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BMP Confusion
Traditional1,
First, the same ceremony takes place when you become a Sigma or a Pledge. In our chapter, the Sigma Challenge lasts 12 weeks, involves study and gym hours, learning the LROB, the songs etc. It usually ends with a major event the night before the Sigmas go through the Phi rite of passage.
The Phi Rite of Passage is the same ritual as the Initiation in traditional chapters, but cut off at a certain point. Check your ritual books to see where this is. In our chapter, another semester and a half passes before the Phi's can progress through the Epsilon Rite of Passage. This is the same, full ritual as you experienced.
There is strong sigma class unity in our chapter, but there is a greater bond between all brothers. The biggest difference I see is that sigmas are considered brothers, while pledges are not. I agree with you that this can cause problems; however, it also solves many problems such as hazing etc. One brother currently in our chapter is a transfer from a traditional chapter. At first he had great hesitations about the BMP, but after actually seeing it implemented in a way that appreciates the benefits of a traditional chapter, its obvious that it can work well.
By the way, I also agree with the issues of nationals pushing numbers and turning this into a business. I love SigEp, appreciate good traditional and BMP chapters, but have no tolerance for Tragos Phi Epsilon. Oh and EDGE sucks.
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