Ladies' Masonic Organizations

The Dayton Masonic Center is proud to host a diverse array of women’s Masonic and affiliated organizations, each dedicated to personal development, charity, and enduring fellowship. These groups provide a vibrant community where women can engage in unique traditions and meaningful service projects that benefit both the local Dayton area and international causes. Among the prominent bodies that meet within our historic halls are:

• Order of the Eastern Star (OES): A cornerstone of the Masonic family open to both men and women, focusing on biblical heroines and the virtues of fidelity and charity. It is a worldwide fraternal organization and a Masonic appendant body that is open to both men and women. Founded in 1850 by Dr. Rob Morris, it was designed to allow the female relatives of Master Masons to share in the benefits of the Masonic spirit and contribute to charitable endeavors. Membership requires a belief in a Supreme Being and is currently open to Master Masons and women with specific Masonic relationships, including daughters, wives, mothers, and sisters. The organization's ritual and symbolism center on a five-pointed star—the Star of Bethlehem—with each point representing a biblical heroine (Adah, Ruth, Esther, Martha, and Electa) who exemplifies virtues such as fidelity, constancy, loyalty, faith, and love. Today, the OES is one of the largest fraternal organizations in the world, dedicated to charity, truth, and loving kindness through local and international philanthropic projects.

• Order of the White Shrine of Jerusalem: This Christian-focused order is an international fraternal organization for both men and women with a connection to the Masonic fraternity. Founded in 1894, its mission is centered on the birth, life, death, and resurrection of Jesus Christ, emphasizing the values of "Peace on Earth, Good Will to men". Unlike the Order of the Eastern Star, the White Shrine specifically requires members to profess a belief in the Christian religion. The organization’s primary charitable focus is the Material Objective, a fund that assists those in need of medical and rehabilitation aid regardless of their race, creed, or gender. Members are often referred to as "Sojourners," and local chapters are led by a Worthy High Priestess and a Watchman of Shepherds.