is in place the Caller (who may take her place at
the last of the horseshoe and stand slightly forward in order to be heard) will begin the flag ceremony.
CALLER: “Color Guard, Advance”
NOTE: At this point, depending on the purpose of the ceremony – to raise or lower the flag – the Caller
will direct the campers and the Color Guard. The ingredients of the ceremony are not always the same,
but participation by the campers takes place after the flag has been raised or before it is lowered. The
Pledge of Allegiance is usually repeated (everyone salutes the flag by placing the hand over the heart)
patriotic songs, poems, readings or other items may be included. The Caller leads this part, also.
RAISING THE FLAG: The Caller – “Color Guard, post the colors.”
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The Flag Bearer steps forward followed by the first two members of the Color Guard (can be
one member of the Color Guard) who takes position on the right and left of the Flag Bearer.
The Flag Bearer unties the rope and brings the hooks down to be placed in the grommets of the
flag – a member of the Color Guard is now holding the flag. The Flag Bearer hooks the first
grommet and then the second. AS SOON AS THE FIRST GROMMET IS HOOKED ALL CAMPERS IN THE HORSESHOE SALUTE BY PLACING HAND OVER HEART – SALUTE IS HELD
UNTIL FLAG REACHES THE TOP OF THE FLAG POLE. The Color Guard makes sure the flag is
unfolded before the Flag Bearer pulls the rope briskly to raise the flag. The rope is then
secured, the Color Guard members resume their positions as does the Flag Bearer.
The Caller directs the campers in the Pledge, song, etc. after which the Caller gives the
command, “Color Guard dismissed”. The Color Guard allows the Bearer to move to their front
after all turn and fact their original point, they move to that point and turn and face the campers with the Flag Bearer coming back to the front. The Caller then announces, “Girl Scouts,
dismissed”. The last person in the horseshoe then becomes the leader and moves the group out
until the last person has passed the original “quiet point” and the Flag Ceremony is over.
LOWERING THE FLAG: The Caller directs the campers in the Pledge, song, etc. and then
announces, “Color Guard, retire the colors.” The same process as above takes place with the
Flag Bearer lowering the flag, slowly. AS SOON AS THE FLAG STARTS DOWN THE FLAG
POLE THE CAMPERS SALUTE (AS ABOVE) AND HOLD THE SALUTE UNTIL THE LAST HOOK
IS REMOVED. The Color Guard gathers the flag as it comes down to keep it from reaching the
ground. As soon as the last hook is undone the bearer passes the flag to the Color Guard who
takes it back to their original positions and pass the end of the flag to the other members of
the Color Guard. Meanwhile, the Flag Bearer has secured the ropes and taken her original
position, facing the flagpole. At this point, the Color Guard folds the flag, as follows.
FOLDING THE FLAG: Open Flag is held by the Color Guard with blue field nearest flagpole. It
is folded lengthwise in half, and depending on size, again lengthwise in half with blue field always
on the outside. The last guards begin folding flag in a triangle toward the blue field. They continue to fold until they reach the next pair of guards. (See the girl’s handbook for display and
use of the flag).
The Color Guard resumes its original position. One member of the first couple steps up in front
of the Flag Bearer, places the flag, with point away from Bearer, in her outstretched hands and
returns to her position.
The Caller then commands, “Color Guard, dismissed”. The same procedures then takes place as
described in the Flag Raising, above.
All flag ceremonies at camp do not have to take place at the camp flag pole—you may want to
improvise by using a tree in your unit and establishing your flag area. Don’t forget, if it starts
raining during the day—someone go take the flag down—respectfully, but not necessarily “in
ceremony”!
The key to successful flag ceremonies is to really practice—the Color Guard (includes
the Flag Bearer and Caller) should have some time during the day or the evening before to
practice without an audience so they feel very comfortable!
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Folding the Flag Ceremony
(from the U.S. Air Force Academy)
The first fold of our flag is a symbol of life.
The second fold is a symbol of our belief in the eternal life.
The third fold is made in honor and remembrance of the veteran departing
our ranks who have a portion of life for the defense of our country to
attain a peace throughout the world.
The fourth fold represents our weaker nature, for as American citizens trusting in God, it is to
Him we turn in times of peace as well as in times of war for His divine guidance.
The fifth fold is a tribute to our country, for in the words of Stephen Decatur, “Our country, in
dealing with other countries, may she always be right; but it is still our country, right or wrong.”
The sixth fold is for where our hearts lie. It is with our heart that we pledge allegiance to the
flag of the United States of America, and to the republic for which it stands, one nation, under
God, indivisible, with liberty and justice for all.
The seventh fold is a tribute to our Armed Forces, for it is through the Armed Forces that we
protect our country and our flag against all her enemies, whether they be found within or without the boundaries of our republic.
