Equipment: Awards

Setting: Cubmaster calls the Den leader forward.

Cubmaster: Do we have any boys who desire to join our pack?

Den Leader: (comes forward) Akela, I have a boy who has shown his desire to join our pack.

Cubmaster: How has he shown his desire?

Den Leader: He has studied the Bobcat requirements and understands the purpose of Cub Scouting.

Cubmaster: Does he come alone?

Den Leader: No, his parents wish to join the pack also.

Cubmaster: Fine, bring him up. (Den Chief escorts new Bobcat candidate and his parents to the front.)  What is your name?

(boy answers)

I understand you wish to become a member of our pack.

 (boy answers)

Do you know the Law of the Pack?

(boy answers)

Are you prepared to try to follow the Cub Scout ideals and obey the law?

(boy answers)

Are you prepared to work hard and to advance in rank?  Are you willing to do your best? 

(boy answers)

Good.  You are about to start on the Cub Scout trail.  Please repeat with me the Law of the Pack. (Cubmaster and boy repeats law.)

(To parents) Cub Scouting is a family pro-gram.  Parents have certain responsibilities too.  They are expected to help their son advance in rank.  They are expected to attend pack meetings with their son, and help at other times when called upon.  Are you willing to do these things to help your son achieve the goals and fun that will be his in Cub Scouting?

(parents answer)

(To boy and parents) You are starting the Cub Scout trail which leads to the great game of Scouting.  May each of you be happy in our pack. (Cubmaster shakes hands with boy and parents.)

(pinning on Bobcat pin) I am pinning on this Bobcat pin upside down.  After you have done your first good turn which is approved by your parents, you may turn it right side up.  Welcome to our pack.

This ceremony should have an Indian motif to make them more dramatic.  The more costumes, feathers, etc. used the better.  With modification, this ceremony can be used as a continuous event or separated into parts as the occasion calls for.