Neo-Christianity

**Lore Page**

## Founding

The rise of Neo-Christianity marked a significant shift in the religious landscape as humanity entered the space age. With the emergence of new faiths introduced by alien life forms and the prevalence of atheism on Earth, the various Christian sects recognized the need for unity in the face of these challenges. Through extensive deliberation and negotiation, a merge was proposed to accommodate the diverse beliefs while maintaining the core tenets of each sect.

This collaborative effort led to the establishment of Neo-Christianity, a new church that sought to respect and honor all participating sects. The election of the first Prime Apostle, akin to a Pope, provided leadership and guidance during this transformative period. Under the Prime Apostle's direction, Neo-Christianity experienced a remarkable revival, witnessing a doubling of its followers within a span of 20 years. As a result, Neo-Christianity emerged as the primary religion among humans and in the Sol system, solidifying its place in the interstellar community.

## Core Beliefs

Neo-Christianity keeps the core beliefs that Christ died for your sins and that you should accept him as your personal Lord and savior to be saved. Most Neo-Christians even believe that xenos can convert even if not made in the image of God. It also keeps the tenants such as mercy, love, forgiveness, peace, and charity. However, external factors have provoked them to create Crusaders that are tasked to kill those that the church considers evil or heretics. Overall, it is a mostly tolerant religion.

## The Stations

### Clergy

The Clergy membership requires individuals to undergo testing and attend specialized courses provided by the church. These rigorous programs ensure that Clergy members are knowledgeable about all Neo-Christian sects and their distinct beliefs, enabling them to cater to the spiritual needs of their followers. The Priest(ess) is the most common role within the Clergy, serving at a church, while an Arch-Priest(ess) is the leader of the church. Priest(ess)s are responsible for conducting ceremonies, spreading the faith, and leading prayers for their congregation. Arch-Priest(ess)s possess additional authority, being able to perform Priest(ess) Ceremonies, or even excommunicate members from the church. Both Priest(ess)s and Arch-Priest(ess)s may perform Crusader Ceremonies.

(After completing their tests and courses.)

**Priest(ess) Ceremony:**

Both the Arch-Priest(ess) and person are within a Neo-Christian church.

The Arch-Priest(ess) and person are each holding their own cross.

The Arch-Priest(ess) asks "Do you wish to sell your cloak and follow the Lord as a Priest(ess)?"

The person gives an affirmative answer, such as "Yes." or "I do."

The two exchange crosses, handing theirs to the other.

The Arch-Priest(ess) says "We both follow the one true God, Christ guide you as you guide others."

The Arch-Priest(ess) pours a bucket of holy water over the person's head.

The person is now a Priest(ess).

### Crusader

Crusaders are individuals who have been elevated by a member of the Clergy and are bound to follow the orders of the Clergy in their service to the church. Once they have pledged themselves, their pledge can only be absolved by an Arch-Priest(ess) or higher authority. The primary mission of Crusaders is to protect and defend God's people, carrying out their sacred duty to eradicate those who pose a threat to the faithful.

**Crusader Ceremony:**

Both the Priest(ess) and person are within a Neo-Christian church.

The person bows to the Priest(ess).

The Priest(ess) puts his hand on the person's head.

The Priest(ess) asks him to repeat the Crusader Oath after them.

"I shall not murder."

"I shall not steal."

"I shall not destroy."

"I shall only bring the sword of righteous justice to the enemies of the Lord."

The Priest(ess) removes his hand from the person's head.

The Priest(ess) pours a bucket of holy water over the person's head.

The person is now a Crusader.

### Member

Neo-Christians have many members and no formal ritual must occur to be considered one. This is because being a Neo-Christian mostly is a relationship with God. The church merely exists to act as a protector and organizer of the faith.