Exploring the Women’s Orders of Freemasonry
Freemasonry, often shrouded in mystery and perceived as an exclusively male domain, has a much richer and more inclusive story than many realize. While the traditional Masonic lodge is indeed reserved for men, the principles of fellowship, self-improvement, and charity extend far beyond its doors. A vibrant and complex world of associated organizations exists, many of them created for the women in a Mason’s life, or even for women seeking their own path of enlightenment. These are the sister organizations of Freemasonry, a diverse family of groups that share a common heritage and a commitment to making good people better.
This world is not monolithic. It comprises a variety of orders, each with its own unique history, symbolism, and purpose. Some are directly tied to the Masonic family tree, requiring a husband, father, or brother to be a Master Mason. Others are youth groups that build character in young women. Still others are Masonic bodies in their own right, practicing the same ancient rituals as their male counterparts, though they exist on a separate, parallel track. To understand them is to see a more complete picture of the Masonic universe, a testament to the enduring power of its ideals to inspire people from all walks oflife.
What is a Masonic Sister Organization?
A Masonic sister organization is a fraternal or social group that is connected to Freemasonry through shared values, history, and often, membership requirements. These are not "female Freemasons" in the traditional sense, but rather independent bodies that form a part of the extended Masonic family.
Their connection can be formal, as seen in appendant bodies where membership for women is contingent on their relationship to a Master Mason. This structure was designed to provide a space for Masonic families to share in the fraternal experience, extending the principles of the Craft into the home and community. These organizations offer women their own rituals, degrees, and leadership opportunities, all while reinforcing the moral and philosophical lessons at the heart of Freemasonry.
Other groups, known as concordant bodies, are philosophically aligned with Masonry but may not have the same strict membership links. The entire ecosystem of these organizations creates a supportive network dedicated to charity, personal growth, and social fellowship, reflecting the core tenets of the Masonic fraternity itself.
What is the Most Well-Known Sister Organization?
The Order of the Eastern Star is, without a doubt, the most prominent and largest fraternal organization in the world that admits both men and women. It stands as a cornerstone of the extended Masonic family, with millions of members across the globe.
Who are the Order of the Eastern Star?
The Order of the Eastern Star (OES) is a fraternal organization whose lessons of moral and spiritual truth are based on the lives of five heroic women from the Bible. Its membership is open to Master Masons in good standing and their female relatives, such as wives, widows, sisters, daughters, and mothers.
Founded in the mid-19th century by Dr. Rob Morris, a dedicated Master Mason and the Poet Laureate of Freemasonry, the OES was born from a desire to share the beautiful principles of the Craft with women. Morris believed that the core tenets of brotherly love, relief, and truth were universal. He developed a system of degrees and a rich symbolic language that could be communicated in a unique setting, separate from the Masonic lodge but deeply connected to its spirit.
The central symbol of the order is the five-pointed star, with each point representing one of the biblical heroines: Adah, Ruth, Esther, Martha, and Electa. The lessons of the OES are drawn from their stories, each embodying a specific virtue, such as fidelity, loyalty, and faith. Through its beautiful rituals and allegorical teachings, the Order of the Eastern Star seeks to build character, inspire service, and create a community of fellowship bound by shared ideals. Its charitable work is extensive, supporting a wide range of causes from cancer research to scholarships for students.
Are There Other Masonic Groups for Women?
Yes, beyond the Order of the Eastern Star, there are several other significant organizations for women that are closely allied with different branches of the Masonic family. Each group has its own distinct character, traditions, and charitable focus, catering to the specific interests and connections of its members.
These bodies offer further avenues for women to participate in the fraternal world, fostering social bonds and a sense of shared purpose. They are not competitors but rather collaborators in the grand project of Masonic philanthropy and community building. From groups connected to the York Rite to those allied with the Shriners, this diverse network ensures that there is a place for nearly every woman with a Masonic connection.
What is the Order of the Amaranth?
The Order of the Amaranth is a fraternal organization for Master Masons and their eligible female relatives, with a focus on charity, fraternity, and the virtue of truth. While it shares a historical link with the Order of the Eastern Star, it has been a distinct and separate body since the late 19th century.
