Iconoclastic Astroism/Catechism

This is a work meant to serve as a way of introduction to the Faith, and as a possible start towards the study of the Holy Writings. It was approved by Holy Prophet Jonsu Himoura.

Fundamentals

• What is Iconoclastic Astroism?

A church founded by prophet Jonsu Himoura, in an effort to preserve the teachings of Mathurin Hossenfeffer, dedicated to bringing humanity into better harmony with the Bloodstars.

• What are the Bloodstars?

Three celestial bodies, visible across Dwilight: Maddening, Auspicious and Austere.

• What is special about the Bloodstars?

They strongly affect the emotional states of all humans.

• How do the Bloodstars exert their influence?

By changing the composition and the flow of our blood.

• What is peculiar about each Bloodstar?

Maddening is a source of strong, unfocused energy. The influence of Auspicious, its counterpart, is towards order and planning. Austere is associated with a yearning for meditation and balance.

• What makes Iconoclastic Astroism distinct from Sanguis Astroism?

Iconoclastic Astroism seeks to restore the Church to its fundamentals. Images of the Prophets, of Saints and the Stars are forbidden. Temples are not to be larger than they need to be to provide for the population of the region it is. Displays of wealth and opulence are sinful, and therefore forbidden. The position of Regent has been dissolved, and will be instead filled by the College of Lights. Lights and Luminaries will not be titles to be thrown around at will. They will only be filled by those who are attuned to the star of the Office they are filling.

Spirituality

• Why is it important to seek harmony with the Bloodstars?

Spiritual health can only be achieved through a proper understanding of the hidden motions of one's blood.

• How can we become more resonant with the Bloodstars?

Through prayer, meditation, and continuous consideration of the Bloodstars in our daily actions.

• How can meditation bring us closer to the Bloodstars?

In a state of proper, devout meditation, the enlightened believer becomes receptive to a higher form of Bloodstar influence: divine visions. Properly expressed into words, the divine visions of Holy Prophets Mathurin Hossenfeffer and Jonsu Himoura have become the basis of Iconoclastic Astroism.

The Holy Church

• Why is the Church necessary?

While True Faith and proper spiritual practice are possible outside the Church, spiritual advancement will proceed much faster and on a more certain footing in an organized community of believers. Following the leadership and the example of the Holy Prophet and of his chosen representatives is a quick and safe road to better harmony with the Bloodstars, regardless of one's natural level of resonance.

• What are the purposes of the Church?

Preserving, strengthening and spreading the Faith, as embodied in the Holy Writings and in the traditions of the Church.

• How can believers further the purposes of the Church?

By following the ways of the Cup, the Open Hand and/or the Sword.

The Sword, the Cup and the Open Hand

• What is the way of the Cup?

Spreading the Faith by appropriately presenting it to the profane: "showing the simple perfection of the Stars reflected in a cupful of water". The way of the Cup, associated with the Austere Star, is essential for the growth of the Faith, and often accompanies priesthood.

• What is the way of the Open Hand?

Dealing in a spirit of fellowship with all those who will not reject this approach. The way of the Open Hand, associated with the Auspicious Star, prevents misunderstandings and alleviates the results of bad communication. Always requiring amiable intentions, it often involves the exertion of tact and diplomacy.

• What is the way of the Sword?

Clearing, by sheer force, the ground for the Faith to spread. A powerful, but difficult to control way, the Sword, associated with the Maddening Star, should be used with great caution. There are cases, such as dealing with unreasoning monsters or hardened, hostile heretics, when the Sword is the only way, and needs to be used unsparingly.

Life within the Church

• What are the members of the Church required to do?

Beyond showing proper, common sense behavior in the public halls, there are no strict requirements. Donations and participation in public discussion are recommended, but entirely voluntary.

• How can I participate in everyday discussions within the Church?

By asking the Elders to promote you to full member rank.

• What are some proper ways of addressing other members of the Church?

Either by their secular titles, or "Brother" and "Sister". "Father" or "Mother" is customary for priests and "Your Serene Holiness" for the Prophet.

• How can I find out more about the organization of the Church?

By visiting a temple and examining the ranks or by asking a member of the Elder Council.