The Holy Teachings of Good
The Holy Teachings of Good (Volume 1, Second Edition)
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Untitled Sermon on Austinian's Light
Children of light and dark, I greet you with light.
As you may know, I speak often of our Gracious Lord Austinian, for as always
I am most joyous to be in his divine presence. I have been moved to share
with you ways to enrich your living, that you might fill what is missing in
your spirit, the lifeblood that Austinian provides.
What you need to do on a daily basis is practice love. That seems very
simple, but ultimately, that is the answer. For love and compassion is the
glue that holds all things together. When I say 'love, ' I do not mean love
as a sentiment, a romantic feeling. When I say love, I mean your desire and
your will focused with the intention to penetrate and to realize the truth
of who you are day by day. Honor the experince of that truth and stand with
that truth as your sword of light, as a child of the light... We are all
from the light.
Demonstrate the truth of your love to others simply through your presance,
not going out and telling others what to do. Instead, show them the way to
love and live in truth in the ways that you live your life daily.
Demonstrate that love by the way in which you honor yourself and your truth,
the ever-unfolding revelation of that truth as you daily become more and
more of who you are.
Let go of the bonds of your limitations, as you let go of the bond of the
frozen frame of your ego's reality. The ego only keeps you in fear and
separation. Illustrate all of that as an example to others and you honor
their individuality. Honor their truth and listen with an open heart.
Listen with a compassionate heart.
Let go of all judgment of yourself and of others and allow that place of
non-judgment to be a place of detachment. You will then allow reality to be
an experience of growth, of the realization of life, of passion for more and
more life each day.
Allow each moment of each day to be a death and a resurrection. Allow
each old idea, each old feeling to die in its momentary expereince and to be
reborn into a new experience in the next moment. Hold onto nothing from the
past. Release yourself from all personal history, all of the past
traumatizing experiences that keep you in the limitation of the form of your
reality and the experience and expression of your reality today.
Allow that all life is equal, in that you are each entitled to loving and
light and receiving this love and light. Each person is an individual and
in that way they are equal. Of course, you are all in different stages of
development - but in each one of those states of development, not one person
is superior or inferior. Each stage is merely a level or realization or
discovery that needs to be made. Honor that and see the divinity in that.
See the joy of that. Love the differences in that. Learn from that. Know
that each man is your master teacher and that you are the master teacher of
every other man, woman and child. We are all life-shapers to each other,
under the grace of Austinian.
You are the student of life and the teacher simultaneously. So is each
individual that you meet. Know that when you look into the each face, you
see in their heart of hearts the face of Austinian standing before you.
That indivdiual is teaching you about yourself, revealing ever the truth of
who you are. That is how, day by day, you can live your life as a soul and
unfold your soul's essence to honor the truth of self as sacred and dear.
Stand by your individual truth and ability to give. Stand alone in that
truth, no matter what another one says, no matter how another judges you.
Seek not another's permission. Seek not another's validation for your
actions. Honor every action that you make. Honor your truth and honor the
truth and self of others. An old adage: Do unto others as you would have
them do unto you. This is a good rule to follow. It allows you to take
responsibility for your actions. If you make a choice and take an action,
think about it and if you realize that you would not want to experience the
results of your own action, then do not do it. Do nothing that harms
another and do nothing that harms you. Accept everything as it is, but
accept nothing as truth unless it resonates within you. And most
importantly, always remember to love yourself as you love one another.
Many have said that the ways of dark include all of the ways of light, while
allowing room for other beliefs and truths. Hear me now, children of light
and dark, this is a falsehood and a dangerous way of thinking. Certainly,
there are those civil and perhaps even kind amongst the glittering world of
the dark gods, but do not fall victim to their nicities and untruths... For
the only path that leads to the fullest development of the soul is the path
which I have shown you, the path that leads to the grace of Austinian. The
path that walks the footsteps of good.
I leave it to you to discern this truth for yourself. Stand in nature.