The central tenets of the Order of the Amaranth are Truth, Faith, Wisdom, and Charity. Its name is derived from the amaranth flower, which was considered a symbol of immortality and enduring friendship in classical antiquity. The order’s rituals are centered on the court of a queen and are designed to impart moral lessons that encourage members to live lives of service and integrity.
A core requirement for its members is a belief in a Supreme Being. The order’s primary philanthropic endeavor is the Amaranth Diabetes Foundation, through which its members raise significant funds for diabetes research. Socially, local "Courts" provide a warm and welcoming environment for members to build lasting friendships and work together on community service projects.
What about the White Shrine of Jerusalem?
The Supreme Shrine of the Order of the White Shrine of Jerusalem is an organization for women with a Masonic affiliation that is distinctly Christian in its character and teachings. Membership is open to women who are related to Master Masons, or who are themselves members of Job’s Daughters or the Rainbow for Girls, and who profess a belief in Jesus Christ as the Savior and Redeemer of the world.
Founded in Chicago in 1894, the White Shrine’s rituals are based on the journey of a shepherd and a handmaiden who follow the Star of Bethlehem to the birthplace of Jesus. The order’s teachings are centered on the sublime principles of the Christian faith, including faith, hope, and charity. Its members, known as "Sojourners," wear white gowns and veils during their ceremonies, symbolizing purity and reverence.
The primary charitable mission of the White Shrine is its Material and Objective Endowment (M.O.E.) fund, which provides crucial support for rehabilitative care. This fund helps individuals, regardless of their background, who require physical, occupational, or speech therapy to regain their independence after an injury or illness. The White Shrine stands as a unique body within the Masonic family, offering a path for those who wish to combine their fraternal bonds with their Christian faith.
Are there groups specifically for daughters and wives?
Yes, several Masonic-related organizations are structured specifically around the wives, widows, daughters, and other female relatives of members of specific Masonic bodies. These groups often have a very focused charitable purpose that directly supports the philanthropic work of their male counterparts.
These organizations foster a powerful sense of camaraderie and shared mission. They are not merely social clubs, but dedicated service groups that play an indispensable role in the success of major Masonic charities. Their work provides a profound way for families to engage in philanthropy together, strengthening both familial and fraternal bonds.
Who are the Daughters of the Nile?
The Daughters of the Nile is a benevolent international organization for women who are related by birth or marriage to a Shriner, Master Mason, or another Daughter of the Nile. They are known for their vibrant fezzes, spirited fellowship, and unwavering dedication to a single, noble cause.
Their sole purpose is to support the Shriners Hospitals for Children. Founded in 1913 in Seattle, Washington, the Daughters of the Nile have grown into a major philanthropic force. Through countless fundraisers, volunteer hours, and direct contributions, they have donated tens of millions of dollars to the hospitals. This funding supports the world-class medical care provided to children, free of charge.
Beyond their financial contributions, members sew quilts, blankets, and patient gowns, and they collect toys and games for the children in the hospitals. They are a visible and vital part of the Shriners’ mission, proving that the spirit of Masonic charity is a family affair. Their work is a testament to the power of focused, collective action in making a tangible difference in the lives of children.
Who are the Social Order of the Beauceant?
The Social Order of the Beauceant is a charitable organization for the wives and widows of Knights Templar, a branch of the York Rite of Freemasonry. Its name and symbolism are deeply rooted in the history and traditions of the medieval Knights Templar.
The Beauceant was the battle flag of the ancient Templars, half black and half white. It symbolized their dual nature, fierce to their foes but fair and good to their friends. The modern order adopts this symbolism to represent their loyalty and faith. Founded in 1890 in Denver, Colorado, the order is explicitly Christian, reflecting the nature of the Commandery of the Knights Templar.
The primary charity of the Social Order of the Beauceant is the Knights Templar Eye Foundation. This foundation is a leading Masonic charity dedicated to preventing blindness by providing funds for research and access to quality eye care. The women of the Beauceant are among its most dedicated supporters, raising money to help the foundation carry out its sight-saving work. Their efforts demonstrate a profound commitment to the chivalric ideals of their Templar counterparts.
