 When we PLEDGE to Beta Sigma Phi we say this:
"I DO SOLEMNLY PROMISE TO UPHOLD THE HONOR AND THE AIMS OF BETA SIGMA PHI AS I NOW KNOW THEM."
The RITUALS of Beta Sigma Phi, the Pledge Ritual and rituals for each of the 6 degrees, are an established form of ceremony for us. They are symbolic representations of the spirit of sisterhood and of the determination of the members to improve themselves and, in this way, make a better world.
Our rituals in Beta Sigma Phi are a TRADITION ... that which binds and bonds us together. We highly value and respect our rituals because they provide a bond that makes working toward and facing tomorrow meaningful.
A woman's entrance into Beta Sigma Phi is a memorable moment, and well it should be! Making the moment as memorable as possible - "something our pledges will remember"- is the philosophy behind lovely rituals.
It is attention to detail that contributes to a memorable occasion.
Ritual ceremonies should be one of the most cherished events in the sorority life of Beta Sigma Phis. Assign the following duties:
- Arrange for (fresh, if possible) flowers and fresh candles [dip cotton ball in rubbing alcohol and wipe candles clean! Try it - it works!]
- Have ritual cloth cleaned and available
- Have candle holders cleaned
- Ask one member to be responsible for enough ventilation in the room - enough to offset the large amount of oxygen candles will use up
Other suggestions include:
- Develop a detailed system of planning your rituals
- Set-up the ritual room/table in advance
- To avoid drips, freeze your candles prior to using; also use protectors (made from paper circles and covered with white or gold doilies)
- Arrange pledges according to height, placing pledges in an attractive stair-step arrangement in the semi-circle, tallest in the center and shortest at the ends
- Music enhances the rituals - use Beta Sigma Phi songs or your favorite classics
- Show respect for your new members and the rituals by DRESSING UP accordingly
SILENCE IS TO BE OBSERVED DURING THE RITUALS
REHEARSE! PLAN .. PREPARE .. PRACTICE ..
As your sister in Beta Sigma Phi, and your Friend, my advice to you is simply this: GIVE THE BEST THAT IS IN YOU. Learn and then live the pledge you have made and the rituals you will receive. The beautiful words are only as meaningful as you make them; and truly living them could bring you happiness within that would shine in your eyes and on your face for everyone to see.
A RITUAL ISN'T MUCH GOOD UNLESS YOU PUT IT TO WORK!
BETA SIGMA PHI is learning a little something from everyone you have a chance to meet. It is offering a little of yourself to your chapter, other chapters and your sorority sisters.
It means LOVING, for you truly grow to love your sisters through the unity that is shared, and you begin to see the real beauty which glows from within every Beta Sigma Phi.
It means sharing with those less fortunate and extending your hand that says, "Come on ... catch hold ... you can do it ... I'm with you." |
