The Holy Order of Helm

All Merrans will acknowledge the existence of Helm. However those who dedicate themselves to His Will are known as Helmites, and some become clerics or paladins under the order that professes to act under His authority.
Although the religion has many temples across Merra, its religious centre and place of power is Ozerksy, located within the Republic of Dezaria. It is a place of pigrimage for many devout followers from across Merra as it is believed to the the birthplace of the Unknown Hero. Although located in the Dezarian nation, the city has near absolute autonomy.
The Bishop Council and the Holy Synod are at the top of the hierarchical structure, comprising of the bishops and the other church representatives. From electing the Patriarch to canonising saints and interpreting the order's teachings, it is the Synod's authority and responsibility.
The head of the Order is the Patriarch, elected for life much like the Grand Marshall is for the Republic of Dezaria. In the current year of 5249 AC, the current Patriacrh is Vragan Petrovich II.

Foundation

The knowledge and faith in Helm has been in Merra since before time was recorded and temples were raised in His name since the Uncultured Ages.
In 4253 AC, three years after the Mending, the Holy Order of Helm is formed, fabled to have been created by the Unknown Hero of Helm. Its core tenements and beliefs are detailed in The Book of Helm.
In the wake of The Incursion, the faith spread quickly across Merra, including Dezaria, Fiumri and Valoris, and all temples of Helm soon fell under the instruction and ultimately ownership of the Order.

The Soulguard and Persecution

In 4397 AC, the Holy Order of Helm petition the Grand Marshall of Dezaria for the formation of a religious military arm, to further Helm's domain of protection. The request is ultimately allowed and The Soulguard was formed from a group of devout knights.
Later, the Soulguard was extended to include Inquisitors, ensuring a single vision of the faith.
The resulting persecution of beliefs in other gods results in the belief in Helm being ascendant, and would continue to do so for nearly a millennia. The rare few who follow another deity are considered as heathens by the Helmites, or in some cases, heretics. Whilst all mortals can see the tangible powers granted by Helm, people following other deities have no such evidence.

Rite of Excommunication

Upon failure to complete a task, or upon evidence of cowardice or failure to follow Helm's precepts, the highest ranking disciple of Helm available would excommunicate the offender with these words:

13. You have been tried by fair authority and found wanting.¹ You have betrayed your trust. When the time came to watch, you were blind. When the time came to stand, you were kneeling. When the time came to protect the poor, injured, and young, you sacrificed them. You fled in craven cowardice. You fought in ignorance and pride.² Your weapons were dulled when the challenge came, and the blood spilled is on your head.³ Your name was called, and you did not answer. You are not pure. You are not loyal. You are no protector. You are dead to the children of Helm.⁴ Now go and die to all others.⁵

Chapter: Rites, the Book Of Helm

Type

Religious, Holy Order

Founded
4253 AC

Current Patriarch
Vragan Petrovich II

Principal Tenement
To protect against threats within and without