Are There Masonic Organizations for Young Women?
Yes, the Masonic family includes several outstanding youth organizations designed to instill leadership, moral values, and self-confidence in young women. These groups provide a safe and supportive environment where girls can learn important life skills, form lifelong friendships, and prepare for their futures.
These youth orders are not simply about memorizing rituals. They are dynamic training grounds for character development. They teach public speaking, event planning, financial management, and the importance of community service, all within a framework of Masonic principles. Many women who later join adult bodies like the Order of the Eastern Star begin their fraternal journey in one of these respected groups.
What is Job’s Daughters International?
Job’s Daughters International is a premier leadership organization for girls and young women between the ages of 10 and 20. It was founded in 1920 by Ethel T. Wead Mick, the wife of a Master Mason, who was inspired by the story of faith and perseverance found in the Book of Job from the Bible.
The organization’s teachings are based on the principle that Job, despite his many trials, remained steadfast in his faith, and was rewarded with three daughters who were said to be the "fairest in all the land." The lessons of Job’s Daughters emphasize the importance of patience, loyalty, and the love of God, country, and family. Members, known as "Jobies," learn by running their own meetings, managing their own budgets, and planning their own service and social events.
Job’s Daughters provides a structured environment for girls to develop confidence and leadership skills. They are guided by adult volunteers from the Masonic family, but the responsibility for the "Bethel," or local chapter, rests with the girls themselves. This hands-on experience in governance and teamwork is invaluable, preparing them for future success in any field they choose.
What is the International Order of the Rainbow for Girls?
The International Order of the Rainbow for Girls is a non-profit youth organization that teaches leadership, confidence, and citizenship to girls between the ages of 11 and 20. It was founded in 1922 by W. Mark Sexson, a Master Mason and minister who wanted to create a character-building group for young women.
The core of the order’s teachings is based on seven lessons, each represented by a color of the rainbow. These lessons, drawn from both the Old and New Testaments, are Love, Religion, Nature, Immortality, Fidelity, Patriotism, and Service. While the lessons are based on scripture, the order is open to girls of all faiths, requiring only a belief in a Supreme Being.
"Rainbow Girls" are active in their communities, participating in a wide variety of service projects that they choose and organize themselves. The organization places a strong emphasis on service to humanity. Through their work in local "Assemblies," members learn to become articulate speakers, effective leaders, and compassionate citizens, all while building strong friendships in a fun and supportive atmosphere.
Can Women Become Freemasons Themselves?
Yes, women can and do become Freemasons, but this occurs in organizations that are not recognized as "regular" by the mainstream, male-only Grand Lodges that dominate the Masonic landscape in places like the United States and the United Kingdom. This is a critical and often misunderstood distinction.
These alternative Masonic systems, known as Co-Freemasonry or Women’s Freemasonry, operate with the same rituals, symbols, and philosophical goals as their male counterparts. They confer the same degrees of Entered Apprentice, Fellow Craft, and Master Mason. The primary difference lies in their membership policies and, consequently, their relationship with the established Masonic world. For these women, Freemasonry is not an appendant activity, it is their primary fraternal path.
What is Co-Freemasonry?
Co-Freemasonry, also known as mixed Masonry, refers to Masonic bodies that initiate both men and women as equal members. These organizations practice the rites and ceremonies of Freemasonry without gender distinction, working under the banner of universal fraternity.
The origins of Co-Freemasonry trace back to late 19th-century France. It was born from a progressive belief that the enlightening principles of Freemasonry should not be restricted by gender. The most prominent Co-Masonic order is Le Droit Humain International, which has jurisdictions around the world. These bodies are philosophically committed to the idea that true Masonic universality requires the inclusion of all of humanity.
However, from the perspective of mainstream "regular" Freemasonry, which defines itself by its adherence to ancient landmarks including the rule of being male-only, Co-Masonic lodges are considered "irregular." This means there is no official recognition or interaction between members of regular lodges and Co-Masonic lodges. Despite this, they share a common symbolic and ethical language.
