What is Eastern Star? The Order of the Eastern Star is a Masonic-related fraternity of women and men dedicated to charity, truth and loving kindness. 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 for self improvement. The degrees of the Order of the Eastern Star teach lessons of fidelity, constancy, loyalty, faith and love. These degrees are presented in a beautiful ritualistic ceremony designed to not only teach the lessons, but also to provide insight for future study and understanding.   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! The Order of the Eastern Star was conceived, written and taught by a Master Mason to provide a place where both men and women could work and serve side by side.   It is now the largest Fraternal organization in the world to which both men and women belong. Master Masons in good standing, the wives, mothers, daughters, legally adopted daughters, widows, sisters and half-sisters, step-daughters and grandmothers, granddaughters, great granddaughters, step-granddaughters, aunts, nieces, mothers-in-law, sisters-in-law, daughters-in-law, step-sisters, step-mothers, of Master a Mason in good standing now or at the time of death,  Also certified Majority Members of the International Order of the Rainbow for Girls who are sponsored by a Master Mason in good standing are eligible for membership. The fraternal order is comprised of people with deep religious convictions and spiritual values open to all faiths except no faith. The lessons of the Order are spiritual and teach us to have a deep love for God, our country and family. The Order of the Eastern Star is benevolent and charitable in its actions, Local Eastern Star Chapters select their own charities and places of service in their own communities. They may include general scholarships for youth, and supporting a home for aged members. Each year special charities are selected for that year's emphasis.  The Order proudly supports organizations such as Rainbow for Girls and DeMolay for young men. The membership is admonished to aid, comfort and protect each other by sharing the joys and sorrows of life.  The rewards are many as members work and play together in love and charity and become life long friends, sisters and brothers. Those who desire membership must petition to do so.  The petitions are carefully investigated for eligibility, then the petition is voted on by the members of the Chapter receiving the petition. The Order wants persons with high moral and spiritual qualities who will work together to perform its objectives. If you are interested in becoming a member of the Order of the Eastern Star, contact Columbia City Chapter No. 65 by e-mail.