Being a member of the Lodge of Ondessonk & Tekakwitha is more than an honor; it’s an invitation to stay connected to Camp, serve others, build friendships, and carry the Spirit of Ondessonk beyond the Camp Gate.
There are countless ways to be an active Lodge member, but here are 10 things every Lodge member should experience at least once. Some may challenge you, some may take you outside your comfort zone, and some may simply give you another reason to come home to Camp.
- Participate in a Lodge Reunion
There’s something special about returning to Camp with people who share your love for Ondessonk. Held each spring and fall, Lodge Reunions provide an opportunity to reconnect while also giving back to the place we all love.
From service projects to shared meals, campfires, Mass, and time spent catching up with fellow Lodge members, a reunion is a great reminder that Camp is always waiting for you to come home.
The best part? Lodge Reunions are free for active Lodge members and are one of the most meaningful ways to give back to the place that has given so much to so many.
2. Serve Camp and your Community
One of the best ways to engage with Lodge is simply to roll up your sleeves and get to work. Service can take many forms, from helping maintain Camp’s property to lending your skills to a project in your own community.
And sometimes, service means learning something new. Have you ever learned to sew Lodge sashes? Learning this Camp tradition is a fun way to connect with Lodge history while developing a skill you can pass along to someone else.
Whether you spend an afternoon repairing, building, sewing, cleaning, organizing, or serving others, your contribution matters.
3. Take Part in Your Council’s Activities
Your Council is your local connection to the Lodge, and getting involved is one of the easiest ways to stay engaged throughout the year.
Attend Council gatherings, participate in activities, help with projects, and get to know the other Lodge members in your area. You may discover that your Council becomes one of the best ways to keep the Camp friendships going long after summer ends.
Don’t just be a member of your Council, be part of it.
4. Attend Lodge Camp
Lodge Camp is a chance to experience Summer Camp in a whole new way. As a Lodge member, you already know and love Camp, and Lodge Camp builds on that experience with activities and adventures designed specifically for members who are ready for something more.
From high ropes and rappelling to flaming arrows, beach parties, and other special activities, the week offers familiar Camp experiences with an added level of challenge, freedom, and excitement.
Lodge Camp is also about putting the Lodge’s commitment to service into action. Throughout the week, campers work together on projects that help improve Camp while also serving as positive role models for younger campers. Lodge Camp is an experience you will not want to miss.
5. Participate in a Lodge Ceremony
Lodge ceremonies are an important part of the traditions that connect members across generations. If you’ve never taken an active role in one, look for an opportunity to participate.
You might hold a torch, serve as a trail guide, assist with preparations, or take on another role that helps create a meaningful experience for fellow Lodge members.
Ceremonies aren’t just something to watch; they’re something to be part of. Ask how you can help, learn the traditions, and experience the meaning behind them firsthand.
6. Earn Your Lodge Arrowhead
Set a goal to earn your Lodge arrowhead!
The Lodge Arrowhead is earned by Lodge Members who demonstrate their commitment to The Loyal Lodge of Ondessonk and Tekakwitha through service, participation, and support of Camp Ondessonk. The Lodge Arrowhead is the only arrowhead that should be worn on your Lodge sash.
Not sure where to start? Review the requirements and watch for opportunities to complete your arrowhead requirements. Make a plan, check items off your list, and celebrate when you earn it.
7. Host a Third-Party Fundraiser
Put your creativity and Camp spirit to work by organizing a fundraiser for Camp Ondessonk!
It could be as simple as a neighborhood event, a benefit night, a friendly competition, a bake sale, or something completely unique. The goal isn’t just to raise money. It’s to bring other people into the Camp community and give them an opportunity to support the mission.
A third-party fundraiser allows you to share your passion for Camp while helping provide future campers with the same opportunities you’ve experienced.
8. Hike to Reunion Rock
Some Camp traditions are about the destination. Others are about the journey.
Make the hike to Reunion Rock at least once and experience one of the places that connects Lodge members to Camp’s history and traditions. Bring a friend, take your time, enjoy the scenery, and appreciate the opportunity to explore the land that has been such an important part of the Camp experience for generations.
And, of course, once you reach the rock, take a moment to enjoy being there. You earned it!
9. Be an Active Participant in Band
Being part of the Lodge means having a voice in its future. Band is an important part of that process.
Make an effort to learn about what’s happening in your Council and throughout the Lodge. Pay attention to Council activities, understand the issues and opportunities facing the Lodge, and participate when it’s time to vote on Council leadership.
Your involvement matters. The Lodge is strongest when members don’t simply belong; they show up, participate, and help shape what comes next.
10. Represent Camp in Your Community
Being a Lodge member doesn’t end when you leave the Shawnee. You are one of Camp’s ambassadors all year long.
Look for opportunities to represent Camp in your own community. Walk in a local parade wearing your Camp gear and Lodge sash. Tell your church about Summer Camp. Share Camp information with families, schools, youth groups, or community organizations. Invite someone to learn more about the experience that has meant so much to you.
You never know when one conversation, one Camp shirt, or one invitation might introduce a future camper to Ondessonk.
What Will You Check Off First?
Lodge membership gives you countless opportunities to serve, lead, explore, reconnect, and carry the spirit of Camp into the world. You don’t have to do everything at once. Start with one.
Maybe this is the year you hike to Reunion Rock. Maybe you’ll finally attend Lodge Camp, volunteer for a ceremony, or organize your first fundraiser. Whatever you choose, make the most of your Lodge membership.
Ten things. One Lodge. A lifetime of Camp memories. What will you do first?
