order of the eastern star study guide
The Order of the Eastern Star: A Comprehensive Study Guide
Introduction
The Order of the Eastern Star (OES) is a fraternal organization that provides support, friendship, and spiritual guidance to its members. The organization is based on the principles of love, faith, and hope, and its members strive to live their lives according to these principles.
The OES was founded in 1850 by Robert Morris, a Freemason and Eastern Star member. Morris believed that the organization could provide a safe and supportive environment for women, who were often excluded from other fraternal organizations. The OES quickly grew in popularity, and today it has over 1 million members worldwide.
The OES is a Christian organization, but it welcomes people of all faiths. The organizations teachings are based on the Bible, and its members are encouraged to live a life of service to others.
Membership
The OES is open to women who are 18 years of age or older. Women who are interested in joining the OES must be recommended by two current members of the organization. New members must also complete a background check and be voted on by the local chapter.
The OES has three levels of membership: Associate Members, Members, and Past Matrons. Associate Members have the same rights and privileges as members, but they cannot hold office. Members are the voting members of the organization, and they can hold office. Past Matrons are former members who have served as the presiding officer of their local chapter.
Organization
The OES is organized into local chapters, which are called Stars. Each Star is led by a Worthy Matron and a Worthy Patron. The Worthy Matron is the presiding officer of the Star, and the Worthy Patron is her second in command.
Stars are grouped into Grand Chapters, which are led by a Grand Matron and a Grand Patron. The Grand Matron is the presiding officer of the Grand Chapter, and the Grand Patron is her second in command.
The Grand Chapter is the highest level of organization in the OES. The Grand Chapter meets annually to conduct business and elect officers.
Teachings
The OES teaches its members about the Bible, the history of the organization, and the principles of love, faith, and hope. The organizations teachings are based on the following seven virtues:
- Love
- Faith
- Hope
- Charity
- Truth
- Temperance
- Fortitude
The OES believes that these virtues are essential for living a good life. Members are encouraged to practice these virtues in their daily lives.
Ritual
The OES has a rich and beautiful ritual. The ritual is based on the Bible and the principles of the organization. The ritual is used to teach members about the organizations history, teachings, and virtues.
The ritual is performed in a lodge room, which is a special place set aside for the OES. The lodge room is decorated with symbols of the organization, and it is a place where members can feel safe and comfortable.
Service
The OES is a service organization. Members are encouraged to volunteer their time and resources to help others. The OES supports a variety of charities, and members are often involved in community service projects.
The OES believes that service is one of the best ways to live a meaningful life. Members are encouraged to make a difference in the world, one act of kindness at a time.
Benefits of Membership
There are many benefits to being a member of the OES. Members enjoy the following benefits:
- Friendship: The OES is a great way to meet new people and make friends. Members come from all walks of life, and they are all united by their shared values.
- Support: The OES is a supportive organization. Members are there for each other through good times and bad. They offer a shoulder to cry on, a listening ear, and a helping hand.
- Guidance: The OES provides members with spiritual guidance. The organizations teachings help members to live a good life and to make the right choices.
- Service: The OES is a service organization. Members have the opportunity to give back to their community and make a difference in the world.
Story Cases
Here are a few stories from OES members who have experienced the benefits of membership:
- "I joined the OES after my husband passed away. I was feeling lonely and lost, but the OES gave me a new sense of purpose. I made new friends, and I found a community of people who cared about me." - Mary, OES member from Pennsylvania
- "The OES has helped me to grow as a person. Ive learned about the importance of love, faith, and hope. Ive also learned how to be a better leader and a better member of my community." - John, OES member from California
- "Im so grateful for the OES. The organization has given me the opportunity to serve my community and make a difference in the world." - Sarah, OES member from Texas
Conclusion
The Order of the Eastern Star is a wonderful organization that provides its members with friendship, support, guidance, and service. If you are looking for a way to enrich your life, the OES may be the right organization for you.
To learn more about the OES, visit the organizations website at www.easternstar.org.
The Order of the Eastern Star Study Guide is a comprehensive guide to the organizations history, teachings, and ritual. The Study Guide is an excellent resource for anyone who is interested in learning more about the OES.