What Is the Order of the Eastern Star?

Founded in the mid-1800s, the Order of the Eastern Star is the largest fraternal organization in the world for women and men. However, it is commonly considered a women’s auxiliary to the Freemasons. Its members comprise men who are Master Masons and women with specific Masonic relationships. The order, often abbreviated as OES, serves many functions both internally for its members and externally for the community.

What is OES?

According to masonicdictionary.com, Freemason Robert Morris founded the Order of the Eastern Star in 1850. According to the website, “It is the wholesome relationship of sisterly and brotherly love brought about through high principles exemplified in our daily lives, which make us near and dear to each other.” A deep fraternal bond exists between the members, the organizations focuses on character-building of its members through charitable work and maintaining high priniciples.

Membership

According to the Grand Chapter of Texas website, “membership is based on a Masonic affiliation or relationship, a belief in God, and a desire to acquire additional knowledge and for self improvement.” OES, however, is not technically a part of the Masonic fraternity. While Freemasons can be members of OES, women cannot be Freemasons. Women considered for membership must have a Masonic relationship, such as wife, daughter or cousin of a Mason. Some non-blood relations also are accepted. Those interested in joining must petition to do so by contacting an existing member or a local chapter.

Where is OES located?

The Order of the Eastern Star exists worldwide, with more than 10,000 chapters in the United States, Canada and 18 other countries. In the United States, for example, several chapters form a district and these districts join to form a state organization — a grand chapter. Most grand chapters are under the jurisdiction of the general grand chapter.

What does OES believe?

The Order of the Eastern Star is open to people of all faiths, but not to atheists. A belief in a supreme being is required. Although religious in nature, OES is not a religion and does not advertise itself as a substitute for religion. According to masonicdictionary.com, in 1860, Robert McCoy wrote the order’s rituals, which still exist today. The degrees of OES focus on five women in the Bible: Adah, Ruth, Esther, Martha and Electa. Each one represents a principle of the order: fidelity, constancy, loyalty, faith and love. OES’ symbol is the Star of Bethlehem, and the five-pointed star is the OES emblem.

What does OES do?

OES members help raise money for national and local charities. Millions of dollars are raised and donated each year to various causes. Specifically, OES gives support to members of Masonic youth groups, Rainbow for Girls, Job's Daughters, and the Order of DeMolay. The Order of the Eastern Star is active in the local communities, donating time and funds to needy organizations. OES also is a group that promotes a fraternal bond among its members and considers the personal welfare of its members of vital importance.

References

• Grand Chapter of Texas
• Masonic Dictionary