What It Is: 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.
