Rituals exist to share the secret meanings of the sorority/fraternity, impart knowledge specific to being a full initiated member and to bind all the members together (worldwide) with a common ritual. These rituals may or may not include religious quotes, readings from the Bible, display of symbols, specific actions (such as learning a secret handshake or grip) and signing a book as a fully initiated member. To the best of my knowledge, every national fraternity/sorority has beautiful rituals that are held very dear to their members. They are not dangerous nor do they include anything that would compromise you as a person. I would say that 99% of ritual performed by local and regional groups would fall into this 'lovely' category as well. There are some groups that,unfortunately, use their ritual as a means to degrade or intimidate their members. This reflects badly on all of us.
If you have questions about the contents of a chapter's ritual ask them. They will tell you most of what you need to know to calm your fears. Personally I relive my experience of joining my fraternity any time I witness a Pledging or Initation. I feel honored that as an Alumnae Chapter President, I lead the rituals of the Alumnae World - showing my love for my Fraternity in this most special way.
Barbara
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