SigEp’s Ritual provides brothers an opportunity to celebrate and reflect on our values. Over the course of 108 years, it has connected more than 315,000 men to our Cardinal Principles of Virtue, Diligence and Brotherly Love. 

Tonight at the Gaylord Opryland Resort & Convention Center, SigEps from across the country witnessed a rare sight: the performance of two versions of the Sigma Phi Epsilon Ritual. The 1907 Ritual, adopted at our 4th Conclave, was performed side by side with the contemporary version practiced across the country today. 

“I’ve done this Ritual a few times,” said Michael Welch, Marquette ’16, “but getting to do it in front of brothers from across the country is just an amazing experience. To compare how we used to do it to how it has evolved today is just amazing.” 

SigEp District Governor Salvatore Moschelli, Lawrence Tech ’00, has been performing the Ritual at Conclave since 2001. “It’s one of the things I look forward to the most every Conclave with the Ritual Task Force,” he said.

Since 1907, there have been many revisions to the Ritual, all made in an effort to keep the language relevant to new generations. As brothers watched the two versions performed, they were able to see how constant the meaning and purpose has remained, despite changes to both the performance and language. 

This year, in addition to revising outdated language, SigEp unveiled new Ritual equipment to enhance the experience. 

“For the first time, at least in my time with the Fraternity, we have a set of equipment that really reflects our Ritual,” said Ritual taskforce member Marcus Robinson, Dayton ’99. “Rather than being paraphernalia that sort of fits the role, it’s equipment that has been specifically chosen, because it matches the words and the symbols in the Ritual.”

At the conclusion of the first night at Conclave, brothers reflected on the Ritual that binds our diverse brotherhood into one. With a weekend ahead to spend time with brothers nationwide, it is the belief and day-by-day practice of our Ritual that makes Conclave a weekend to remember.