"In every shadow, there is a lesson; in every moment of darkness, an opportunity to bring forth the dawn.— excerpt from the "Mandate of the Suntouched"
Introduction
The Church of the Suntouched is one of the dominant religious institutions in Kena’an, embodying the divine teachings and will of Novirath , god of The Sun, justice, and virtue. Rooted in both myth and history, the Suntouched seeks to spread the light of truth, valor, and compassion across the world. Its followers, guided by the teachings of the Seraph , The Seven Rays, and numerous clergy and warriors, strive to uphold virtue, protect the weak, and maintain order in all things.
History and Myth
The Suntouched is a religious organization that traces its origins to both myth and recorded history. The church's founding blends divine intervention and human effort in equal measusre, a fact that shaped its form as it is today.
The Sunkissed Boy
by Midjourney
The faith’s origins are enshrined in the legendary Tale of the Sunkissed, a story of a young boy blessed by Novirath in a time when an eternal winter gripped the world. Gifted with the warmth of summer, the boy’s footsteps left trails of green in the snow, and his presence melted ice not only from the land but also from the hearts of those who followed him. They called him Luminaris, the Bringer of Light, who banished winter’s grip with hope and faith. Though the tale is often regarded as symbolic rather than historical, Luminaris is revered as the first Seraph of the Suntouched, embodying the virtues of courage, compassion, and renewal.
Seven Day Long Eclipse
The first recorded founding of the Suntouched took place in 1232 BDA, during a rare and harrowing solar eclipse that plunged the world into darkness for seven days. Fear and chaos gripped the people, their cries of despair echoing through shadowed lands. In response, a group of leaders emerged, seeking to restore order and offer hope. Among them was a figure who took the name Luminaris, invoking the legendary Sunkissed Boy. This leader united the frightened masses, invoking the name of Novirath and forming the foundation of the Suntouched. Though often mistaken with the mythic Luminaris, this Seraph is not the legendary boy. He is the first officially recognized leader of the faith, solidifying the church's teachings and guiding principles.
Aeleen, The Lioness
by Midjourney
Aeleen, known as The Lioness, is the most revered saint of the Suntouched Church. Her story began with the
Radiant Blessing, when a male lion, driven by the agony of caring for his orphaned cub, terrorized the forests. After the lion was slain, the people found the cub and faced a choice: to kill it or care for it. A young mute girl stepped forward, protecting the cub, and in that moment, the cub transformed into liquid light and merged with her. She then spoke in the celestial tongue, delivering the
Luminary Doctrine, which outlined the
Seraph's duties as
Novirath's chosen.
Saint Aeleen's writings, including the
Mandate of the Suntouched, became the foundational texts of the Church. Her legacy remains central to the faith, symbolizing compassion, justice, and divine guidance.
Hierarchy & Leadership
"As the Seraph walks the path of righteousness, so too must the people follow. The strength of the Suntouched lies in his unwavering commitment to the Light, his unyielding pursuit of truth, and his boundless compassion for the faithful."— excerpt from the "Luminary Doctrine"
The Seraph
At the pinnacle of the Suntouched hierarchy stands the
Seraph, the ultimate authority on all matters of faith and the embodiment of
Novirath's will on earth. The
Seraph serves as both a spiritual guide and a unifying figurehead, offering clarity in times of doubt and ensuring the Church remains steadfast in its mission. Appointed for life through the sacred
Radiant Convergence ritual, the
Seraph's role is deeply revered, and their decisions are considered divine truth.
The Seven Rays
Directly beneath the
Seraph are
The Seven Rays, an all-male council of seven arch clerics, each in charge of the faith to one of the seven regions of Kena’an. These regions are vast and culturally diverse, and the Rays are tasked with ensuring that
Novirath's light reaches every corner of the land. Each of the Rays have three High Clerics directly beneath them.
