Westridge Ecclesiastic Requirements

== Introduction ==
== History ==
== The Requirements ==
# Fidelity to the Holy Light
## It is promulgated that all members of the Church, from the ordained clergy to the devout laity, shall hold steadfast fidelity to the Holy Light, the divine essence that illuminates and guides the path of the faithful.
## The Holy Light, as the embodiment of the Three Virtues, is to be revered and honored as the source of spiritual enlightenment and divine grace within the Church of the Holy Light.
## It is decreed that any deviation from the principles of the Holy Light, including acts of malice, deceit, or corruption, shall be deemed a betrayal of the sacred trust bestowed upon the faithful by the Holy Light.
## The clergy, as stewards of the Holy Light, are entrusted with the sacred duty of nurturing and safeguarding the spiritual well-being of the faithful, guiding them in the ways of righteousness and virtue as illuminated by the Holy Light.
## Fidelity to the Holy Light is to be upheld as the cornerstone of the Church's teachings and practices, fostering a community of believers who are bound by the sacred covenant of righteousness and devotion to the divine radiance.
# Obedience of Episcopal Authorities
## It is decreed that all members of the Diocese of Westridge, from the highest cleric to the humblest layperson, shall show unwavering obedience and reverence to the episcopal authority.
## The Bishop of Westridge, as the appointed shepherd of the faithful, is bestowed with divine authority through the sacred traditions of the Church of the Holy Light. Their guidance and decisions are to be regarded as the will of the Church, and their authority is to be respected and upheld at all times.
## Disobedience to episcopal authority is deemed a grave offense, for it disrupts the harmony and unity of the Church and undermines the sacred hierarchy established by the divine will.
## It is the duty of the Bishop of Westridge to exercise their authority with wisdom, compassion, and fidelity to the teachings of the Church of the Holy Light, ensuring that their directives are in accordance with the virtues and traditions of the Church.
## In upholding the authority of the Bishop of Westridge, the faithful contribute to the preservation of the sacred order and unity within the Church of the holy Light, fostering a community of believers who are steadfast in their devotion and obedience.
# Respect for Other Legitimate Authorities
## It is proclaimed that all members of the Church shall uphold the principle of respecting legitimate authorities outside the ecclesiastical realm, recognizing the diverse structures of governance and leadership that exist in secular society.
## The Church acknowledges the existence of diverse secular authorities, including governments, institutions, and organizations, each vested with the responsibility of ensuring order, justice, and the well-being of their respective communities.
## It is decreed that the Church and its members shall abide by the laws and regulations established by secular authorities, provided that such laws do not contradict the teachings and moral precepts of the Church.
## Acts of civil disobedience shall be permissible only in cases where the laws or actions of secular authorities directly violate the fundamental moral principles upheld by the Church, and such disobedience shall be conducted in a manner consistent with the principles of non-violence and respect for the dignity of all individuals.
## Respecting legitimate authorities outside the Church is to be regarded as a manifestation of the Church's commitment to promoting peace, justice, and the common good in collaboration with the broader human community, fostering a spirit of cooperation and mutual respect between the ecclesiastical and secular spheres.
# Restrictions of Secular Authorities
## It is declared that the governance and administration of the Church, as a sacred institution, shall be safeguarded from undue influence and interference by secular authorities, preserving the autonomy and integrity of ecclesiastical affairs.
## The Church, as a spiritual entity, shall be governed by its own hierarchical structure and laws, guided by the teachings of the faith and the traditions of ecclesiastical authority, independent of the direct control or intervention of secular powers.
## The clergy and faithful are called to uphold the independence and spiritual sovereignty of the Church, remaining vigilant against any attempts by secular authorities to undermine the sacred autonomy and mission of the ecclesiastical institution.
## Any attempts by secular authorities to compel the Church to act in violation of its moral principles and religious convictions shall be deemed as an infringement upon the freedom of religion, and the Church shall have the right to resist such encroachments in defense of its spiritual integrity.
## The Church's restriction of secular authorities aims to preserve the purity and autonomy of the Church, safeguarding its ability to fulfill its divine mandate and serve as a beacon of spiritual guidance and moral authority within the broader human community.