Stand in the sun. Feel the wind, the rain. Stand in your church. Lay down
your sword. Cease your life of endless judging, endless balancing. Think
of the families of the men you have killed. Think of your actions. Your
reactions. Think of good, and of the greater good. And then remember
Austinian, and let his light be your redemption.
Torey al Kian
Priestess of Austinian
Elder, Church of Austinian
Building a Temple to Austinian
Many of the followers of the vast faiths across this land feel as if they
have no unity. Many just exist within their religion with no actions taken
to honor their god. Others desire an outward point of focus to spread the
belief of their deities. A beacon, if you will, a temple or church in which
the followers of said deity may gather without fear. They desire the wealth
of other believers, not for their own sake, but in order to do good with it,
to spread their message, and to bless others.
I speak now to those who would build their temples: If it is your real
motive to help others in desiring the the constructions of your churches,
shrines and temples, then it will come to you; for you are strong and
unselfish indeed if in the midst of your successes and the completed
structure, you are willing to look upon yourself a steward and not as owner.
But examine well your motive, for in the majority of instances where money
is desired for the admitted object of blessing others, the real underlying
motive is a love of popularity, and a desire to pose as a philanthropist or
reformer.
If you are not doing good with what little you have, depend upon it the more
money you receive, the more selfish you will become, and all the good you
appeared to do with your temple, if indeed you attempted to do any, would be
so much insinuating self-praise.
If your real desire is to do good, there is no need to wait for money before
you do it; you can do it now, this very moment, and just where you are. You
may honor Austinian by sacrificing your time for others now. You may spread
the word of Austinian, or of your chosen deity, through your actions. No
matter how poor you are, no matter what god you follow, there is room for
the giving of self, and a compassionate, listening, and understanding heart.
The heart that truly desires to do good and does not wait for a grand quest
before doing it, but comes to the altar of sacrifice, and, leaving there the
unworthy elements of self, goes out and breathes upon neighbor and stranger,
friend and enemy alike, the breath of blessedness.
I speak now to the followers of Austinian: We are many, and spread
throughout the land. Many of you feel that you have no means to help
others, that you are too insignificant, too poor, too unskilled. That what
you could do would not make a ripple of difference in the grand scheme of
things. This is not true.
As the effect is related to the cause, so is prosperity and power related to
the inward good, and poverty and weakness to the inward evil. Go out into
the world, and give your love and compassion to all... For your actions are
the church of Austinian. Your compassion is the altar upon which all things
sacrad are lain. Your love of others is the only shrine needed to fully
honor our blessed Lord. As devout of Austinian, you must not wait to go out
and do his will, you must begin today, and you must never stop this stream
of love and understanding.
Many of our Lord's followers say, "How can I love the drunkard, the
hypocrite, the thief, the murderer? I am compelled to dislike and condemn
such men." It is true you cannot love such men emotionally, but when you
say that you must of necessity dislike and condemn them you will show that
you are not acquainted with the Great overruling Love; for it is possible to
attain to such a state of interior enlightenment as will enable you to
perceive the train of causes by which these men have become as they are, to
enter into their intense suffering, and to know the certainty of their
ultimate purification. Possessed of such knowledge it will be utterly
impossible for you any longer to dislike or condemn them, and you will
always think of them with perfect calmness and deep compassion.
If you love people and speak of them with praise until they in some way
thwart you, or do something of which you disapprove, and then you dislike
them and speak of them with dispraise, you are not governed by the Divine
Goodness which is of Austinian. If, in your heart, you are continually
arraigning and condemning others, selfless love and the true path to
divinity is hidden from you.
He who knows that Divine Goodness is at the heart of all things, and has
realized the all-sufficing power of that love, has no room in his heart for
condemnation. Austinian does not so brand and classify men; does not seek
to convert men to his own views, not to convince them of the superiority of
his methods. Knowing the Law of Goodness, he exudes it, and maintains the
same calm attitude of mind and sweetness of heart towards all. The debased
and virtuous, the foolish and the wise, the learned and the unlearned, the
selfish and the unselfish receive alike the benediction of his tranquil
thought. So shall I not condemn any man for his faith, nor try to sway them
persistantly from their views, but shall only talk and listen, answer their
questions, and invite you to do the same. For I take refuge in the
knowledge of a single fact:
We were all born of Austinian. His light exists within all.