What are Women’s Grand Lodges?
Women’s Grand Lodges are sovereign Masonic bodies that are established exclusively for women. They operate in a manner that is parallel to traditional male Grand Lodges, using the same rituals and adhering to the same core principles of self-improvement and charity.
These organizations provide a dedicated space for women to practice Freemasonry on their own terms. Two of the most significant are the Honourable Fraternity of Ancient Freemasons and the Order of Women Freemasons, both based in the United Kingdom but with lodges in other countries. They confer the three degrees of Craft Masonry and have their own appendant orders, such as the Royal Arch.
The relationship between these Women’s Grand Lodges and mainstream male Masonry is complex and evolving. While the United Grand Lodge of England (UGLE), the mother Grand Lodge of regular Freemasonry, does not officially recognize them as regular, it has publicly stated that it considers them to be regular in practice, just not in gender. This has led to a more amicable, if formally separate, coexistence in recent years, with some informal social interaction permitted between members.
Why is the Distinction Important?
The distinction between appendant bodies, Co-Masonry, and Women’s Freemasonry is crucial because it relates to the Masonic concept of "regularity" and recognition. Regularity is the system by which Grand Lodges around the world determine which other Masonic bodies they consider legitimate and with whom they can have official relations.
For a Grand Lodge to be considered regular by mainstream bodies like the UGLE or the various Grand Lodges in the United States, it must adhere to a set of ancient landmarks or basic principles. These typically include a belief in a Supreme Being, the presence of a Volume of Sacred Law in the lodge, and an exclusively male membership. Any body that deviates from these, particularly the last point, is deemed "irregular."
This means a Master Mason from a regular lodge cannot visit or officially interact with a lodge that admits women. However, this formal separation does not negate the shared values. All of these organizations, whether they are appendant bodies for relatives or Masonic lodges for women, are ultimately dedicated to the same noble goals: making the world a better place by improving themselves, serving their communities, and fostering a spirit of fellowship and goodwill.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do you have to be related to a Mason to join these groups? For many of the most prominent organizations, yes. Groups like the Order of the Eastern Star, Daughters of the Nile, and the Social Order of the Beauceant require a direct familial or marital relationship to a Master Mason or a member of a specific Masonic body. However, youth groups like Rainbow for Girls often welcome friends of members, and Co-Masonic or Women’s Freemasonry have their own open application processes not dependent on family ties.
Are these organizations religious? They are spiritual, but not religious. All Masonic-related bodies, for both men and women, require their members to profess a belief in a Supreme Being. However, they do not prescribe a specific religion or dogma. They are places where people of different faiths can come together in a spirit of harmony, focusing on shared moral and ethical values rather than theological differences. The one notable exception is a group like the White Shrine of Jerusalem, which is explicitly Christian.
Are their rituals secret? These organizations have private ceremonies and modes of recognition that are reserved for their members. This is not for nefarious reasons, but to preserve the unique experience of discovery for new initiates and to foster a strong bond among members. The moral and ethical lessons they teach are universal and openly discussed, but the allegorical journeys through which those lessons are taught are part of the private, shared experience of the order.
What is the main purpose of these groups? The main purpose is threefold: personal growth, community fellowship, and charitable service. They provide a structured path for members to study and practice virtues like truth, charity, loyalty, and faith. They create a supportive social network of like-minded individuals. And, most visibly, they channel their collective energy into significant philanthropic work that benefits a wide range of causes, from medical research to local community needs.
The light of Freemasonry is not confined to a single room or a single gender. It is a brilliant, multifaceted beam that has inspired a constellation of orders, each reflecting that light in its own unique way. The journey through the Masonic family, whether as a Brother in a lodge or a member of its many allied bodies, is a quest for knowledge, a commitment to service, and a celebration of the ties that bind us.
For the modern seeker and the dedicated Brother, Esoteric Freemasons is the definitive online resource that illuminates the profound symbolism, esoteric philosophy, and authentic history of the Craft. We go beyond the surface to reveal the true light of Masonic knowledge. Continue your exploration with us, and discover the deeper connections that unite this entire family of initiates. Your path to more light begins here.