# Humility and Temperance
## It is ordained that all members of the Church of the holy Light, from the highest-ranking clergy to the humblest of the faithful, shall embrace humility and temperance as fundamental virtues, embodying the spirit of modesty, self-restraint, and inner strength.
## The Church recognizes that humility is the foundation of all virtues, and it is through humility that the faithful can truly open their hearts to the grace and guidance of the divine.
## The clergy, as spiritual leaders, are called to exemplify humility and temperance in their words, actions, and interactions with the faithful, serving as models of grace and selflessness in their pastoral ministry.
## The Church shall promote teachings and practices that nurture humility and temperance, guiding the faithful to embrace a spirit of simplicity, modesty, and self-denial in their pursuit of spiritual growth and moral integrity.
## Embracing humility and temperance is to be regarded as a cornerstone of the Church of the Holy Light's ethos, fostering a community of believers characterized by their gentle humility, self-restraint, and unwavering commitment to the Three Virtues.
# Deference to Seniority and Station
## It is decreed that all members of the Church of the Holy Light, in their interactions and conduct, shall demonstrate deference and respect to seniority and station, acknowledging the hierarchical structure and the wisdom that comes with experience and spiritual authority.
## The clergy, especially those in positions of seniority and leadership, are to be regarded with reverence and deference, as their experience and spiritual insight serve as valuable sources of guidance and wisdom for the faithful.
## It is proclaimed that acts of insubordination or disrespect towards senior clergy or individuals of higher station within the Church shall be regarded as a breach of the sacred order and shall be subject to appropriate ecclesiastical discipline.
## The clergy, in turn, are called to exercise their authority with humility and compassion, recognizing that their leadership is a sacred trust, and they are to serve as exemplars of virtue and wisdom for the faithful.
## Deference to seniority and station is to be regarded as essential for maintaining the unity, order, and spiritual well-being of the Church, fostering a community of believers who honor and uphold the divine order within the ecclesiastical hierarchy.
# Modesty and Propriety
## It is proclaimed that all members of the Church of the Holy Light, from the clergy to the faithful, shall uphold the principles of modesty and propriety in their conduct, attire, and interactions within the ecclesiastical community.
## The Church recognizes that modesty and propriety are essential virtues that reflect reverence for the sacred space of worship, the dignity of the human person, and the sanctity of the Church as the house of God.
## The clergy are called to exemplify modesty and propriety in their attire and behavior, serving as models of dignity and reverence within the ecclesiastical community and upholding the sacred traditions of the Church.
## In matters of speech and conduct, the faithful are encouraged to demonstrate propriety and decorum, avoiding language or behavior that is disrespectful, irreverent, or disruptive to the solemnity of religious observances and communal gatherings.
## Embracing modesty and propriety is to be regarded as essential for preserving the sanctity and reverence of the Church of the Holy Light, fostering a community of believers who approach the sacred space and communal gatherings with humility, dignity, and a deep sense of reverence for the divine presence.
# Vestmental Privileges
## It is decreed that the Church of the Holy Light, as a sacred institution, shall possess vestmental privileges that encompass the use, design, and significance of liturgical attire and vestments, reflecting the solemnity and reverence of sacred rituals and ceremonies.
## The Church recognizes the symbolic importance of vestments in conveying the sacred nature of religious rites and the spiritual authority of the clergy, and as such, the selection, design, and use of vestments shall be governed by ecclesiastical tradition and propriety.
## The clergy are entrusted with the privilege of wearing distinctive vestments during religious services, serving as visible symbols of their ordained ministry, and as outward signs of their sacred duties and spiritual authority within the ecclesiastical community.
## The design and quality of vestments shall reflect the dignity and reverence befitting the sacred rituals of the Church, and the faithful are called to honor and respect the significance of these vestments as expressions of the Church's rich liturgical heritage.
## Upholding vestmental privileges is to be regarded as essential for preserving the dignity, reverence, and symbolic significance of liturgical attire within the Church, fostering a community of believers who honor and uphold the sacred tradition of ecclesiastical vestments.