The eighth fold is a tribute to the one who entered in to the valley of the shadow of death,
that we might see the light of day, and to honor mother, for whom it flies on mother’s day.
The ninth fold is a tribute to womanhood; for it has been through their faith, love, loyalty and
devotion that the character of the men and women who have made this country great have been
molded.
The tenth fold is a tribute to father, for he, too, has given his sons and daughters for the
defense of our country since they were first born.
The eleventh fold, in the eyes of a Hebrew citizen, represents an emblem of eternity and glorifies, in their eyes, God the Father, the Son, and Holy Ghost.
When the flag is completely folded, the stars are uppermost, reminding us of our national
motto, “In God we Trust.”
(Wait for the Honor Guard or Flag Detail to inspect the flag – after the inspection, resume reading.)
After the flag is completely folded and tucked in, it takes on the appearance of a cocked hat,
ever reminding us of the soldiers who served under General George Washington and the sailors
and marines who served under Captain John Paul Jones who were followed by their comrades
and shipmates in the Armed Forces of the United States, preserving for us the rights, privileges, and freedoms we enjoy today.
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“Recipe” Flag Ceremony
This ceremony is especially good for younger girls.
FLAG RECIPE SUPPLIES: 6 Girls • 1 cup red chips (or red crepe paper) • 1 cup blue chips
1 cup white chips • 1 cup stars • 1 large pot • 1 American flag • 1 long handled spoon
1. We are going to fix for you
A treat that’s really grand.
And make for you a recipe –
The greatest in the land.
2. In first we will put a heaping cup
of red for courage true.
(pour red chips into pot & stir)
3. And then we will add for loyalty,
(pour blue chips into pot & stir )
4. For purity, we will now sift in
A layer of snowy white.
(pour white chips into pot & stir)
5. We will sprinkle in a pinch of stars
To make it come out right.
(pour stars into pot & stir)
6. We will stir and stir and then we will see
That what we have made is…
ALL-Old Glory (pull out folded flag from bottom of pot and hold up for the pledge and song).
All-Our flag is the most beautiful flag in the world, let us always be loyal to it.
It is suggested that the six girls leave their places and stand in a horseshoe around the pot facing the
group. All pull out the flag together. A spotlight is also nice.
FLAG CEREMONY MULTIPLE LEVELS (from G.S. of Rolling Hills website) Opening: Quiet Sign
(Girl Scout Daisy Flag enters, carried by a Girl Scout Daisy)
Narrator: “I am the Daisy Girl Scout Flag. I have watched over the Girl Scouts in blue. I have watched
them become Girl Scouts and now they seek the wise old owl.”
(Girl Scout Brownie Flag enters, carried by a Girl Scout Brownie)
Narrator: “I am the Girl Scout Brownie Flag. I have watched over the Girl Scouts in brown. I have
guided their enthusiasm for three years and now they fly from my arms.”
(Girl Scout Flag enters, carried by a Girl Scout Junior.)
Narrator: “I am the Girl Scout Flag. I have watched over the Girl Scouts in green. For three years I
have watched them grow and now they step upward to Cadette Girl Scouting.”
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(World Association Flag enters carried by a Girl Scout Cadette.)
Narrator: “I am the World Association Flag. I watch over my Girl Scouts to appreciate Girl Scouting/
Girl Guiding all over the world. They have the same international spirit that made me great. I watch
Cadette Girl Scouts grow to become Girl Scout Seniors. PLEASE STAND.”
(United States Flag enters, carried by a Girl Scout Senior.)
Narrator: “I am the United States Flag. I watch over all Girl Scouts. I can hold my head high when I am
with them.“
“THE FLAG OF YOU COUNTRY, PLEDGE ALLEGIANCE.”
COLOR GUARD, POST YOUR COLORS. COLOR GUARD DISMISSED.
Ceremony for Retiring a Worn Flag (from G.S. of Rolling Hills website)
This is a solemn ceremony and should be done with utmost respect for the
retiring of the flag of our country.
Items needed: Flag to be retired, sharp scissors, flashlight, fire to burn the flag.
People needed: The Color guard - - four girls, one for each corner of the flag.
One or two girls will cut the flag; one or two girls will lay flag pieces on the fire.
GIRL SCOUT IN CHARGE: “Color guard, advance.” (may carry flag folded or open on a pole).
“Please stand. Our Pledge of Allegiance.”
An appropriate reading or poem.
Song – optional
GIRL SCOUT IN CHARGE: “When the flag of our country has become worn or damaged, the
proper way to dispose of it is through burning or burial. We are here tonight to pay our last
respects to this particular flag with love and reverence. Each stripe stands for one of the thirteen
colonies, and each state is represented by a star on a field of blue.”
