Overview

The Astral Church is a group dedicated to the worship of all Celestial beings rather than individuals. They recognize Solarin as the prime deity, who proceeded to create Lunira and The Stars. The church is represented all across Caelthys with temples in most medium-sized cities or larger. The center of the church - the Constellarium - is located in the capital of the Korrandi League.

The Astral Church is led by 3 high priests. Their job is to determine doctrines for worshippers, lead major rituals, and determine appropriate direction for the church as culture grows and advances. Below them are priests who begin dedicated to a particular star. As they move up in the ranks they may become dedicated to a Constellation (a group of stars whose domains are related), eventually becoming a priest for the entire Celestial pantheon.

The holy symbol of the Astral Church is centered on the symbol of Solarin, flanked by Lunira and surrounded by a ring of Constellations

Doctrines

The Astral Church believes that...

• The Celestial deities are the ultimate powers in the universe, the greatest of whom is Solarin - the Sun Celestial.
  • Solarin created Lunira (the moon) and The Stars to rule over different dominions of his creation
• Celestial Deities can cause positive or negative effects in their domains depending on the devotion of their followers

The Church operates under the theology of reciprocity. They believe that if they participate and provide in the practice of devotion then Solarin, Lunira and the Stars will be gracious with them and provide light, warmth, and stability in different areas of life. The goal of the Church then is to make sure that the celestial gods remain pleased through the worship of their devotees. Clergymen are viewed as shepherds of the world, teaching them and guiding them in how to best please the gods, thus leading to maximal harvests, calm seas, or any number of other good things.

Worship Practices

Clergy

Laymen

Politics and Economics

The Astral Church had a significant influence on shaping the picture of morality in Caelthys and thus holds much power despite not having any direct political power. Many rulers bow to the desires of the Church to remain in good standing with their people. A notable exception to this would be the land of the The Dulann Confederacy where they have spurned the doctrines of the Astral Church.

The Church is primarily funded by the sale of indulgences and religious artifacts that people keep in their homes or use in rituals to gain favor of Celestial gods. Many nations help fund the presence of the Church in their borders to protect themselves against having their populations turned against them by the Triumvirate. The coffers of the Astral Church have grown vast over the years, showcased in their ornate temples and collection of legendary historical artifacts.

The Triumvirate

The Triumvirate is the collection of the 3 High Priests of the Astral Church. Each High Priest represents an aspect of the celestial trinity - Solarin, Lunira, and the Stars.

The Current Triumvirate

• High Priest of Solarin
  • Aasimar man
  • Serves as the Church's ambassador to the nations, working with political leaders around the world to maintain an amicable and mutually beneficial relationship
• High Priestess of Lunira
  • Human Woman
  • Oversees cultural and doctrinal development, keeping the Church relevant to the needs of a constantly evolving world
• High Priest of the Stars
  • Elven man
  • Oversees the Argent Vanguard and constellation organization

The Argent Vanguard

The Vanguard is the Astral Church's militant arm. It consists of heavily armored knights whose duty is to protect religious facilities and to serve as "negative reinforcement" against any heretical doctrines. Their adornments shimmer in the light, with the highest-ranking officers donning the most ornate armor.

• What are knights/members of the vanguard called?
• Rankings?