Recognising this light is the most important thing that will ever happen in
ones existance. Standing upon the imperishable Principles of Purity,
Compassion, Wisdom and Love, we are eternal; we are one with our most
gracious Lord of Greatness. Seeing the realities of things, we can find no
room anywhere for condemnation. All the operations that occur upon the
earth we may see as instruments of the Good Law, even those called evil.
All men are essentially divine, though unaware of their divine nature, and
all their acts are efforts, even thought many of them are dark and impotent,
to realize some higher good. All so-called evil is seen to be rooted in
ignorance, even those deeds that are called deliberately wicked, so that
condemnation ceases, and Love and Compassion become all in all.
Once again I say to you... We need no physical church, for actions that
honor our Lord are his temple. And you are never too young, poor, unskilled
or unworthy of walking in Austinian's grace.
Your circumstances may be uncongenial, but they shall not long remain so
if you but perceive an Ideal and strive to reach it. You cannot travel
within and stand still without. Whatever your present environment may be,
you will fall, remain, or rise with your thoughts, your Vision, your Ideal.
You will become as small as your controlling desire; as great as your
dominant aspiration.
May you always walk in the light of Austinian, and may your actions hold
steadfast the foundations of his most holy church, created by the actions of
reflecting his Divine Goodness.
In his Holy Name,
Torey al Kian
Priestess of Austinian
Elder, Order of Austinians
A Lesson in Compassion
I recall a child that I once new when I was living in Arkane.
It was one of the hottest days of the dry season. We had not seen rain in a
good while. The crops were dying. Cows had stopped giving milk. The
creeks and streams were long gone back into the earth. It was a dry season
that would cause a large portion of the great forrest to set to flame before
it was through.
Everyday, the farmers would go about the arduous process of trying to get
water to the fields. Lately this process had involved digging new water
ditches, and hiring mages to create water. But severe rationing had cut the
crops off from the main supply of water within the walls of Arkane. Despair
ran high amongst the people as they watched their crops whither and fail,
and though the people were in no danger of perishing, the lands around us
were.
It was during this time period that I learned a true lesson of compassion.
I was tending to my clerical duties, and walking the streets of Arkane when
I witnessed a boy sneak to the central water supply, and cup his hands
within, walking off carefully with a handful of water, east and out the
gates of the city. I could see his back. He was obviously walking with a
great effort... Trying to be as still as possible.
Perhaps half an hour later, he came running back to town again, toward the
fountain. I observed him from a distance, out of sight. Moments later, he
was once again walking in that slow purposeful stride out the east gate of
Arkane. This activity went on for nearly two hours: walk carefully out the
gates of Arkane, run back to the fountain.
Finally my curiosity got the best of me, and slipping on a ring of
invisibility, I followed him on his journey. He was cupping both hands in
front of him as he walked; being very careful not to spill the water he held
in them... Maybe two or three tablespoons were held in his tiny hands. I
snuck close as he went into the Great Forrest.
Branches and thorns slapped his little face but he did not try to avoid
them. He had a much higher purpose. As I leaned in to spy on him, I saw
the most amazing sight.
Several large mountain lions crouched in front of him, but having no fear
the boy advanced directly toward them. I began to shout for him to get
away, but something held my voice back. I realize now that it was
Austinian. The lions did not threaten him... They did not even move as the
boy knelt down. And I saw a tiny lion cub lying on the ground, obviously
suffering from dehydration and the exhaustion that is brought by the heat of
the sun. It lifted its head with great effort to lap up the water cupped by
the wonderful boy's hand.
