The Loyal Lodge of Ondessonk & Tekakwitha
When you arrive at Camp Ondessonk for Summer Camp, you may notice staff, campers, and volunteers wearing multi-colored sashes and wonder about their origin. These sashes identify members of the Loyal Lodge of Ondessonk & Tekakwitha, a service organization at the heart of Camp Ondessonk. This special group is made up of extraordinary individuals, including campers, O.W.L.s, staff, and volunteers who have demonstrated exceptional love and dedication to Camp. More than a title, Lodge membership is a commitment to living out the values of Camp every day, in every setting.
A Tradition Older Than Camp Ondessonk
The Loyal Lodge of Ondessonk & Tekakwitha was established in 1957 at Camp St. Philip, a summer camp program for children from St. Philip Parish and School located in East St. Louis. After two successful summers and interest from other Diocese of Belleville parishes, Camp St. Philip evolved into Camp Ondessonk in 1959. Many aspects of Camp St. Philip, like the Lodge, are still an important part of the camper experience.
United in Service and Spirit
All Lodge members have one very special thing in common: a love of and dedication to Camp Ondessonk and the outdoors. Members serve as ambassadors of Camp Ondessonk, carrying the Camp Spirit with them into the world and striving to make a difference in their communities.
During the summer season, Lodge members help welcome new inductees during weekly Lodge Ceremonies held on Thursday evenings. This special event honors the commitment of new members while reminding all participants of the values that unite the Camp community.
Lodge service doesn’t end with the summer. During the Education & Recreation Season, members stay connected and active through year-round opportunities such as fundraisers and service weekends, as well as local engagement through Lodge Councils.
How Do Campers Become Lodge Members?
There are several pathways to Lodge membership, each designed to recognize the many different ways a person can show their dedication to Camp.
- Peer Election or Staff Nomination: During each week of Summer Camp, every unit may elect or nominate up to two campers for Lodge membership. These individuals have impressed others through their actions, leadership, and character.
- Lodge Packets: Introduced to broaden access to Lodge more than 30 years ago, packets give campers a chance to demonstrate their commitment to Camp outside of the summer season. Not all candidates are outgoing or naturally noticed in a group setting, so the Lodge Packets ensure that equally devoted campers have an opportunity to be recognized. Importantly, campers accepted through packets do not count against a unit’s weekly nominations.
Regardless of how a person is inducted, every Lodge member is expected to uphold the same high standard of service, character, and love for Camp Ondessonk.
Living the Lodge Mission
Being in the Lodge of Ondessonk & Tekakwitha isn’t just an honor, it’s a responsibility. Members are expected to live out the values of Camp both at Ondessonk and in their everyday lives. These values include Compassion, Honesty, Loyalty, Respect, and Excellence. They represent Camp’s mission through their kindness, leadership, and service to others.