Order of the Eastern Star Prince Hall Affiliated

On December 1, 1874, the Queen Esther Chapter No. 1 (Esther meaning "star" in Hebrew) became the first Prince Hall Affiliate chapter of the Order of the Eastern Star when it was established in Washington, D.C. by Thornton Andrew Jackson. .  What Is It:  The Order of the Eastern Star is a Masonic-related fraternity of women and men dedicated to charity, truth and loving kindness. Although not a part of the Masonic fraternity, membership is based on a Masonic affiliation or relationship, a belief in God, and a desire to acquire additional knowledge and for self improvement. The degrees of the Order of the Eastern Star teach lessons of fidelity, constancy, loyalty, faith and love. These degrees are presented in a beautiful ritualistic ceremony designed to not only teach the lessons, but also to provide insight for future study and understanding. . Local Eastern Star Chapters select their own charities and places of service in their own communities. Some statewide projects include scholarships for students, other general scholarships for youth, and supporting a home for aged members. Each year special charities are selected for that year's emphasis and might include volunteer programs in elementary schools or volunteers in literacy programs and specific community outreach. The Eastern Star is also a social organization with frequent formal events and ceremonies. Being a member is a wonderful and a fulfilling way of life. Please ask an Eastern Star to tell you more about it! . The Order of the Eastern Star was conceived, written and taught by a Master Mason to provide a place where both men and women could work and serve side by side.   It is now the largest Fraternal organization in the world to which both men and women belong. The fraternal order is comprised of people with deep religious convictions and spiritual values open to all faiths except no faith. The lessons of the Order are spiritual and teach to have a deep love for God, country and family. The Order of the Eastern Star is benevolent and charitable in its actions, raising millions of dollars annually, throughout the world for projects that benefit all human kind.. . Purpose:  The Order of the Eastern Star, dedicated to Charity, Truth and Loving kindness, is the largest fraternal organization in the world to which both men and women may belong. Only men who are Masons are eligible and only women with specific Masonic affiliations may be members. . The membership is admonished to aid, comfort and protect each other by sharing the joys and sorrows of life.  The rewards are many as members work and play together in love and charity and become lifelong friends, sisters and brothers. To be a member of the Order is a wonderful and fulfilling way of life, a life of love and through this fraternal service to humanity, a better life is built for all. The members of the Order of the Eastern Star are dedicated women and men who sincerely reflect the spirit of fraternal love and the desire to work together for good. . We are proud of our Order's heritage. Thousands of our members have contributed their time, energy and wisdom in unselfish service to our Order, and for the good of the world. It is through this fraternal service to humanity, that we build a better life for all. How to join:  Those who desire membership must petition to do so.  The petitions are carefully investigated for eligibility then the petition is voted on by the members of the Chapter receiving the petition. The order wants persons with high moral and spiritual qualities who will work together 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 order of their country.