A friendly tone is set for the entire meeting when a boy is met by his ranger's smile and personal greeting. As boys arrive, they go directly to their post room or meeting area. The post ranger is there to greet them. A game or special interest center helps to focus the attention of members while the ranger talks with individuals, often using achievements as a starting point. Each post is then ready for an orderly formation when the call comes.
Shares are the voluntary contributions of the boys toward the expenses of their group.
The opening formation provides a colorful ceremony for assembling the entire group. It can lead to a spirit of cooperation among the ranger and his boys as they work together to meet acceptable standards. At once leaders and boys take their places in formation. The rangers, together with the lookouts and couriers, are the key to quick formations. Then a brief prayer commits the meeting to the Lord.