# Intoxication, Gambling, and Vagrancy
## It is decreed that the Church of the Holy Light shall uphold the importance of rejecting intoxication, gambling, and vagrancy, recognizing these behaviors as contrary to the moral and spiritual values upheld by the teachings of the faith.
## The Church acknowledges the detrimental effects of intoxication, gambling, and vagrancy on the individual, the family, and the community, and as such, the clergy and faithful are called to abstain from and discourage these behaviors in accordance with the principles of the Holy Light.
## Acts of indulging in intoxication, gambling, or vagrancy within the Church shall be regarded as contrary to the moral values and teachings of the Holy Light, and the faithful are called to uphold a lifestyle that reflects the virtues of sobriety, prudence, and purposeful engagement with the world.
## The clergy are called to provide pastoral care and support to those who may struggle with addiction, financial irresponsibility, or aimlessness, offering guidance and assistance in seeking healing, renewal, and a return to virtuous living in accordance with the teachings of the faith.
## Upholding the rejection of intoxication, gambling, and vagrancy in the Church of the Holy Light is to be regarded as essential for fostering a community of believers who embody the virtues of sobriety, responsible stewardship, and purposeful engagement with the world, upholding the moral and spiritual values of the faith.
# Integrity in Word and Action
## It is decreed that the Church of the Holy Light shall uphold the importance of integrity in word and action, recognizing the sacred value of truthfulness, honesty, and ethical conduct as essential virtues for clergy and faithful.
## The clergy of the Church are entrusted with the responsibility of preaching and teaching the teachings of the Holy Light with sincerity, transparency, and moral uprightness, guiding the faithful with words that reflect the integrity and truth of the faith.
## Acts of deception, dishonesty, or ethical misconduct within the Church shall be regarded as contrary to the principles of integrity upheld by the teachings of the Holy Light, and the faithful are called to uphold a lifestyle that reflects the virtues of truthfulness, honesty, and ethical conduct in all aspects of their lives.
## The clergy are called to lead by example, demonstrating integrity in their pastoral care, leadership, and interactions, and providing moral guidance and support to the faithful in upholding the principles of integrity in their daily lives.
## Upholding integrity in word and action in the Church of the Holy Light is to be regarded as essential for fostering a community of believers who embody the virtues of truthfulness, honesty, and ethical conduct, upholding the moral and spiritual values of the faith in all aspects of their lives.
# Selflessness and Service
## It is decreed that the Church of the Holy Light shall uphold the importance of selflessness and service, recognizing the virtues of compassion, altruism, and sacrificial love as essential principles for clergy and faithful.
## The Church acknowledges the significance of selflessness and service as foundational virtues that exemplify the teachings of the Holy Light, and as such, the clergy and faithful are called to embody these virtues in their lives, interactions, and ministries.
## The clergy of the Church are entrusted with the responsibility of selflessly serving the spiritual, emotional, and physical needs of the faithful, offering pastoral care, guidance, and support with compassion, humility, and sacrificial love.
## Acts of selfishness, indifference, or neglect of the needs of others within the Church shall be regarded as contrary to the principles of selflessness and service upheld by the teachings of the Holy Light, and the faithful are called to prioritize the well-being and welfare of their fellow believers and all those in need.
## Upholding selflessness and service in the Church of the Holy Light is to be regarded as essential for fostering a community of believers who embody the virtues of compassion, altruism, and sacrificial love, upholding the moral and spiritual values of the faith through acts of selfless service and compassionate care for others.
# Adherence to Established Doctrine
## It is decreed that the Church of the Holy Light shall uphold the importance of adherence to established doctrine, recognizing the sacred value of the foundational teachings, traditions, and doctrines of the faith as revealed through the divine Light.
## The Church acknowledges the significance of established doctrine as the bedrock of its spiritual identity and unity, and as such, the clergy and faithful are called to honor, study, and adhere to the established teachings and traditions of the Holy Light.
## The clergy of the Church are entrusted with the responsibility of preserving and proclaiming the authentic doctrines and traditions of the faith, teaching sound doctrine, and safeguarding the spiritual heritage of the ecclesiastical community.
