Order of Eastern Star
The Order of the Eastern Star is the largest fraternal organization in the world to which both men and women may belong. Worldwide, there are currently more than 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.
Eastern Star Chapters donate funds to a wide variety of worthy charities. Some examples are: Cancer Research Project, Arthritis Fund, Heart Fund, Knights Templar, Eye Foundation, Shriners' Hospital for Crippled Children, orphanages and many other charities within each Grand Jurisdiction. In the United States alone, Masonic organizations give $1.5 million a day to charity.
Eastern Star gives support to young people who are members of Rainbow for Girls, Job's Daughters, and the Order of DeMolay These fine young people who are training themselves to be leaders are likely prospects to become valued Eastern Stars or Masons. The Order of the Eastern Star and the Masonic fraternity are highly rewarded by their support of and interest in these youth organizations.
Eastern Star Training Awards (ESTARL) for Religious Leadership, is a scholarship fund for those who are going to school for the purpose of religious training.
Many Grand Jurisdictions have homes for their senior members. These homes range in function from full fledged "retirement homes" to organizations that provide services to those who are in need.