Who are we?
We are one of the largest fraternal organizations that both men and women can belong.
Who may join?
Only men who are Masons are eligible and only women with specific Masonic affiliation may be members. These affiliations include:
- Affiliated Master Masons in good standing
- Wives
- Widows
- Daughters
- Legally adopted daughters
- Stepdaughters
- Daughters-in-law
- Mothers
- Grandmothers
- Great granddaughters
- Nieces
- Great nieces
- Sisters
- Half sisters
- Step-sisters
- Mothers-in-law
- Granddaughters
- Sisters-in-law
- Stepmothers
- Aunts
And first and second female cousins of affiliated Master Masons in good standing, or, if deceased in good standing at the time of their death; as well as members – either active for three (3) years or majority – in the International Order of the Rainbow for Girls or in Job’s Daughters International, each of whom having attained at least the age of eighteen (18) years, are eligible for membership in the Order of the Eastern Star.
Q: How do I join?
A: To inquire about membership, talk to a current member, or contact a local chapter. You will be asked to fill out an application called a petition. Petitions are carefully read, eligibility investigated and election to membership must be by unanimous vote. Petitions must be accompanied by the appropriate fees. The Order strives to select persons of mental, moral and spiritual quality who will work together in harmony to perform its objectives.
Q: Is the Order of the Eastern Star time-consuming?
A: After your Initiation into our Order during a regular meeting, you may attend as your time permits. The level of your involvement is completely up to you.
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. We do enjoy a distinctive means of identifying each other. Only members are allowed in closed meetings.
Q: Does the Order of the Eastern Star give support to any affiliated youth groups?
A: Yes. The OES provides support to the members of The International Order of the Rainbow for Girls (ages 11-20) and Job’s Daughters International (ages 10-20). The purposes of these youth groups is to train these fine young citizens to be leaders in the community and to be future members and leaders in the OES. The Masons also sponsor DeMolay International (ages 13-21).
Q: What are the purposes and goals of the Order of the Eastern Star?
A: To provide an organization where women and men with high moral and social character can contribute much time, energy and wisdom to our Order with Charity, Truth and Lovingkindess for the good of all mankind throughout the world.
Q: What does the Eastern Star have to offer that other organizations do not?
A: Each of us has an inner need to do something for others. Sometimes it is difficult to determine just how to begin. The Order of the Eastern Star offers that guidance and provides an outlet as well as serving as a resource center and support group.
Q: Does the OES have any special projects?
A: Yes, the OES membership supports major special projects such as E.S.T.A.R.L. (Eastern Star Training Awards for Religious Leadership) and Shriners Hospitals for Children. Each Chapter may choose whether to support any other special projects or not on their own.
Q: Is the Order of the Eastern Star a religion?
A: No. The Order of the Eastern Star is not a religion, even though we are religious in character. It does not pretend to take the place of a religion or serve as a substitute for the religious beliefs of its members. Our members do come from all denominations.
Q: Is my religious faith allowed in the Order of the Eastern Star?
A: Yes. Members of all religions may belong to the OES. We only require a belief in a Supreme Being.
