MEMBERSHIP…
The Order of the Amaranth is a social and philanthropic organization basing its membership on Masonic heritage.
Historically, the Order of the Amaranth was intended to be the final degree of three, the first degree being Eastern Star, and the second, the Queen’s of the South. The requirement to join the Order of the Amaranth, up until 1921, was that you must first be a member of Eastern Star. Though not required anymore, there are many of our members belonging to both Orders.
Because of the “Queenly” origin of our Order, our bodies are called Courts and our members are known as Honored Lady and Sir Knight. Our ceremonies exemplify the dignity of a Queen’s Court, therefore our presiding officers are referred to as Royal Matron and Royal Patron.
Our principles and teachings are from the Holy Bible. We are reminded of our duties to God, our Country, and our fellow beings. We encourage and promote the practice of TRUTH, FAITH, WISDOM, and CHARITY.
Below are some of the questions you may have about the Order of the Amaranth:
WHO CAN JOIN?
All Master Masons in good standing in the Masonic Fraternity and the wives, mothers, daughters, granddaughters, step-daughters, legally adopted daughters, widows, sisters, half-sisters, nieces, grandnieces, aunts, great-granddaughters and grandmothers of Master Masons, as well as to members, either active for three (3) years or majority, of the International Order of the Rainbow for Girls or the International Order of Jobs Daughters, each of whom having attained the age of eighteen (18) years, are eligible to membership in the Order of the Amaranth; the granddaughters, nieces, grandnieces, aunts, great-granddaughters and grandmothers must be directly related (not by marriage) to a Master Mason, who are now or were in good standing in his Masonic Lodge at the time of his death or any woman age 18 or older who has two Master Masons that will be willing to sponsor them.
HOW DOES ONE BECOME A MEMBER OF THE ORDER OF THE AMARANTH?
By completing a petition for membership, having it signed by two current members of the Order, in good standing, and submitting it to your local Court of Amaranth, with the proper fees.
WHAT ARE THE FEES?
It varies with each Court, depending on their annual dues. For more information, contact the Grand Secretary.
WHAT HAPPENS AFTER I SUBMIT MY PETITION
Your petition will be received by the Court at its next regular meeting and an investigating committee will be assigned. After meeting with you, the committee will report their findings to the members of the Court. They will then ballot on your request for membership. If the ballot is favorable, the committee will notify you of the date of your initiation.
WHAT DOES THE INVESTIGATING COMMITTEE DO?
The committee is there to determine the character and qualifications of the applicant for membership. They will meet with you and your spouse (if applicable) and get to know you. They will confirm your Masonic relationship and/or recommendations and will answer any questions you may have about the Order.
WHY DOES THE COURT BALLOT ON MY PETITION FOR MEMBERSHIP?
Like any other fraternal order, the Order of Amaranth is careful about who they admit to membership. We want to be sure that our members are of good morals who will be a constructive and harmonizing member of the Order.
WHAT HAPPENS AT MY INITIATION?
You will be put through the degree of the Order of Amaranth. There is no hazing. You will be taught beautiful and impressive lessons concerning the four principal virtues of the Order: Truth, Faith, Wisdom, and Charity.
WHAT HAPPENS AFTER MY INITIATION?
Hopefully, you will become an active member of your Court, participating in as many of its charitable activities as possible, working together for the greater good of the Order.
HOW DO I OBTAIN MORE INFORMATION ABOUT BECOMING A MEMBER?
By asking any member of the Order that you know or send an e-mail message to our Grand Secretary with your name, address, telephone number or e-mail address. She will forward your request for information to the Grand Court that has jurisdiction over the area where you live. A local member of the Order should contact you by your preferred method soon thereafter.