Is the OES a single universal body or composed of jurisdictional Grand Chapters?

• A. Composed of jurisdictional Grand Chapters that govern local Chapters within their jurisdiction.
• B. A single universal body.
• C. Each chapter operates independently without governance.
• D. It is strictly governed by external religious authorities.

Answer: (A)

The Order of the Eastern Star is organized with jurisdictional Grand Chapters that oversee the local Chapters within their territory. Each Grand Chapter, usually corresponding to a state, province, or country, has authority to regulate rites, officers, bylaws, and practices for all Chapters in its jurisdiction. This creates a federated structure where local Chapters answer to their own Grand Chapter, rather than operating under a single universal body.

There is also a General Grand Chapter that provides overarching coordination among jurisdictions, but it does not replace the authority of the individual Grand Chapters. External religious authorities do not govern the Order.