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.
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. 😊
Spirit of AZA
Spirit of BBG
Spirit of BBG
Spirit of BBG
Spirit of AZA and BBG
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.
AZA Opening and Closing RitualsBBG Opening and Closing RitualsBBYO Opening and Closing Rituals
Installations is a ceremony that takes place to formally acknowledge and celebrate the incoming and outgoing boards on the Chapter, Regional, or International levels of BBYO.
Installations Script
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.
AZA Inductions ScriptBBG Inductions Script
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. 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.
About Life CeremoniesLifetime Membership CertificatesBelieve it or not, our Movement has existed for nearly 100 years. AZA was founded May 3, 1924 and BBG was founded April 22, 1944. The history and the traditions we've kept alive are what make BBYO so special.
Explore an interactive timeline of our history in the link below or read through the AZA and BBG membership manuals for a more in-depth experience.
There are important dates to keep in mind when prioritizing Israel programming and experiences. Israel programming and community opportunities happen regularly on BBYO On Demand through the Explore Israel Committee and partner organizations.
Campaign
April 22, 2026
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The birthday of AZA is April 22, 1944! Chapters honor the founding of BBG with celebrations, traditions, reuniting with alumni, and more.
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🧭 Learn More→
Campaign
April 26, 2026
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A day of Movement pride where members wear AZA, BBG, and BBYO swag.
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Campaign
May 3, 2026
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The birthday of AZA is May 3, 1924! Chapters honor the founding of AZA with celebrations, traditions, reuniting with alumni, and more.
📆 Add to Calendar →
🧭 Learn More→
Campaign
May 3, 2026
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May 31, 2026
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Celebrate the founding of AZA & BBG throughout the month of May with celebrations, traditions, reuniting with alumni, and more.
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By keeping our traditions alive, you may be eligible for several highly esteemed AZA and BBG International Awards.
Explore International AwardsWant to keep learning? Explore more in the Toolbox!
Resource
Learn the lyrics to BBG's pep songs to lead with confidence at meetings and conventions. The songs can also be found in the BBG Red Book (Membership Manual).
ExploreResource
Ideas for communities to show appreciation and gratitude to graduating seniors.
ExploreResource
Understand why we run Movement Initiatives and how it ties to our year-round MRIHA strategy.
ExploreResource
Birkat HaMazon is a prayer of gratitude said at the end of meals. Use this card at conventions and events to help members participate in this ritual moment.
ExploreVideo
Get to know what makes AZA & BBG so special: the rituals that are decades old and the traditions we build around them.
ExploreVideo
Learn the "No Man is an Island" cheer for your next spirit circle.
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Honor and celebrate a guest by inducting them as an Honorary Member of your AZA Chapter.
Explore
