September 14–20, 2026
September Hygiene Drive
Collecting essential hygiene items to support local shelters, service organizations, and individuals in need.
Macon, Georgia
Rooted in Sisterhood.Committed to Service.Building a Lasting Legacy.
Essenes Chapter #811 is a service-focused chapter of the Order of the Eastern Star, committed to sisterhood, community support, and charitable outreach throughout Macon and surrounding communities.
Order of the Eastern Star
Fairest Among Thousands,Altogether Lovely.
Service
Sisterhood
Leadership
Love
Who We Are
Rooted in sisterhood.Committed to service.
Essenes Chapter #811 is a service-focused chapter of the Order of the Eastern Star serving Macon, Georgia and surrounding communities.
Through charitable outreach, fellowship, and community engagement, our chapter continues a tradition of friendship, leadership, loving kindness, and service to others.
We honor those who established our foundation while continuing to build a chapter that remains active, connected, and committed to making a positive difference in our community.
Our Mission & Values
Making a positive differencethrough service and loving kindness.
The Order of the Eastern Star is built upon charitable works, lasting friendships, and a shared commitment to serving others with compassion, integrity, and purpose.
01
Service
Giving our time, talents, and support to strengthen the communities we are privileged to serve.
02
Sisterhood
Building meaningful relationships rooted in encouragement, fellowship, respect, and lasting friendship.
03
Leadership
Leading with purpose and integrity while creating opportunities to serve, uplift, and make an enduring impact.
Our Motto
“Fairest Among Thousands, Altogether Lovely.”
Community Service
Service that reachesbeyond our chapter.
Service is at the heart of Essenes Chapter #811. Through charitable outreach and hands-on community involvement, our members work together to support individuals and families throughout Macon and surrounding communities.
Community Outreach
Serving our community in action.
Community Partnership
Working together to make a difference.
Community in Action
Giving whereit matters.
From food drives to charitable outreach, Essenes Chapter #811 puts service into action by responding to community needs, supporting local families, and building relationships throughout Macon.
“Making a positive difference through charitable works, lasting friendships, and loving kindness.”
Our Legacy
1986
Rooted in sisterhood. Built through service.
Where Our Story Began
Honoring the foundationof Essenes Chapter #811.
Essenes Chapter #811 was organized under the leadership of Sis. Julia Johnson in August 1986.
The chapter was chartered on August 16, 1986 by the Supreme Grand Lodge of Modern Free and Accepted Masons of the World, Inc., Ancient and Accepted Scottish Rite Free Masonry, Order of the Eastern Star.
From its beginning, Essenes Chapter #811 has continued a legacy of sisterhood, leadership, service, and commitment to the community.
Our Foundation
First Chartered Elected Officers
Sis. Julia Johnson
Worthy Matron
Bro. Michael Johnson
Worthy Patron
Sis. Evelyn Dennis
Associate Matron
Sis. Doris Walker
Secretary
Sis. Betty Jones
Treasurer
Sis. Lucille Ward
Conductress
Sis. Minnie Shinholster
Associate Conductress
Leadership Legacy
Past Worthy Matrons
Sis. Brenda Rouse-Stodghill
Sis. Deborah McCarthy
Sis. Lakandrea McCarthy
Sis. Caryles Cornelius
Sis. Willa Barber
Sis. Saabirah Bryant
Sis. Michelle Hall
Honored Service
Life Members
Sis. Brenda Rouse-Stodghill · 1990
Sis. Deborah McCarthy · 1991
Sis. Lakandrea McCarthy · 1997
Sis. Caryles Cornelius · 2002
Sis. Martha Thomas · 2003
Sis. Willa Barber · 2006
In Memoriam
Remembering thosewho helped shape our legacy.
Sis. Julia Johnson · PWM
Sis. Janie Hubbard · PWM
Bro. Willie “Butch” Stodghill · PWP
Bro. Kenny Curry · PWP
Upcoming Projects
Serving throughevery season.
Essenes Chapter #811 continues its commitment to service through community projects designed to support individuals and families throughout Macon and surrounding communities.
October 1–31, 2026
Breast Cancer Awareness
Providing care items, encouragement, and support for individuals and families affected by breast cancer.
November 1–21, 2026
A Seat at the Table
A Thanksgiving family sponsorship project helping local families enjoy a complete holiday meal with dignity and warmth.
December 1–19, 2026
Warm Hearts, Warm Homes
Collecting winter essentials to provide warmth and comfort to shelters, senior centers, and families throughout the Macon community.
Want to support one of our upcoming community projects? Contact Essenes Chapter #811 for donation and participation information.
Contact the ChapterEssenes in Pictures
Our chapter.Our service. Our story.
A look at the members, service, fellowship, and community moments that make Essenes Chapter #811 who we are.
Community Impact
40 meals delivered through community partnership.
Service in Action
Showing up for our community.
Sisterhood
Fellowship, friendship, and shared purpose.
More chapter moments will be added as our photo collection grows.
Membership
Interested in learningmore about our chapter?
We welcome inquiries from those interested in learning more about Essenes Chapter #811 and the Order of the Eastern Star.
Contact our chapter to request additional information about membership, chapter activities, and opportunities to connect.
Membership InquiryConnect With Essenes Chapter #811
Service. Sisterhood.Community.
Have a question, want to learn more about the chapter, or interested in connecting with us? We would love to hear from you.
Support Essenes
Help us continue serving our community.
Your support can help Essenes Chapter #811 continue community outreach, charitable projects, and programs benefiting individuals and families throughout Macon and surrounding communities.