Who We Are
The Order of the Eastern Star is the largest fraternal organization in the world to which both women and men may belong. Worldwide, there are approximately 1 million members under the
General 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 principles 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 all faiths, except no faith. The personal welfare of our members is vital to all of those in the Eastern Star, and it is considered a privilege to help another member whenever we can.
Purposes
The stated purposes of the organization are: Charitable, Educational, Fraternal and Scientific; but there is much more to it than that. Dr. Rob Morris, the Poet Laureate of Masonry, founded the Order using the beautiful and inspiring biblical examples of heroic conduct and moral values. These portray the noble principles which should adorn the personal lives of Eastern Star members. Eastern Star strives to take good people and through uplifting and elevating associations of love and service, and through precept and example build an Order which is truly dedicated to charity, truth and loving kindness.
Projects
Concrete evidence of the charitable nature of the organization as it affects others is the millions of dollars which have been raised within the membership to support national, jurisdictional, and local charities. Many Grand Jurisdictions have homes for their senior members.
Membership Requirements
The membership in the Order of the Easter Star is restricted to Master Masons in good standing and the following female relatives of Master Masons which must be 18 years or older:
Wives - Widows – Daughters – Sisters - Mothers
Step-Mothers – Half-Sisters - Step Daughters
Step-Sisters – Grandmothers – Granddaughters
Nieces – Mothers-in-Law - Great Granddaughters
Legally Adopted Daughters
Members of the International Order of Rainbow for Girls
The International Order of Job’s Daughters
(Active for 3 years or have reached their majority)
The Master Mason does not need to belong to the Order of the Eastern Star in order for a woman to join.
A petitioner should be of good moral character, believe in a Supreme Being, be willing to assume the obligation of the Order and be able to attend the Ceremony of Initiation
A woman may use her affiliation with a Master Mason that has passed away, providing the Master Mason was a member in good standing at the time of his death.
For further information you are invited to download the attached pamphlet which reiterates much of what is said here, and includes an petition to join the Order is you are so inclined.
Please visit the Subordinate Chapters page to locate a chapter in your area. If you are unsure, you can contact the Grand Secretary or the Webmaster of this site for assistance or further information
Informational Pamphlet & Petition
