Church of Amateru

The church of Amateru is a monotheistic and animist religion practiced by inhabitants of the island nation of Orini. Worshippers venerate Amateru, the omnipotent creator of all things.  

Beliefs

Before she created the universe, Amateru was the only thing in existence. As such, she used parts of herself to create all things. As a result, everything in the universe is suffused with her divine essence and is considered worthyof respect and often veneration. The mountains and forests that make up the majority of Orini are particularly respected, but even the smallest creature or plant is considered holy in its own right.   Amaterans believe that the act of creation will always infuse the manufactured object with some of the essence of the creator. Therefore, artisans and craftsmen are considered to have considerable strength of will to supply their creative output. They are also highly respected in society and expected to take their time with their creations.   This belief also makes adherents of the church of Amateru to be particularly good at enchanting items.  

Clergy

The clergy of the church is organized into a hierarchy that parallels the hierarchy of the Orini government, and the church plays an intrinsic part in how the government is run.   The head of the church is the Imari. She resides in the Temple of Amateru atop Mt. Amateru in the Chichi Mountains. She is responsible for directing the major rituals of the church, and governs the country along with the Imyo (head of state).   Each province of Orini is assigned to a Hanari, who are one step below the Imari in rank. They each reside in a major temple within each province and work with the Hanyo to administer the provincial government.   Finally, each fief within the province is assigned a Sanari who works alongside the local Sanyo to ensure that laws are upheld and see to local government administration. Unlike the higher ranks of the clergy who spend much of their time on governmental administration, the Sanari spend most of their time dedicated to ministering the tenants of their faith and conducting religious ceremonies, blessings, and offerings.