Saintmagnus: Difference between revisions
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== Religion ==
The Order of Saint Magnus, formerly the Chapter of Saint Magnus under the Order of Enlightenment, is the predominant religion of Saintmagnus. It involves belief in the Great Architect of the Universe, sometimes called the Architect or God, as the unknowable creator deity of the universe, as well as the apotheosis of Saint Magnus, the first discoverer and settler of the island, and the prophet status of Prince Adam, who rediscovered the island and the Saint’s tomb.
Over 65% of the population is religious, 87% of which follows the Order of Saint Magnus with various degrees of devotion. Atheism is relatively uncommon in Saintmagnus, which owes itself to the historical and cultural dependence on the Order of Saint Magnus. Separation of church and state is present in theory, but Order values are present in the government, as is a theocratic political party.
Practices of The Order of Saint Magnus involve daily prayer to the Saint and monthly prayer to the Great Architect, the latter of which takes place in church, accompanied by a telling of the Saint’s quest for immortality, discovery of the island, and subsequent enlightenment. Other moral and historical tales and lessons are taught during church ceremonies. Burial rites and marriage rights are performed by priests, with most ceremonies taking place in church as well. Finally, churches offer confession and absolution for sinners.
Priests must all be ordained by the High Priest of Saint Magnus personally, in the city of Saintmagnus. Priests undergo confession with the High Priest, then ritually bathe in water blessed by the High Priest, before accepting their black and white vestments. Red, the color of the Saint, is reserved to the High Priest himself. Priests take vows to uphold the community above themselves, and martyr their desires for the greater good. They typically pursue scholarly studies alongside their religious duties.
The Order of Saint Magnus is the largest charity in Saintmagnus, receiving donations from tourists as part of a cultural experience, as well as native Saintmagnians, who donate to the church for its upkeep as well as for its charitable works. Large swaths of its donations are sent to other charities, some international, but much of it contributes to soup kitchens, homeless shelters, and orphanages. Furthermore, those with nowhere else to go are welcomed into churches and cared for by the priests. A small amount of their donations is spent on lobbying the Saintmagnian government.
== Culture ==
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