Church of Odin

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Overview

The Church of Odin is the primary religion throughout the Rune-Midgard and Republic of Schwarzwald regions. While the presence of the Church exists in Schwarzwald, it is overly prevalent in Rune-Midgard, with the vast majority of its citizens seeming to be followers of the religion. The main physical church is located in Prontera and many people flock to its doors. The biggest opponent of the Church is the theocratic region of the Arunafeltz States, which openly--and fervently-- worships Freyja to the seeming exclusion of all other gods. Relations between the two religions had been largely neutral for a period of time but it seems that tensions are on the rise.

Followers of Odin tend to refer to him as "God," suggesting that they view the Aesir as the one and only god. However, it is more likely that the citizens simply pray to him as the main god of their pantheon, as other gods definitely exist. It seems unlikely that the worship of Freyja is completely banned, as some followers have been known to invoke her before; however, it is likely stigmatized or possibly associated with branches of the actual Church, rather than the Church as a whole.

Other deities influence Midgard as well. Adventurers who have proved themselves worthy of undergoing the Transcendence process meet not only with a Valkyrie, but also Urd, Verdandi, and Skuld, the three Goddesses of Fate. It is likely that followers also worship Frigg, Odin's Wife, as a probable goddess of growth and fertility. The famous Frigg's Song has been sung by Minstrels across the lands. Odin's son, Thor, also probably has some followers, as it has been said that he was directly responsible for creating his namesake, Thor's Volcano.

Common motifs among Church members include wearing crosses as adornments, prayer and atonement, and the strive to do what is right and good. It is believed that Church members that become Acolytes, Knights, and Crusaders, and higher-ranking members are blessed by Odin and have received Holy powers to aid in their quests and missions. Members who work out of individual churches are expected to give to their community, offer sanctuary to those who seek it, and help others as best as they are able. It is implied, but not mandated, that all church members fight against the Undead and Demons, and as a result, have received many forms of training agains them, such as Demon Bane, Divine Protection, Magnus Exorcismus, Turn Undead, and others.

See Also