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Welcome to the website for the Myra Grand Chapter Order of the Eastern Star (PHA) of Maryland
Grand Chapter Headquarters
1307 Eutaw Place
Baltimore, MD 21217
410-669-2372
410-669-5949 (fax)
Contact Info
How to join: To inquire about membership, talk to a current member, or contact a local chapter. To find chapters in your area send an email to Sharon Lee requesting information. Petitions are carefully read, eligibility investigated and election to membership must be by unanimous vote. The Order strives to select persons of mental, moral and spiritual quality who will work together in harmony to perform its objectives.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q. What is the Order of the Eastern Star?
A. The Order of the Eastern Star is a social, charitable and Fraternal Organization to which both women and men can belong. In South Carolina, the Order of the Eastern Star is comprised of 127 Chapters across our state and is divided into 24 regional Districts. The regional Districts are usually comprised of one or more counties.
Q. What are the requirements for membership?
A. Membership in the Order of the Eastern Star is open to women 18 years of age or older, as well as Master Masons in good standing in their lodge.
Q. What is the basis of the Order of Eastern Star?
A. Brother Morris and Brother McCoy created the Degrees of the Eastern Star around the lives of five Biblical women. They were Adah, Ruth, Esther, Martha, and Electa. (More information on the website, click on 'Star Point' link. The reason was that each of these Biblical examples stands for one of the tenets of the Order. They are Fidelity, Constancy, Loyalty, Faith and Love.
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. What are the purposes and goals of the Order?
A. To provide an organization where women and men with high moral and social character, can join together and contribute time, energy and wisdom to our Order with Charity, Truth and Loving-kindness for the good of all mankind throughout the world.
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. A short proficiency examination is strictly voluntary, but encouraged.
Q. Is the Order patriotic and democratic?
A. Yes. Members are taught an allegiance to preserve the good of their country. We strongly support the government of the United States of America.
Why should I want to join the Order of The Eastern Star?
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 and 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. Is there any social involvement?
A. Yes. The Chapter has numerous fun activities for all members and their family and friends. Usually, the Worthy Matron (head of the chapter) has a number of social events to supplement her planned activities.
Q. Just what is Fraternal Life?
A. The Order of the Eastern Star provides us with a means of compassion and concern, not only for our fellow Sisters and Brothers in the Order of the Eastern Star, but to ourselves, our Country, and our faith. In addition, it enters us into a way of life that all of us inwardly want for ourselves and our families.
Q. Is there any fraternal friendship?
A. Both women and men join a Fraternal Order to make friends and enjoy the fellowship that is displayed. Members and their families can enjoy interacting with others who share their beliefs.
Q. Will I become a better person?
A. Yes. The Order of the Eastern Star takes a good citizens and makes them even better. We continue to be central in the development of the American promise of human opportunity and personal fulfillment.
