Arrow of Light Crossover Ceremony
Scouts who have earned the Arrow of Light badge cross over from Cub Scouting to a Scouts BSA troop. The ceremony honors their achievement and welcomes them to their next Scouting adventure. It involves the Scoutmaster and troop youth leaders from the receiving troop. Targeting January or February ensures Scouts can attend troop campouts before summer camp and integrate with their new troop.
Overview
The Arrow of Light is the highest award in Cub Scouting. The crossover ceremony marks a significant milestone, celebrating the Scout’s accomplishments and formally transitioning them to the next level of Scouting. This is an emotional and joyful moment for families and the pack community.
Recent Example
2025 Arrow of Light Crossover (April 10, 2025 at Lawson Lake County Park)
- Venue: Lawson Lake amphitheater and Waldman lodge, 5:00–8:00pm
- April pack meeting time adjusted to accommodate ceremony schedule
- Crossing over bridge and formal ceremonial elements
- Troop Scoutmaster and youth leaders in attendance
Ceremony Elements
Typical crossover ceremonies include:
- Recognition of Arrow of Light achievements and path in Cub Scouting
- Introduction of receiving Scouts BSA troop(s) and their Scoutmaster
- Remarks from troop leadership about the transition to Scouts BSA
- Crossing over ritual (ceremonial bridge walk, sash transfer, or other traditional element)
- Awards and certificate presentation
- Scout and parent remarks
- Reception and fellowship time
Timeline / Checklist
| When | Task |
|---|---|
| September | AOL den leader connects with local Scouts BSA troops early |
| October–November | Confirm which Scouts will earn Arrow of Light |
| December | Cubmaster and AOL den leader confirm receiving troop(s) and ceremony date |
| December | Advancement Chair orders AOL badges and certificates |
| January–February | Finalize ceremony logistics (venue, program, ceremonial elements) |
| January–February | Execute crossover ceremony |
Coordination with Scouts BSA Troops
- Meet with Scoutmaster(s) to discuss ceremony format and their role
- Confirm troop representation (Scoutmaster, youth leaders, possibly older Scouts)
- Share ceremony timeline and any special requests
- Provide advance notice of Scout names and ranks
Roles Involved
- Cubmaster – leads the ceremony, coordinates with receiving Scoutmaster, emcees program
- Den Leader (AOL den) – prepares Scouts and families for the transition, can offer remarks
- Advancement Chair – orders and presents Arrow of Light awards and certificates
- AOL Crossover Coordinator – manages ceremony logistics, coordinates with troops, arranges venue and props
| Task | Role | When | Owner | |—|—|—|—|
| AOL: Arrow of Light Badges & Certificates | recognition | Nov | advancement-chair |
| AOL: Arrow of Light Badges & Certificates | recognition | Dec | advancement-chair |
| Arrow of Light Crossover: Troop Coordination | recognition | Dec | cubmaster |
| AOL Crossover: Confirm Troops & Ceremony Format | recognition | Dec | aol-crossover-coordinator |
| Arrow of Light Crossover Ceremony | recognition | Jan | cubmaster |
| Arrow of Light Crossover Ceremony | recognition | Feb | cubmaster |