Edict of Hierarchical Reform

[AstriaS 3679]

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Edict of Hierarchical Reform

Issued 12th of Snow’s Maiden, Year 10 of the Second Age

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Preface

With the reintroduction of the Order of the Purifiers, the Hearth Council has determined that it has become necessary to revisit the hierarchical structure of the Faith’s clergy, as well as the paths of advancement through its ranks. In pursuit of this, the Keepers of the Hearth Council have agreed upon the following structural and systemic changes to the clergy, in the hopes that it will facilitate the reintegration of the Order of the Purifiers and improve hierarchical efficacy.

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Section I: The Ranks of the Novice

The Novice ranks are those given to the newest of faces within the clergy, including the ranks of Aspirant and Initiate. Novices are, in brief, those in training. They are to be overseen in their duties by an appointed mentor to ensure their fitness for the clergy, as well as their proper training.

 

Aspirant: The Aspirant is the most junior of the clergy. They have yet to prove themselves worthy of rank, but have made apparent their desire to serve the Faith and been accepted by a Keeper. Upon receiving the rank of Aspirant, one is to be appointed a mentor from among the ranks of their seniors.

Initiate: An Initiate is one who has proven their fitness for service to the Faith. They must show basic competency in combat, as well as a working knowledge of the Red Faith, its history and its doctrines. An Initiate will also be charged with a larger array of tasks, given at the discretion of their mentor, in order to prepare them for the responsibilities of future advancement.

Purifier Initiate: The Purifier Initiate is one who has chosen to enter the Order of the Purifiers. They must show the same competency and knowledge as an Initiate of the Keepers, and be accepted into the order by the Lord Purifier.

 

Section II: The Ranks of the Adept

The Adept ranks are those belonging to full members of the clergy and its leadership. This includes the Heart Brothers, the Keepers and the High Keeper. It is the Adepts who tend to the hearthfires and shepherd the Faithful. They are charged with a variety of duties and responsibilities throughout the realm of the Father’s faithful.

       

Hearth Brother/Sister: Hearth Brothers are those who have completed the trials of Inititation and have been released by their mentors. They are tasked with tending to the hearthfires and teaching those who seek their guidance. Additionally, they often assist Keepers with clerical and administrative work.

Keeper: Keepers are the honored priests of the Father who have been ordained and granted flamebrands by the High Keeper. They have proven their knowledge, devotion and ability to conduct their duties. In addition to tending to the hearth, performing ceremonies and offering lessons to the laity, the Keepers are tasked with a number of other responsibilities. They act as judges, investigators and arbitrators in legal matters, enforce laws, and advise public officials, among a variety of other endeavors, as Keepers have the privilege of autonomy allowing them to pursue goals at their leisure.

High Keeper: The High Keeper is the head of the clergy, and it is they who have the final say in all administrative matters. The High Keeper chooses the paths the Faith will take, and guides in so doing guides the Faithful. Additionally, they are an essential part of the government of the Kingdom of Norland, being in charge of the drafting and scribing of laws and acting as the supreme authority of law within the Kingdom.

 

Section III: To Prospective Members of the Clergy

Those who wish to join the clergy must present themselves before a Keeper or the High Keeper. Should they be judged to be honorable and pious, they will be granted the title of Aspirant, and will be appointed a mentor. From there, advancement depends on the individual and the mentor. Those who wish to serve the Father are encouraged to seek out the Keepers, for honored are those men and women with the fire and light in their spirit.

 

By Order of,

High Keeper Alisa Camian

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