When reader finishes, the cutter starts cutting the first stripe. When it is
entirely cut, she lays it
over the arm of another color guard member to lay on the fire.
As each stripe is laid on the fire, the Girl Scout- in-Charge calls out the name
of the thirteen original colonies in the order in which the states were admitted to the Union. The first stripe stands for Delaware, then Pennsylvania, New
Jersey, Georgia, Connecticut, Massachusetts, Maryland, South Carolina, New
Hampshire, Virginia, New York, North Carolina, and Rhode Island.
The field of blue with white stars, which stands for all the states, is burned
last. It should be laid on the fire with two girls holding the corners, not
tossed onto the fire.
Closing: A song such as “God Bless America”
The girls are excused in silence while taps is played or hummed by the group.
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I am Old Glory!—A Reading for Retiring Wornout Flags
I am Old Glory; for more than 9 score years I have been
the banner of hope and freedom for generation after
generation of Americans. Born amid the first flames of
America’s fight for freedom, I am the symbol of a country
that has grown from a little group of 13 colonies to a
united nation of 50 sovereign states. Planted firmly on the
high pinnacle of American Faith, my gently fluttering folds
have proved an inspiration to untold millions. Men have
followed me into battle with unwavering courage. They
have looked upon me as a symbol of national unity. They
have prayed that they and their fellow citizens might
continue to enjoy the life, liberty and pursuit of happiness,
which have been granted to every American as the heritage of free men. So long as men love liberty more than
life itself, so long as they treasure the priceless
priveleges bought with the blood of our forefathers; so
long as the principles of truth, justice and charity for all
remain deeply rooted in human hearts, I shall continue to
be the enduring banner of the United States of America.
Remember as you look at your Flag, which is the symbol of our nation, that it is red because of
human sacrifice. It is blue because of the true blue loyalty of its defenders. It is white to
symbolize liberty - our land of the free. The stars are symbols of the united efforts and hope
in the hearts of many people striving for a greater nobler America.
(At the beginning of the ceremony the speaker should say who the flag grommets will be given
to. They are a form of good luck and can be carried or worn by the person who receives one.)
[Lower the colors or unfold the flag.]
Our flag has been used so much, that it is no longer a fitting emblem to display, so we are respectfully burning it.
FIRST STRIPE: The 13 stripes stand for the original 13 colonies which are; Massachusetts,
Virginia, Pennsylvania, New York, Connecticut, Rhode Island, New Hampshire, Delaware, Maryland, North Carolina, Georgia, and New Jersey.
SECOND STRIPE: The white stands for purity
THIRD STRIPE: The red stands for courage
FOURTH STRIPE: “Give me liberty or give me death”
FIFTH STRIPE: “One if by land, two if the sea”
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SIXTH STRIPE: We the people of the United States, in order to form a more perfect union,
establish justice, insure domestic tranquility, provide for the common defense, promote the
general welfare, and secure the blessings of liberty to ourselves and our posterity, do ordain
and establish this Constitution of the United States of America.
SEVENTH STRIPE: We hold these truths to be self evident that all men are created equal.
They are endowed by their creator with certain inalienable rights. Among these are life, liberty,
and the pursuit of happiness.
EIGHTH STRIPE: Congress shall make no law respecting an establishment of religion or prohibiting the free exercise thereof
NINTH STRIPE: Congress shall make no law abridging the freedom of speech or press.
TENTH STRIPE: “Four score and seven years ago, our fathers brought forth to this continent
a new nation.”
ELEVENTH STRIPE: The right of citizens of the United States to vote shall not be denied or
abridged by the United States or by any state on account of sex.
TWELFTH STRIPE: “Ask not what your country can do for you, but what you can do for your
country.”
THIRTEENTH STRIPE: “One small step for man, one giant leap for mankind.”
Each state is being represented by a star on a field of blue, which signifies a new constellation
being formed.
“As we place it in the fire, let it burn brightly and remind us how truly our flag represents our
country.”
*
Nothing should ever be added to the ceremonial fire after the Flag has been
burned (out of respect)
*
The next morning the girls that actually burned the flag and their leader will
gather the ashes to be buried.
*
This could be included as the last step in the ceremony if they wanted all of those
in attendance to participate.
*
If the ashes are entirely out, they can be carried to the burial site in a box, if the
ashes are still hot, a bucket could be used, then place by shovels-full into the hole.
*
For the burial site: A hole is dug, the dirt placed carefully beside it and the ashes
are placed into the hole by handfuls. Fill the hole back up with dirt, a marker can
be placed.
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Campfire
Ceremonies
Campfire Ashes
Legend has it that Baden-Powell would always take a small amount of
ashes from the campfire and spread these ashes into the next campfire.
