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WHAT THE ORDER IS
The Order of the Eastern Star is the largest fraternal order to which Master Masons and their female relatives may belong. It is not a religion. However, it requires a belief in the existence of a Supreme Being and encourages LOYALTY to one's own religious beliefs, family, country and community. Today, in Ontario there are approximately 14,000 members in 127 Chapters.
QUALIFICATIONS
To become a member, men must be affiliated Master Masons in good standing and women must be 18 years or over and possess one of the following relationships to a Master Mason. Also, members of the International Order of the Rainbow for Girls or the International Order of Job's Daughters who have been active for three years and are at least 18 years of age are eligible.
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WHAT THE ORDER DOES
As a fraternal order, the Order of the Eastern Star provides an opportunity for men and women to meet and enjoy social companionship. The Order encourages a philosophy of life based on the virtues of FIDELITY, CONSTANCY, LOYALTY, FAITH, LOVE and CHARITY.CHARITIES
Worthy Grand Matron's Project
The Worthy Grand Matron's project (her personal choice) is a Province-wide charity which is chosen annually and supported by the members. These charities have over many years included: Arthritis, Heart and Stroke, Alzheimers, Cancer, Multiple Sclerosis and Muscular Dystrophy. In 2006-2007 the Special Project is to increase our understanding of Chronic Depression, Alcoholism and the many other related Mental Illnesses, and to raise funds for research into the cause, management and cure of these debilitating conditions.In 2005-2006, over $77,000 was donated to the Worthy Grand Matron's Project.
Chapter Selected Charities
Individual Chapters select one or more local charities and raise funds within their communities by appealing to the local population and meeting local needs.Annual Givings in the range of $300,000.00
Grand Benevolent Fund
The fund is supported by local chapters allows a committee to grant funds to members. This is done in a confidential manner and usually on an emergency basis.Annual Givings in the range of $40,000.00
Florence Nightingale Home Foundation
Interest derived from a Capital Fund allows donations of equipment to be made to hospitals in Ontario each year.Annual givings approximately $30,000.00
ESTARL
This fund, Eastern Star Training Award for Religious Leadership, unique to the Order of the Eastern Star, comes from donations of individual chapters. It is used for bursaries to assist men and women who are dedicating their lives to the Spiritual Service of mankind. In 2006 there were 48 bursaries of $1000 each."INTERESTED IN MEMBERSHIP?"
If you are interested in becoming a member of this Order:Contact The Membership Committee
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Last updated February 11, 2011