Richlands Star Chapter No.342

Masonic Affiliated History

The Order of the Eastern Star (OES) is a fraternal organization which strives to build a better and more fulfilling way of life.  Many of our members dedicate themselves to supporting a variety of local and national charities.

Though our teachings refer to stories from the King James Bible, the Order of the Eastern Star is not a religion, neither a secret society, nor political in nature.  Our spiritual symbol is the “Star of Bethlehem” and a Star is our accepted emblem.  The first meeting for each member includes an initiation ceremony which is symbolic of the road of life and briefly outlines the teachings, obligations and lessons of the Order.

The Order of the Eastern Star provides an opportunity for women to gradually acquire the necessary leadership and management skills required to lead and coordinate the running of the Chapter during their one-year term of office. Those who wish to progress through the many offices on the way to the office of Worthy Matron have the opportunity of learning a vast range of skills that are valuable in life’s journey.

Our monthly meetings are opened and closed in a formal and symbolic manner.  However the business section of the meeting is conducted in a similar manner to that of most other associations or organizations. The major difference between the Order of the Eastern Star and any other mixed gender organization is that the presiding officer’s are ALL WOMEN. The highest title is known as “Worthy Matron” and only a female may attain this position. Men may attain the position of “Worthy Patron” but the role of the Worthy Patron is as an assistant to the Worthy Matron.

Women seeking to join the Order of the Eastern Star should first try to identify a male relative who is or was a Master Mason.  In the event that neither you nor your family has ever had a Brother Master Mason, don’t become discouraged. Our Secretary can assist you with full membership anyway. Once you have made initial contact with our Secretary and or any member of our Order from our Chapter. Assigned members will then arrange a time and location nears you to meet with you and discuss your journey within Prince Hall Order of the Eastern Star.

Men seeking membership into the Order are required to be, or to become a Master Mason.  Should any man who is not already a Master Mason wish to become a part of Prince Hall Freemasonry, he can begin the proceedings by contacting the Secretary on our Contact Us page or simply email him at secretariesdeskpha@gmail.com or make contact with any known brother Master Mason of a Masonic Lodge nearby.

In the end, Richlands Chapter No. 342 is a social order. Its appeal rests in the true beauty of the refreshing and character-building lessons that are so sincerely portrayed in its ritualistic work. A deep fraternal bond exists between its members. It is the wholesome relationship of sisterly and brotherly love brought about through high principles exemplified in our day to day lives which make us near and dear to each other.

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.