The Seven Rays are chosen from among the most virtuous and accomplished High Clerics. When a
Seraph's position becomes vacant,
The Seven Rays conduct the
Radiant Convergence ritual, seeking divine guidance to appoint the new leader of the Suntouched from their ranks.
by Midjourney
"We are the shield to the helpless, the sword to the oppressed. It is through our protection that the Light shines brightest. No man, woman, or child should be left to suffer beneath the weight of cruelty or injustice. In standing for them, we stand for Novirath, for He is both the shield and the sword."— excerpt from the "Mandate of the Suntouched"
The High Clerics
The High Clerics serve as regional administrators under the guidance of The Seven Rays, ensuring the faith is upheld across smaller divisions within their territories. While they answer to their respective Rays, High Clerics often play a significant role in shaping the Church’s presence in their communities. They manage local clergy, oversee the construction and maintenance of temples, and mediate disputes among priests. Both men and women may serve as High Clerics, though only men High Clerics are eligible to ascend to the rank of Ray.
The Clergy
by Midjourney
The Priests and Clergy are the backbone of the Church, tasked with ministering to the faithful, conducting rituals, and spreading
Novirath’s light through acts of compassion and devotion. Their lives are deeply intertwined with their local communities, making them the most accessible representatives of the faith. As the Church’s most visible members, priests often act as mediators, educators, and moral authorities in their communities.
The Holy Warriors
The Paladins and Warpriests are the holy warriors of the Suntouched, charged with defending the faithful and enforcing the Protector's justice. They also serve as symbols of
Novirath's valor and strength, inspiring others to stand against darkness.While Paladins are frontline warriors who lead crusades and protect holy sites, Warpriests are strategists and spellcasters who wield both martial prowess and divine power.
by Midjourney
The Inquisitors
The Inquisitors are tasked with rooting out heresy, corruption, and threats to the Church from within. Operating with a degree of autonomy, they report directly to the Rays and the
Seraph, ensuring their investigations remain impartial and uncompromised. While they wield significant authority, they are bound by strict codes of conduct to prevent abuse of power.Though often feared due to their investigative nature, Inquisitors are seen as necessary protectors of the faith’s integrity.
The Acolytes
At the base of the hierarchy are the Acolytes, those in training to become priests, clerics, or paladins, and the Lay Members, faithful individuals who support the Church without holding clerical positions. The Acolytes undergo rigorous training in theology, combat, or divine magic, depending on their intended role. The Lay Members on the other hand, serve the Suntouched in practical ways, such as maintaining temples, organizing community events, and assisting clergy.
by Midjourney
Holy Places
The Church’s influence spans across Kena’an, with key sacred locations that embody the faith’s core principles, its deep connection to Novirath, and its journey through history. These holy sites, each with its unique significance, serve as places of pilgrimage, divine reflection, and spiritual strength for the followers of the Protector.
Goldenleaf Forest
Nestled in
Keraian, the
Goldenleaf Forest, home to the rare and sacred
Aurum Oaks, is the most easily accessible of the holy places. This enchanting forest is a symbol of the balance between light and nature, with its golden canopy reflecting the divine presence of
Novirath. The forest’s serenity and connection to divine light make it a perfect place for those seeking enlightenment and strength on their spiritual journey.
The Marble Miracle
The most revered of all holy places, the
Marble Miracle stands as the spiritual center of the Suntouched Church. Located in the heart of the capital city of
Thandor, this awe-inspiring temple district is where the
Seraph resides and presides over the Church’s activities. It is here that the
Radiant Convergence takes place, the sacred ritual to choose the next
Seraph.
Lake of Lost Souls
Once a serene and sacred body of water in Myltery, the
Lake of Lost Souls now stands as a grim reminder of the dangers of corruption and forsaking the light. The lake, which once served as a place for meditation and divine reflection, is now infested with undead creatures. The transformation of this once-holy site into a domain of darkness is something the Church of
Novirath carries as a deep wound. The cleansing of the Lake is one of the highest quests and goals of the faithful.
Winter's Rest
Far to the north in the
Frozen Lands of Ekiran lies
Winter’s Rest, a miraculous sanctuary where the oppressive cold and snow give way to thriving, vibrant nature. This sacred grove is protected by the divine will of
Novirath, making it a place of peace, renewal, and healing. Only the bravest of pilgrims travel to Winter’s Rest seeking solace and restoration, as the region is located in a hostile enviroment where the God's enemies- like the infamous tribes of the
Glaciarcs- thrive.
"May the Sun’s truth illuminate your way, may your shadow never falter, and may your heart hold the ember of everlasting dawn."— Seraph Valorian
With light, comes truth; with truth, comes virtue
Type
Religious, Organised Religion
Alternative Names
The Luminous, The Church of Sun, The Pure
Tenets of the Faith
Embrace the Light
Seek truth, wisdom, and understanding to banish the darkness.