When the water was gone, the boy jumped up to run back to the fountain, and
I followed close behind. He glanced around himself nervously, as if
expecting to be apprehended for some monstrous deed.
And it came clear to me. The trouble he might have gotten into for
"stealing", the lecture he had received about the importance of not wasting
water. The reason he didn't ask anyone to help him. I removed the ring and
stepped toward him as he filled his cupped hands with water. When he stood
up and began the trek back, I was there in front of him. His eyes just
filled with tears.
"I'm not wasting", was all he said. As he began his walk, I joined him,
dipping a water skin into the fountain and handing it to him. I let him
tend to the cub, and stayed away. It was his job. I stood on the edge of
the woods watching one of the most beautiful souls I have ever known working
so hard to save another life.
As the tears that rolled down my face began to hit the ground, they were
suddenly joined by other drops and more drops and more. I looked up at the
sky. It was as if Austinian, himself, was weeping with pride.
Some will probably say that this was all just a huge coincidence. That the
will of my god does not really exist. That it was Turpa's will to make it
rain sometime.
I can't argue with that... I'm not going to try. All I can say is that
the rain that came that day saved the crops... Just like the actions of one
little boy saved another, and I am hoping that by sharing his story it might
save you as well.
For compassion is the antitoxin of the soul: Where there is compassion, even
the most poisonous surroundings remain relatively harmless.
And blessed are those who can give without remembering and take without
forgetting. Invite the will of Austinian in your life today. Through
selfless service and charity, develop a heart of greatness and cleanse the
soul. Purify your life by selfless and humble service to the poor and
afflicted and make the world a shining reflection of the glory of Austinian.
For only the soul who may give freely, may know the joy that there is to be
found in existance.
May you be blessed.
In Austinians Grace,
Torey al Kian
Priestess of Austinian
Joy and lifes Travails
Children of Austinian,
We chase after joy, like a child after a firefly, being certain that in joy
all problems are solved, all questions are answered. Joy has its rewards,
and we deserve them. But life has more to teach us.
We need to learn patience; through patience we come to respect time and its
passage, and we are mellowed. We need to learn tolerance; through tolerance
our appreciation of anothers individuality is nurtured. We need to learn
self-respect; self-respect prepares us to contribute more freely to our
experiences, and we find wholeness.
Life's travails are our opportunities for lasting, enriching joy. The rough
spots deepen our understandings. And these help us to bring joy not only to
ourselves but to the lives of friends near and dear.
Children of Austinian, you need not turn your back on joy. But instead be
glad for al of life's experiences. The balance of these things, and the
giving spirit of Austinian shall sustain you more fully.
In Service to Austinian,
Torey al Kian
Priestess of Austinian
Wisdom
Wisdom comes with age, but also with maturity. It is knowing that all is
well in the midst of a storm. And as our faith grows, as we trust more than
there is a power greater than ourselves which willsee us through, we can
hold strong in the knowledge, secure, that a better time awaits for us.
You will come to understand the part a difficult circumstance, or a
disheartening revelation has played in our lives. Hindsight makes so much
clear. The joy of the wisdom we are aquiring is that knowledge comes
quickly. We can, on occasion, begin to accept a difficult situation's
contribution to our wholeness while yet caught in the turmoil.
How far we have come! So seldom do we stay caught, realy trapped, in the
fear of misunderstanding or feelings of helplessness. Life and experience
must teach us all we need to know. We can make the way easier by stretching
our trust- by knowing fully that the pain of the present will open the way
tot he serenity of the future. That our current revelations, or current
pains, will better help us to help others in the future.
Our minds mold who we become. Our thoughts not only contribute to our
achievements, but they also determine the posture of our lives. How
powerful our outlook is. On everything. Fortunately, we have the power to
think the thoughts we choose, which means our lives will unfold as much as
we expect.
The seeds we plant in our minds indicate the directions we'll explore in our
spiritual development. And we won't explore areas we've never given
attention to in our reflective moments. We must dare to feel what we feel,
to meet it on full force, to accept the feelings, and to grow wiser from
them. We must dare to face all of these things, if we intend to find
direction, to find truth, and to help spread the greater good.
