Description: The Chapter should conduct initiation and monthly Formal Meetings in accordance with the Ritual of Phi Delta Chi. All Brothers should be knowledgeable about the Ritual, and the Chapter Officers should be completely conversant about the parts of the Ritual. The Chapter should preserve local history with the establishment of an archive or other means to help catalog and account for historical documents. The archives should be stored in such a way as to minimize damage and theft.
Ritual
The Chapter should conduct initiation and monthly Formal Meetings in accordance with the Ritual of Phi Delta Chi. Advisors are also encouraged to participate in Ritual. Resources on Phi Delta Chi Ritual are available on the National Website, but it is important to note that you must log in to the website first before accessing such materials. All Brothers should be knowledgeable about the Ritual, and the Chapter Officers should be completely conversant about the parts of the Ritual. Each Worthy Officer should memorize their part, eliminating dependence on reading in the low-light setting of Ritual. All Brothers in attendance of Ritual must dress in appropriate professional attire and wear their Brother pins. Brothers not in compliance with the dress code may be charged a fee in accordance with the Chapter Constitution and Bylaws.
One challenge Advisors may face related to Ritual is the storage of Chapter history, secret fraternity documents and items. For advice on storage, please click here .
History
Advisors are encouraged to be familiar with the history of the Fraternity as well as ensure Candidates and Brothers are properly educated on the history of the Fraternity. Understanding the origin/history of a Chapter is of paramount importance as it helps to define the meaning of the Chapter and is the common bond that ties all Brothers together. By understanding the Chapter history, one is better armed to address questions to a non-Brother, those considering candidacy, and those Brothers that may not share the same level of passion for the Fraternity. For those who are non-Brothers, the reputation and credibility of the fraternity is better understood.
In 5, 10, or 20 years from now, how will future Brothers be able to reflect on the evolution and progress of the Chapter? How will they recognize the success of the Chapter and the Brothers who contributed to the advancement of our profession? By preserving our history today, we can better tell these stories tomorrow.