He kept a list of dates and locations on the bag of ashes.The next morning, when the ashes are cold, they are stirred, and each Guide or Scout
takes some along to mix with her/his next campfire. If more than one
Guide/Scout brings ashes to the same campfire, the lists are pooled, with
the dates and places of all campfires recorded and passed on. It is tradition that only those present at the ceremony may carry the ashes from
that ceremony.
Charge of the Ashes: “May the spirits of past campfires be here with us tonight, carrying fellowship in these ashes from other campfires, thus uniting us with friends and comrades in other lands.
“(Sprinkle saved ashes over fire)
“May the joining of the dead fires with the leaping flames of our campfire tonight symbolize once
more the unbroken chain that binds Girl Guides and Girl Scouts around the world. Fond greetings to
Girl Guides and Girl Scouts of all nations, everywhere.”
INDIAN SCOUT CAMPFIRE CEREMONY (from G.S. of Rolling Hills website)
Materials: flashlights, twigs and leaves to throw in the fire. Have girls in a semi-circle. All
flashlights are off. As each girl says “ I sacrifice…” she’ll throw the twigs and leaves into the fire.
Leader: I bring the light of scouting to kindle the flame of love and friendship. (Light flashlights)
I call upon all Girl Scouts to sacrifice all that is undesirable into the pure flames.
GS 1
I sacrifice dishonesty. I take back this pure light to help me keep the Girl Scout Law.
I will do my best to be honest and fair.
GS 2
I sacrifice unfairness. I take back this pure light to help me keep the Girl Scout Law. I will
be friendly and helpful.
GS 3
I sacrifice all uncharitable thoughts. I take back this pure light to help me keep the Girl
Scout Law. I will be considerate and caring.
GS 4
I sacrifice all unhappiness. I take back this pure light to help me keep the Girl Scout Law.
I will be courageous and strong.
GS 5
I sacrifice all that is impure. I take back this pure light to help me keep the Girl Scout Law.
I will be responsible for what I say and do.
GS 6
I sacrifice all feelings of rivalry. I take back this pure light to help me keep the Girl Scout
Law. I’ll respect myself and others.
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GS 7
I sacrifice disrespectfulness. I take back this pure light to help me keep the Girl Scout Law.
I’ll respect authority.
GS 8
I sacrifice all that is wasteful. I take back this pure light to help me keep the Girl Scout
Law. I’ll use resources wisely.
GS 9
I sacrifice all feelings of apathy. I take back this pure light to help me keep the Girl Scout
Law. I’ll make the world a better place.
GS 10 I sacrifice all unfriendly feelings. I take back this pure light to help me keep the Girl Scout
Law. I’ll be a sister to every Girl Scout.
All:
We all are Girl Scouts. Scouting teaches us to be good citizens by building our character
through training in intelligence, health and hard work, service and happiness. May God bless
us and make us good Girl Scouts and thus good citizens of this country.
Nickname Ceremony
Materials needed: glitter cut in large pieces (in other words, not the stuff you glue down on
paper)...or any other material for “sprinkling” on their heads, the poem, a name tag with the
nickname on it, and anything else you’d like to use to make this enjoyable.
With girls/adults all quietly assembled in a horseshoe, state that it is now time to begin the
“Nickname” ceremony, and read the following poem:
I knew a little mystery girl,
She was a friend of mine.
We knew each other from grade school,
It’s been a long, long time.
She had lots of pins and badges,
You see, she’d been everywhere;
They were on her sash and uniform,
But one thing wasn’t there.
This thing is like a special gift
That is given by someone special you know.
You can’t see it, touch it, taste or feel it,
But you’ll have it forever more!
I asked her if she had one.
She replied, “Can I buy it? What is that?”
I told her if she had one
She’d say YES right off the bat!
So my friend doesn’t have this special thing
That you will get today.
When she found out she couldn’t buy one,
She just hung her head and walked away.
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When you receive your special gift today,
Please hold it near and dear to your heart,
And remember how you got it,
No matter if we’re near or far apart.
Each one was chosen carefully
To fit you especially in and out!
Because you are one great bunch of girls to have,
That would make any leader shout!
Now I have you wondering,
Just what is she talking about?
Well, here goes, let’s give the first one,
To a super duper Girl Scout!
**At this time, go stand in front of the first girl who is receiving a “nickname,” and hold
your hand over her head and slowly let the glitter fall to her shoulders/head and say the
following:
Leader: “By the power invested in me as leader of Troop _____, I hearby bestow the following
name to (say girl’s name). On this day, (say the date), and forever more, you will now be
known as “(say the nickname)”. (pin the name tag on the girl’s shirt). **
Repeat ** this section for each girl/adult receiving a nickname
End the cermony with a song that is important to your troop, such as “Make New Friends.”