Originally posted by Past Matron Kathie Brown on February 08, 2012.

I have been a member of Eastern Star for over 30 years. I have made friendships too numerous to count and many of my social activities revolve around Eastern Star. I am also an active member of my church. However, there are a couple of things that I feel are unique to Eastern Star. First, the ritual work and ceremonies are special and participating is fun. If you are not a member, attending an open installation of officers gives you a good idea about our ritual work and ceremonies. Installations in chapters around the state are held every spring. Second, through Eastern Star, once you start visiting other chapters, you get to know members from around the state. You renew friendships and continue to make new friends by attending fundraisers or social events hosted by other chapters or Grand Chapter. You can go to an Eastern Star function anywhere around the state and you will know someone. And if by chance you don’t know anyone, you will still be welcomed with open arms and will have new friends by the time you leave. You meet more people by attending our annual convention (Minnesota Grand Chapter). This is a chance to also meet members from out of state. Then you might attend the Grand Chapter session in another state, and the friendships keep expanding. I have met some of the finest people I know in Eastern Star.