Post by Ophelia Harrington on Nov 30, 2013 2:35:44 GMT -5
Clerical Practices
by ascendingaria
Unless your God is a well know deity, His or Her presence may be in doubt by pretty much anyone not of your faith. One of a Cleric's most important duties is to gain new followers for the fold. Without mortals to place their faith in your deity, it loses precious power.
ACTIVITY ONE · In at least 200 words, sell me as a potential recruit into your deity's church on the merits of service to Him or Her. Why should I place my faith in a being I cannot even see, nor touch?
A blessed Union
Marriage is one of the most important rituals a Cleric can perform. The union of two faithful followers, or a faithful follower to a non-believer (potential convert), can produce many children which are brought into the flock.
ACTIVITY TWO · Write out your marriage sermon, hand fasting or bonding ceremony including vows. Make sure to add important details such as altar colours, incenses, sacred altar items, etc.
Disease and Curses
Clerics often walk where few others dare to tread. Armed with their faith, they enter areas of Plague and Pestilence to bring their God's salvation unto the masses. Not only does this show of power bring more followers into the fold, it saves lives and eases suffering. Even Clerics of dark alignment must be ready and able to cure their followers. While they care less about easing suffering, allowing one's followers to die as pestilence spreads weakens the fold.
ACTIVITY THREE · Create a spell to Cure Disease or Remove Curses.
It can be any sort of spell, and may involve any sort of ingredients you wish. (Please do NOT use Alchemy).
It can be any sort of spell, and may involve any sort of ingredients you wish. (Please do NOT use Alchemy).
The dearly departed
Presiding over funerals is a sombre but important task for a Cleric. When one of the faithful die, their physical remains must then be disposed of in your God's preferred manner. It is the last comfort a Cleric can give to one of the faithful, being there at the end to help shepherd he or she on into the afterlife. It is also a comfort for those left behind.
ACTIVITY FOUR · Write out your funeral service or rite of death ceremony. Make sure to add important details such as altar colours, incenses, sacred altar items, etc.
Counselling
This is an often-overlooked, but very important part of being a Cleric. When one of the faithful is unsure and they seek out guidance, you must be ready to impart not only your own wisdom, but lessons of your God's teachings. Translating the Word of your God into terms mortals can understand is often a daunting task, even when you may not fully comprehend. None the less, it must be done. What sort of shepherd are you, if you cannot guide your flock?
Activity FIVE · Hypothetical Situation: Saavim, a follower of your God, was set by his parents to marry Silanna. However, he has fallen in love with and wants to marry a woman named Tania. Explain how you would council Saavim, using the teachings of your God. This must be no less than 175 words.
