|
|
|
Lake
Delta #590 |
|
|
|
The Chapter system of the Order of the Eastern Star was inspired by the French Adoptive Masonry of the early eighteenth century, brought to the United States by General Lafayette. Much of the history of the Order revolves around two Freemasons: Dr. Rob Morris, and Mr. Robert Macoy. Robert Macoy became associated with Dr. Rob Morris in New York City in the 1860's. He later created a ritual for use of the Chapters in the State of New York. Under this chapter system organized by Robert Macoy, Alpha Chapter #1 in New York City became the first Eastern Star Organization. Alpha Chapter is still in existance today, tracing it's beginning back to 1867. The Order of the Eastern Star is a social, charitable, and fraternal organization, to which both men and women can belong. Women must be 18 years of age, and men must be Master Masons in good standing with their Lodge. Like Freemasonry, even though we are religious and patriotic in character, The Order of the Eastern Star is not a religion, nor does it serve as a substitute for the religious beliefs of its members. All that is required is a belief in a Supreme Being. Members of all religions may belong to the Order of the Eastern Star. The Lake Delta Chapter of the Eastern Star meets twice a month, on the first and third Tuesdays to conduct its business and to confer Eastern Star degrees. If no initiatory work is being performed, the meeting will usually include a program of interest or entertainment. Refreshments are almost always served. The Eastern Star degrees are fashioned around the lives of five Biblical women. They were Adah, Ruth, Esther, Martha, and Electa. The reason for this, was that each of these Biblical examples stands for one of the tenets of the Order. They represent Fidelity, Constancy, Loyalty, Faith and Love. In New York State, The Order of the Eastern Star supports the Emergency Relief Fund, Social Services, as well as many other local charities. The members also volunteer countless hours at Veteran's Hospitals. There is a program that offers educational assistance for members and children of members. The tradition of its members helping one another and human kind in general is practiced extensively. In Oriskany, New York, the Order has completed the construction of a three wing facility that provides dedicated and thoughtful care to its members in a beautiful atmosphere. There is a day care center, an Eastern Star Home for senior members, an assisted living home for members who are semi-independent, and an after-school latch key program for children.
|
|
|
|
you are visitor
|
|
|
|
D.T.
Zangari
|
