WHAT IS THE ORDER OF THE EASTERN STAR
HISTORY:
Dr Robert Morris, the poet laureate of Masonry, founded this Order using beautiful and inspiring biblical examples of heroic conduct and moral values. These portray the mobile principles which should adorn the personal lives of Eastern Star members. Eastern Star Strives to build an environment for out members and our Order which is truly dedicated to Charity, Truth and Loving Kindness by uplifting each other and through service in our communities
The Order of the Eastern Star was founded by Dr. Rob Morris in the laste 1800's. As a Master Mason, Dr. Morris had the idea that it would be nice to have a way for female relatives of Master Masons to share the benefits of knowledge and self-improvement that Freemasonry made available to men and to have a place in the Masonc Family that would allow men and women to participate together.
Dr. Morris and his wife Charlotte worked on this idea of a Masonic fraternal order for Master Masons and their female relatives for many years. In 1850, Dr. Morris selected the Biblical heroines and the lessons and values of the Order. He established the signs and passes, colors and emblems of the Order and defined the fundamental priciples which have remained unchanged throughout the years. The first ceremony book for the Order was compiled and published under the title of "The Rosary of the Eastern Star".
In 1866, Dr. Morris became associated with Mr. Robert Macoy, who took over the planning and organization of the Order of the Eastern Star. In 1867 and 1868, Mr Macoy compiled and published a Ritual, using Dr. Morris' rosary as a guide. This was the beginning of the organization of Chapters of the Order of the Eastern Star in the United States as well as internationally. He immediately attempted to make the work more systematic and succeeded in adapting it to organize chapters in such a way as to assure their success.
The first Grand Chapter of the Order of the Eastern Star was organized in Michigan in 1867. The Grand Chapter of California was organized in 1868 and celebrated 125 years of the Order in California in 1993.
PURPOSES The stated purposes of the organization are: Chariable, Educational, Fraternal and Scientific.
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.
HOW TO JOIN:
To inquite about membership, talk to a current member, or contact a local Chapter. To find Chpaters in your area, PLEASE CLICK HERE. Interested in joining, Please contact our CHAPTER SECRETARY Petitions are carefully read, eligibility investigated and election to membership must be a vote bu the Chapter. The Order strives to select persons of mental, moral and spiritual quality who will work together in harmony to perform its objectives
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS:
Q. IS THE ORDER OF THE EASTERN STAR A SECRET SOCIETY?
A. 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 of life.
Q. IS MY RELIGIOUS FAITH ALLOWED IN THE ORDER OF THE EASTERN STAR?
A. Yes, Members of all religions may belong to the Order of 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 may 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 if you become an officer.
Q. IS THE ORDER PATRIOTIC AND DEMOCRATIC?
A. Yes. Members are taught an allegiance to preserve the good of their country.