## Acts of promoting or adhering to doctrines contrary to established doctrine within the Church shall be regarded as contrary to the spiritual unity and truth of the Holy Light, and the faithful are called to uphold the orthodox teachings of the faith and resist the influence of teachings that deviate from established doctrine.
## Upholding adherence to established doctrine in the Church of the Holy Light is to be regarded as essential for preserving the spiritual purity, unity, and integrity of the faith, fostering a community of believers who are steadfast in their commitment to the authentic teachings and traditions of the Holy Light.
# Rejection of Heresies
## It is decreed that the Church of the Holy Light shall uphold the importance of rejecting heresies, safeguarding the purity and integrity of the teachings and doctrines of the faith as revealed through the divine Light.
## The clergy of the Church are entrusted with the responsibility of preserving the orthodoxy of the faith, teaching sound doctrine, and guarding the faithful against the influence of erroneous beliefs that undermine the spiritual unity and truth of the Holy Light.
## The Church shall promote teachings and practices that nurture a discerning spirit among the faithful, guiding them to recognize and refute heretical doctrines that threaten the spiritual well-being and unity of the ecclesiastical community.
## Acts of promoting or adhering to heretical beliefs within the Church shall be regarded as contrary to the purity and unity of the faith, and the faithful are called to uphold the orthodox teachings of the Holy Light and resist the influence of false doctrines.
## Upholding the rejection of heresies in the Church of the Holy Light is to be regarded as essential for preserving the spiritual purity, unity, and integrity of the faith, fostering a community of believers who are steadfast in their commitment to the authentic teachings of the Holy Light and the rejection of falsehood and distortion.
# Service to the Crown
## It is decreed that the Church of the Holy Light shall uphold the importance of service to the King of Stormwind, recognizing the monarch as the earthly authority vested with the responsibility of governance and the protection of the realm.
## The Church acknowledges the sovereignty of the King of Stormwind and the significance of the monarchy in upholding the stability, order, and well-being of the realm, and pledges its support in promoting the common good and the welfare of the kingdom.
## The Church shall foster a spirit of cooperation and mutual respect with the royal authorities, offering counsel and moral guidance to the monarch and the ruling class in matters of governance, justice, and ethical leadership.
## Acts of sedition, rebellion, or disrespect towards the King of Stormwind and the royal institution shall be regarded as contrary to the principles of the Church, and the faithful are called to demonstrate loyalty, respect, and support for the legitimate authority of the monarchy.
## Upholding the service of the King of Stormwind in the Church of the Holy Light is to be regarded as a manifestation of the Church's commitment to promoting peace, stability, and the common good within the kingdom, fostering a harmonious relationship between the ecclesiastical and secular authority for the betterment of the realm and its inhabitants.
# Fealty and Lordship
## It is decreed that the Church of the Holy Light shall uphold the importance of fealty and lordship, recognizing the sacred value of loyalty, service, and honor in the relationships between the Church, House of Wrynn, and House Montclair in that order.
## The Church acknowledges the significance of fealty and lordship as essential principles that foster harmony, cooperation, and mutual support within the ecclesiastical community and the noble houses, and as such, the clergy and faithful are called to demonstrate reverence, loyalty, and respect in their interactions with the House of Wrynn and House Montclair.
## The clergy of the Church are entrusted with the responsibility of offering prayers for the wisdom, guidance, and prosperity of the House of Wrynn and House Montclair, seeking the divine blessing and protection for the noble houses and their endeavors.
## Acts of rebellion, disrespect, or disloyalty towards the House of Wrynn and House Montclair within the Church shall be regarded as contrary to the principles of fealty and lordship, and the faithful are called to demonstrate reverence, loyalty, and support for the noble houses in all matters pertaining to their governance and leadership.
## Upholding fealty and lordship in the Church of the Holy Light is to be regarded as essential for fostering a harmonious relationship between the ecclesiastical and secular authorities, promoting peace, stability, and the common good within the realm, while upholding the moral and spiritual values of the faith.