Church of the Morninglord
Mythology & Lore
Lathander, also known as The Morninglord, is the god of creativity, dawn, renewal, birth, athletics, spring, self-perfection, vitality, and youth. As the god of beginnings, Lathander is called upon to bless new ventures, births, and ceremonies related to fertility.
Divine Origins
The worship of Lathander has been prominent among various cultures for centuries. His temples and shrines are often ornately decorated, symbolizing his domain over light and renewal. Lathander’s followers believe that his blessings ensure a prosperous and hopeful future.
Tenets of Faith
- Aid and Foster: Strive always to aid, to foster new hope, new ideas, and new prosperity for all humankind and its allies.
- Nurture Growth: It is a sacred duty to foster new growth, nurture growing things, and work for rebirth and renewal.
- Be Positive: Avoid negativity, as from death comes life, and there is always another morning to turn a setback into a success.
- Promote Vitality: Perfect yourself, and be fertile in the mind and body.
- Honor Lathander: Watch each sunrise and engage in activities that help others over strict adherence to rules.
Ethics
Followers of Lathander value creativity, renewal, and vitality. They are encouraged to pursue personal growth and to aid others in their endeavors. Acts of kindness, community service, and the promotion of new ideas are highly valued.
Worship
Worship of Lathander involves daily prayers at dawn and rituals to honor new beginnings. Important ceremonies include marriages at dawn, the Song of Dawn, and the Going Down, a candlelit funeral rite. Temples of Lathander provide aid to adventurers and communities, often in exchange for contributions or services.
Priesthood
Priests of Lathander, known as Dawnbringers, wear bright long-sleeved robes of yellow, red, and pink, often called "sun robes." The hierarchy includes titles such as Dawngreeter, Dawnlord, High Dawnlord, and Dawnmaster. They are responsible for promoting Lathander’s teachings and leading rituals, often wearing ornate gold-trimmed robes and sunburst headpieces.
Granted Divine Powers
Priests of Lathander are granted divine powers to aid their mission:
- Blessing of Dawn: Increase morale and provide a sense of hope.
- Healing Light: Heal wounds and cure diseases.
- Radiant Burst: Emit a burst of radiant energy to combat foes.
- Revitalize: Restore vitality and energy to the weary.
- Sun's Grace: Enhance physical abilities and protection.
Political Influence & Intrigue
Lathander’s followers often hold positions of influence in communities, serving as advisors, leaders, and protectors. His priests are respected for their positive outlook and their commitment to fostering growth and renewal.
Sects
Within Lathander’s faith, several orders exist:
- Order of the Aster: A knightly order of paladins and fighters dedicated to protecting Lathander's temples and promoting his worship. They often lead military groups and seek to do good in his name.
- Dawn Riders: Clerics and paladins who roam the land, spreading Lathander’s teachings and aiding those in need. They are known for their swift and decisive actions.
Comments