The Order of the Eastern Star is the largest fraternal organization in the world to which both men and women may belong. It encircles the earth with over 10,000 Chapters in the United States, Canada, and many other countries. Though its teachings are based on the Bible, the Order of the Eastern Star espouses no religion and is neither secret nor political. Its members are comprised of men who are Master Masons and women with specific Masonic relationships.
Membership is the key to our success and to our future worldwide. Our Members not only support our Order but also support our Masonic Family affiliations, our Communities, our Charities, our Families, our Seniors, our Armed Forces, and our Country.
Millions of dollars are raised annually within its membership for numerous projects which benefit mankind. Many national and local charities are among the projects supported by its members. Through this fraternal service to humanity, its members strive to build a better, more fulfilling way of life for all.
From The Eastern Star Journal, Summer 2005 Edition
The Grand Chapter of Manitoba was organized at a convention held in Winnipeg, Manitoba, on June 20 – 21, 1922. There were 14 Chapters in Manitoba at the time that the Grand Chapter was legally constituted and chartered by the General Grand Chapter. Over the years following, Manitoba has had as many as 68 Chapters, but presently there are 16 active Chapters.
Manitoba Chapters
Eastern Star Chapters in Manitoba are located in Winnipeg, Brandon, Portage la Prairie, Minnedosa and The Pas. More details about these Chapters can be found on the Manitoba Chapters tab.
MEMBERSHIP ELIGIBILITY FOR MEN AND WOMEN
The Order of the Eastern Star is open to all Master Masons in good standing and any female relatives who are related by birth, marriage, or adoption to Affiliated Master Masons in good standing, or if the deceased were 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®, of at least the age of eighteen (18) years.
Frequently Asked Questions:
Q. What is the Order of the Eastern Star (OES)?
A. The Order of the Eastern Star is a Masonic body open to both men and women. It was established in 1850 (172 years ago) and adopted and approved as an appendant body of the Masonic Fraternity in 1873. The order is based on some teachings from the Bible and is open to people of all religious beliefs. It has approximately 10,000 chapters in twenty countries and approximately 500,000 members under its General Grand Chapter.
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 one another. 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 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 of their country.