Together as one, forever united as one crew
Since 1924, we open and close our meetings the same way, recite the same words during inductions, and sing spirit songs that have stood the test of time. These moments enhance the brotherhood and sisterhood in our chapters and are what make our Movement so special.
Our ritual moments are what make us feel like a movement. You can enter a room in San Francisco or Buenos Aires and expect to hear the same words to open or close a meeting. It's important that every Aleph and BBG learns how to open a meeting, lead a good-and-welfare, give life, and sing our spirit songs. These rituals have been kept alive for almost a century and it's on every generation to teach the next what these moments look and feel like.
At the beginning or end of every AZA and BBG business gathering, the board will lead opening or closing rituals. These rituals are part of formal meetings and business, including elections or executive meetings. These rituals remind us of the purpose of our meeting, and ultimately, why we participate in AZA and BBG. Be sure to always have a copy on hand. AZA and BBG opening rituals are also in the Blue and Red Books, our official membership manuals.
Toward the end of each semester/season, chapters will hold inductions ceremonies to officially welcome Alephs-In-Training (AITs) and Members-In-Training (MITs) into AZA and BBG. Inductions are a beautiful and memorable moment for every one of our members as it marks the beginning of their lifelong journey in BBYO. Inductions happen at every level of AZA and BBG.
At conventions, summer programs, chapter overnights, and more, you'll often hear the pep-songs of our Orders. These spirit songs ignite the brotherhood and sisterhood between Alephs and BBGs. Learn the lyrics, sing loudly, and have a lot of fun!
Heads up: you may lose your voice for a few days after one of our spirit circles. 😊
At the end of your AZA or BBG high school experience, you'll have the opportunity to pass on your wisdom to the next generation and thank those who made your experience so special. Read through some Life Pages from the 93rd Grand Board and 73rd International Board to get an idea of what it means to give life.
And, remember, graduation isn't goodbye. You'll always be recognized as a Lifetime Member of BBYO, and we'll welcome you to participate in alumni opportunities to support, advise, and staff BBYO programs.
There are important dates to keep in mind when prioritizing AZA and BBG rituals and traditions. These dates include hands-on training opportunities, Movement mobilization moments, registration dates, and relevant programs that tie to our traditions. Keep an eye out for opportunities to celebrate BBG's 75th anniversary.
Fall Semester 2018
August 9
Ceremony to officially pass the torch to the new International Board.
August 9
Watch our International Presidents share their vision for our Movement this year.
August 9-12
A convening of all community presidents to launch the year.
October 4
See our rituals in full force alongside thousands from around the world.
November 1
Register for CLTC to learn how to bring AZA and BBG rituals home to your chapter.
November-Decembe
Welcome the new class of Alephs or BBGs to your community.
Spring Semester 2019
February 13-18
See our rituals in full force alongside thousands from around the world.
February 17
Elections for the 95th Grand Board of AZA and 75th International Board of BBG.
April-May
Welcome the new class of Alephs or BBGs to your community.
April 22
Celebrate BBG's 75th anniversary with your chapter. This is a great day to do an inductions ceremony.
April 26
Wear your best AZA and BBG swag around town to show your pride for our Movement.
May 3
Celebrate AZA's 95th anniversary with your chapter. This is a great day to do an inductions ceremony.
Want to keep learning? Explore more ritual and traditions below!
We love pins in AZA and BBG. The most important pin is your membership pin, which you will receive when you are inducted. There are other pins you can earn for qualifying for awards and serving in elected leadership positions. Familiarize yourself with what these pins look like and contact your local staff member if you need some for an upcoming program.
ExploreIn 1928, Boris D. Bogen introduced the Five Folds to AZA. The Folds encourage members to offer well-rounded programs that incorporate many of AZA and BBG's values. High-quality programming is a part of what makes BBYO special.
The Six Folds of the B’nai B’rith Girls are Jewish Heritage, Community Service, Social Action, Recreation, Creativity, and Sisterhood.
The Five Folds of the Aleph Zadik Aleph are Athletic, Community Service/Social Action, Education, Judaic, and Social.
Learn more about how to utilize these folds in your programming.
Learn how to build brotherhood or sisterhood in your chapter and create a culture of praise and celebration by facilitating Good and Welfare sessions at the end of meetings and programs.
ExploreOrder special cards to give new members when you are inviting them to join (bid cards) or inducting them as an Aleph or BBG (membership cards). Contact your local staff to order the cards from BBYO's print shop.
ExploreAZA and BBG have a rich history. It's important that our new members are educated about where our Orders have been and how we have impacted the world. Current Alephs and BBGs should feel a part of this story.
History of AZAHerstory of BBGIn 1925, the Aleph Zadik Aleph created the Shofar newsletter. Today, the Shofar is a digital newsletter embedded right into this site and managed by our Press Corps. Keep up with all of the latest news around the Movement and contribute your own content.
ExploreFor keeping our traditions alive—we want to celebrate you. By cheering our songs and honoring our rituals, you may be eligible for a number of highly esteemed AZA and BBG International Awards including the Henry Monsky Chapter Excellence, Miriam Albert Chapter Excellence, and Maurice Bisgyer Chapter Excellence Awards. If you know an Aleph or BBG who deserves to be recognized for their work strengthening our priorities, consider nominating them for the Menorah Pledge and Cardinal Principles Awards.
Learn more about your eligibility by exploring these awards below:
