Invocations and Pledges
Optional club meeting rolesInvocations
The invocation – usually a prayer or inspirational thought – is an optional part of club, area, division and district Toastmasters meetings. The organization neither encourages nor discourages invocations, but recognizes that they are a public speaking opportunity and may be included to broaden member experience. Club leaders should remind members giving an invocation that they need to be sensitive to the diversity of cultures and religions in the audience.
Some clubs have replaced invocations with a thought for the day or an inspirational message.
Pledges A pledge to the flag or other recognition of the host country is another optional part of Toastmasters meetings. Each individual member’s participation in the pledge is optional, and club leaders should ensure that members are not pressured into taking part.
Members decide at the club level It is up to each club to decide whether or not to include an invocation, thought for the day, inspirational message, and/or pledge at each meeting. The decision is made by majority vote at a club’s business meeting when a majority of active members is present. Club leaders are responsible for arranging and abiding by this vote.