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Welcome to the Grand Chapter of Maine Order of the Eastern Star
What is Eastern Star?
The Order of the Eastern Star is the largest fraternal organization in the world to which both men and women may belong. Worldwide, there are currently more than 1.2 million members under the General Grand Chapter. Maine Grand Chapter has about 6,000+ members.
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 self improvement. While this is an Order composed of people of deep spiritual convictions, it is open to all faiths, except no faith. The personal welfare of our members is vital to all of those in the Eastern Star, and it is considered a privilege to help another member whenever we can.
The degrees of the Order of the Eastern Star teach lessons of fidelity, constancy, loyalty, faith and love. They are presented in a beautiful ritualistic ceremony designed to not only teach the lessons, but also to portray the noble principles which should adorn the personal lives of Eastern Star members. Eastern Star strives to take good people and through uplifting and elevating associations of love and service, and through precept and example, build an Order which is truly dedicated to charity, truth and loving kindness.
The stated purposes of the organization are: Charitable, Educational, Fraternal, and Scientific. To this end, the Grand Chapter of Maine proudly supports the statewide community through its Eastern Star Training Awards for Religious Leadership, Shriner's Hospitals, Knights Templar Eye Foundation, Cancer Research and Education, and The Heart Foundation.
Local Eastern Star chapters select their own charities and places of service in their respective communities. Many actively support young women’s organizations such as the Order of Rainbow for Girls, along with DeMolay for Boys. Collectively, millions of dollars are raised by members throughout the General Grand Chapter for its various charities each triennium.
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 member to tell you more about it, or contact the Grand Secretary on our Contact Page for more information on how to become a member.
The OES Service dog logo of a shooting star, next to a dog's pawprint