The Badge Archive

This is for a ceremony only. It does not meet the Rainbow Bridging badge requirements. Troops should earn their Rainbow Bridging badge at a troop meeting prior to this ceremony, where they are awarded their Rainbow Bridge badge.

Preparation:

• Old Level Formation: Old Level Girl Scouts form a horseshoe at one side of the room.
• New Level Formation: New Level Girl Scouts form a horseshoe at the opposite side, with the open ends facing each other.
• Transition Space: The area between the formations symbolizes the bridging transition.

Items Needed:

• Symbolic bridge or transition element
• Girl Scout Pins for new Cadettes
• Basket of flowers
• Song lyrics or music for sing-alongs
• Prepared ceremony script

Instructions:

1. Welcome and Acknowledgment:
   The Old Level Leader addresses the group:
   “We present to you [number] Girl Scouts who have completed their last year in <Old Level> Girl Scouting. They have diligently worked on badges, signs, and service. Now, they dedicate themselves to following the Girl Scout ways and wish to join the ranks of <New Level> Girl Scouts.
   Girls, dedicate the coming years with all it brings to see, Not asking for a path of ease,
   But one of victory. The bridge into <New Level> Girl Scouting is long, and its span reaches high, But the handshake of welcome awaits you, With opportunity as high as the sky!”
2. Crossing the Bridge:
   One by one, Old Level Scouts cross the bridge as their names are called. Each is greeted by the New Level Leader with a Girl Scout handshake and is escorted into the New Level horseshoe by a New Level Girl Scout.
3. Cadette Welcome and Promise:
   When all the bridging Old Level Scouts have joined the New Level horseshoe, a Old Level Leader or Girl Scout says:
   “You’ve crossed one bridge and you’re on your way.
   <New Level> Girl Scouts have a challenge that’s true,
   With laws to live by and a Promise to say,
   There’s work in this world to do.
   So eagerly take up each challenge,
   And to meet many needs, prepare.
   In your home, in your town, in your country,
   Your skills and your vision do share.
   Please join me in repeating the Girl Scout Promise.”
   Everyone recites the Girl Scout Promise together.
4. Celebratory Song:
   Following the Promise, everyone sings “On My Honor.”
5. Congratulations:
   The New Level Leader says:
   “We would like to congratulate and welcome the new <New Level> Girl Scouts.”
   Applause and celebration follow.
6. Optional Rededication Ceremony:
   The New Level Leader or Girl Scout says:
   “These flowers represent the spirit of Girl Scouting. Join with me now as we rededicate ourselves to living the Girl Scout Law.” A New Level Girl Scout walks around the inside of the horseshoe with a basket of flowers, handing one to each participant. As each flower is handed out, the group recites a part of the Girl Scout Law. If there are more participants than parts of the law, two flower types can represent the law, the motto, and the slogan.
7. Closing Song:
   Conclude the ceremony with the group singing “Girl Scouts Together.”

Reference:

Bridging Ceremonies by GSEM

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For More Fun Ideas and Plans

for Daisy, Brownie, and Junior Scouts

This is a supportive Facebook community for Daisy, Brownie, and Junior Girl Scout leaders. Whether you’re seeking advice, fresh ideas, or meeting plans, you’re in the right place! Let’s inspire each other, share our experiences, and make every troop meeting a memorable adventure.

for Cadette, Senior, and Ambassador Scouts

This is a supportive community for Cadette, Senior, and Ambassador Girl Scout leaders. This group offers solutions to keep older scouts engaged in scouting amidst their busy lives. Share strategies, tackle challenges, and exchange ideas for fun, meaningful activities that resonate with teens and build lasting connections.

Find out how you can support The Badge Archive!

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• Return to the GSUSA Bridging page.
• Return to the GSUSA Ceremonies page.

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• Return to the Daisy Badge List.
• Return to the Brownie Badge List.
• Return to the Junior Badge List.
• Return to the Cadette Badge List.
• Return to the Senior Badge List.
• Return to the Ambassador Badge List.

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