Protect the Weak
Stand as a shield for those who cannot defend themselves.
Honor Virtue
Live with integrity, courage, and humility.
Seek Justice
Uphold fairness and law, tempered with mercy.
Persevere in Trials
Stand firm in times of hardship, trusting in Novirath’s light.
Radiate Valor
Face adversity with courage and resolve.
Related Articles
Women in the Suntouched
While the Church of Novirath recognizes and reveres women for their strength, virtue, and wisdom, certain roles, such as that of the Seraph and the Seven Rays, are reserved for men. This distinction stems from the belief in Novirath's divine order, wherein the roles of men and women are seen as complementary, yet distinct in their sacred duties.
As Novirath is the god of virtue, light, and valor, he also upholds the sanctity of life itself, which women, as bearers of life, hold in the highest regard. It is considered sacred that a woman’s connection to life through motherhood transcends any other role she might take on, even that of the Seraph. The vow of celibacy that accompanies the positions of Seraph and the Seven Rays is viewed as contrary to a woman’s divine role as a life-giver, making such an oath incongruent with her sacred purpose.
Holy Texts
The most revered holy texts of the Suntouched are The Mandate of the Suntouched and The Luminary Doctrine, both penned by
Saint Aeleen, known as "The Lioness." These sacred writings form the cornerstone of the faith.
Saint Aeleen's celestial insight, granted through the
Radiant Blessing, imbues these texts with divine authority, making them essential to the life and practice of every follower of
Novirath.
"Mandate of the Suntouched" by Midjourney
The
Mandate of the Suntouched is the core scripture of the Church, said to have been written by
Saint Aeleen, in the celestial tongue. It outlines the doctrine, moral teachings, and duties of the faithful. There are many copies of this holy book, but the original is highly secured in the
Sanctuary of Light, the Grand Cathedral of
Novirath located in
Thandor.
"Luminary Doctrine" by Midjourney
A collection of laws and guiding principles that govern the hierarchy and rituals of the Suntouched Church. It includes directives for clergy, paladins, and lay members. Written in a formal, almost legalistic tone, this text is divided into sections such as “The Duties of the Seraph,” “On Conducting the Radiant Convergence,” and “The Oaths of the Paladins.”
The Church also treasures several other sacred texts. The Hymns of Radiance provide the faithful with songs of praise and devotion, often sung during ceremonies and holy days. The Chronicles of Luminaris weave together myth and history, recounting the lives of legendary figures and the foundation of the faith. The Testaments of Saint Aeleen offer deeply personal reflections and visions, inspiring individual devotion and spiritual growth. Together, these texts enrich the spiritual and moral fabric of the Suntouched Church, offering guidance and inspiration to followers across Kena’an.
Oh Novirath, protector bright,
Shield us in thy holy light.
As dawn ascends and shadows flee,
In thee, our souls are ever free.
Oh light that breaks the darkened veil,
From thee, all truths prevail.
Guide us now, thy chosen kin,
Let thy warmth redeem our sin.
— from the "Hymns of Radiance
A Rumored Holy Place
Echo Island
Hidden deep within the remote Aerithia Archipelago, Echo Isle is whispered to be the birthplace of Luminaris, the Sunkissed Boy. Time twists upon itself in this enigmatic place, warping moments and obscuring reality. No known pilgrim has set foot on its shores in recent memory, yet ancient myths claim that reaching Echo Isle is the ultimate test of devotion. Those who succeed are said to receive unique gifts, such as profound spiritual clarity and an unshakable bond with the divine radiance of Novirath himself.
Can I copy all of this and use it for my order? No, joking aside, but I don't even dare to start my article, this one is so great again and I'm afraid there might be some overlap. Thank you for using my myth with the lion as inspiration, which I'm very honored about. Especially since it was really a spontaneous inspiration in connection with QuriLION's call for the downfall of gods in the challenge chat. I don't want to reveal what it was originally supposed to be, because it just wouldn't fit now. You made something wonderful out of it with your lion. Thank you for this inspiring soulmate article.
You are so kind Blue! I'm thrilled you liked this! You should absolutely do your article, I for one would love to read it! Your work is always so inspiring <3