Kwanzaa started out in the 1960’s as an alternative December holiday for African Americans. Like many holidays, it has morphed over the years and broadened. Now it is celebrated in many African American households. In Christian African American homes, it is celebrated along with Christmas.
This ceremony is based on a Kwanzaa ceremony in the old BSA Cub Scout program helps. It relates the seven principles of Kwanzaa to the values of Cub Scouting. It goes along well with the December theme of respect also.
Kwanzaa Candle Ceremony
People
Leader – Could be a Den Leader or a Den Chief
Scouts – seven Cub Scouts
Materials
Seven candles
Matches
Ceremony
Leader: Kwanzaa is an African American holiday which is based on seven principles. We will light a candle for each principal and relate it to Cub Scouts.
Leader (lighting the first candle): Unity
Scout 1: As Cub Scouts, we work together in our homes, dens, pack, and community
Leader (lighting the second candle): Self-Determination
Scout 2: As Cub Scouts, we do our best
Leader (lighting the third candle): Collective Work and Responsibility
Scout 3: As Cub Scouts, we do our duty to country and help other people
Leader (lighting the fourth candle): Cooperative Economics
Scout 4: As Cub Scouts, we know that the Scout Law says that a Scout is thrifty
Leader (lighting the fifth candle): Purpose
Scout 5: As Cub Scouts, we do conservation projects and Good Turns
Leader (lighting the sixth candle): Creativity
Scout 6: As Cub Scouts, we express creativity through music, skits, and art
Leader (lighting the seventh candle): Faith
Scout 7: As Cub Scouts, we do our duty to God
