ORDER of the EASTERN STAR
Heritage: Dr. Rob Morris, a creative genious, recognized the need for an organization where families might benefit from Fraternal teachings. Dr. Morris created the Degrees of the Eastern Star around the lives of five Biblical women. They were Adah, Ruth, Margaret, Esther and Electa. The reason was, that each of these Biblical examples stands for one of the tenants of the Order. They are Fidelity, Constancy, Loyalty, Faith and Love. Through his foresight and understanding we share the priceless lessons of our religious heritage. We are humbly grateful for his inspiration and competence.
Purpose: The Order of the Eastern Star is the largest fraternal organization in the world to which both men and women may belong. Worldwide, there are currently more than one million members under the Grand Chapter.
Eastern Star is a social order comprised of persons with spiritual values but it is not a religion. Its appeal rests in the true beauty of the refreshing and character-building lessons that are so sincerely portrayed in its ritualistic work. A deep fraternal bond exists between its members. It is the wholesome relationship of sisterly and brotherly love brought about through high principlas exemplified in our lives which makes us near and dear to each other.
While this is an Order composed of people of deep spiritual convictions, it is open to people of all faiths. The personal welfare of our members is vital to all of those in the Eastern Star and it is considered a privilege to help anither member whenever we can.
Our Generosity: Eastern Star Training Award for Religious Leadership is given to assist seminary students. Over $ 126,000 have been gi ven thus far.
Cancer Research: Grants for cancer research and cancer patient assistance of more than $ 48,000 has been donated by Eastern Star.
Heart Fund: The Ohio Heart Association received about $ 18,000 from donations, projects and chapter sunshine collections.
Eastern Star Membership
Only men who are Masons in good standing and women with specific Masonic affilliation may join. These affilliations include:
Wives or Widows Daughters Mothers Sisters Step-Daughters Granddaughters Grandmothers
Step-Sisters Greatgranddaughters Daughters-in-law Mother-in-law Sisters-in-law Nieces Majority Rainbow Girls Majority Jobs Daughters
Who shall have reached the age of eighteen (18) years, are eligible to membership in the Order of the Eastern Star.
How to join: To inquire about membership, talk to a current member, or contact the Chapter secretary. Petitions are carefully read, eligibilty investigated and election to membership must be by unanimous vote. The Order strives to select persons of mental, moral and spiritual quality who will work togather in harmony to perform its objectives.
Frequently Asked Questions:
Q. Is the Order of the Eastern Star a secret society?
N. No. Secret societies are underground and hard to find. We are easily found within the community but we enjoy a distinctive means of identifying each other. Only members are allowed in a closed meeting.
Q. Can I afford membership in the Order of the Eastern Star?
A. Yes. Financial position is not considered in the Order. Members come from all economic stations in life.
Q. Is my religious faith allowed in the Order of the Eastern Star?
A. Yes. Members of all religions may belong to the Eastern Star. We only require a belief in a supreme being.
Q. Is the Order of the Eastern Star time consuming?
A. After your Initiation into our Order, you amy attend as your time permits.
Q. Is there any memory work?
A. There is no mandatory memory work except the means of making yourself known if you wish to visit a Chapter or you become an officer.
Q. Is the Order patriotic or democratic?
A. Yes. Members are taught an allegiance to preserve the good of their country.
