On June 18, 2026, I was initiated into the Sunnyside 359 chapter of the Order of the Eastern Star.
I remember when I first heard about OES, around 2016, when I became a Mason at Harrison Lodge. The sentiment at Harrison was more like a time that had passed where the Eastern Star was concerned. I really didn't give it much thought at all.
Upon becoming active at Brainerd Lodge, that sentiment changed. Sunnyside 359 is alive and well at Brainerd Lodge. :)
When I joined Brainerd and became an officer, I knew that OES was most likely in my future because of the relationship between Sunnyside 359 and Brainerd 736. Both entities love and support each other in a way that had not occurred to me when I became a Mason. It was nice to see.
I have heard stories of disharmony between OES chapters and their associated Masonic lodges. However, I am pleased to report that no such disharmony exists over there off Jenkins Road in Chattanooga.
The way it was described to me was that there are two Masonic bodies that one would describe as "Christian" in nature. The Knights Templar of the York Rite, of which I was already a member, and the Order of the Eastern Star. This was evident in both bodies and it was an absolute pleasure.
Without getting into too much detail, I felt loved on and cared for from the moment I entered the room. At the risk of sounding sexist in 2026, I expected as much from an organization where women are central to its very existence. Women are in charge and the men are there to support them.
As I come to understand more about OES and its principles, I hope this aids in my being and honorable man that supports his wife, daughter, mother and sister. I would encourage any Mason to consider membership into OES. It shed