Our minds, our will prepares us to better serve our lord, to better achieve
what he has set us out to do. They can also prepare us for failure and a
loss of faith if we let our thoughts become darkened.
Children of Austinian, turn your face to the light. Walk with your head
high. Face life, face the emotions that come from all sides, and keep your
face to the light. This is the only way in which to achieve wisdom.
May Austinian guide your hands,
Torey al Kian
Priestess of Austinian
Church of Arkane
The meaning of "despise"
Children of Austinian,
We receive from life, from every experience, from each interaction,
according to what we have given. When we commit ourselves fully to an
experience that honors the Will of Austinian, it will bless us. When we
give ourselves wholly to his will, our awareness of reality will be
heightened. When we risk knowing others, truly knowing them, and helping
them, we will find ourselves.
What does it mean to say that we "despise" someone? Usually it means that
we have invested a lot of energy in darkened, negative feelings; it means
that we have let ourselves care deeply about someone. We would never say we
"despised" someone who wasn't important to us... Else how would they have
affected us and earned these emotions? Why have we chosen to let negative
feelings occupy so much of our hearts?
To some, that negative energy becomes almost an obsession, consuming their
time, gnawing at their self-worth, and tarnishing the bright star of their
spirit. But with the light of Austinian, there comes a moment of lightning
change... A moment of release from the bonds of obsession. The other
person is, after all, just another person- a seeker, just like you. And,
since we cared enough to devote our time and energies to disliking this
soul, they are probably someone who would be rewarding to know.
The Grace of Austinian has given us the opportunity to turn over many
negative feelings, to discover that "friend" and "enemy" can be two sides of
the same person.
May Austinian Guide your Hands,
Torey al Kian
Priestess of Austinian
Finding Good in Others
Children of Austinian, I greet you with Light:
Know that looking for the good in others is good for one's own soul.
Self-respect, self-love, and a closer connection with our Lord Austinian
grows each time we openly acknowledge another's innate goodness.
It is a spiritual truth that our love for, and the praise of others, will
improve the qualities of our lives. And the lives of others.
Praise softens. Criticism hardens.
Many of us don't understand the changing variables in emotion. So it is
best to remember this: Every day our choices and decisions will be many...
But there is only one solution to any problem, and that is the one that our
Higher Power guides us to. The answer, the choices, always lies within the
faith of Austinian and his Will, and a good life will accompany our
thoughtful, reverent choices.
May Austinian Guide your Hands,
Torey al Kian
Priestess of Austinian
A Beacon
Children of Austinian,
The influence of a single person made beautiful in the light of Austinian, a
hopeful and helpful character, is contagious and may revolutionize an entire
village. And so it is that uniting as the bright souls of Austinian, and
showing his light, we can revolutionize the entire world.
We have all in our lives met certain people who inspired laughter, hope, or
changes in us, or those close to us. We look forward to seeing them. We
leave their presance believing in ourselves, aware that we can tackle
whatever problems had us immobilized. That special gift to inspire is ours
for the taking, too. The inspiration comes from our Lord Austinian.
We can look to Austinian for the strength we need. It will come. We can
look also to Austinian for direction, for the steps we need to take today.
And then wait. Those persons who inspire us have developed a secure
connection to their God. And it's their connection that comes through them
to inspire us.
We can take some time today, before the demands of life overwhelm us, to
weave our connection to our higher power. When that contact is secure, we
won't have to await inspiration from another person to forge ahead with our
plans. The inspiration will live within us, and it will beckon us and
others onward. Our way will be illuminated in the infinate love of
Austinian.
Do not be afraid, Children of Austinian, to show the brightness of your
soul. Do not be afraid to be as a beacon to those living in the vast
shadows of this world. Our light grows stronger day by day, and already the
shadows recede. Reach out your hand to a soul who desires it.
For we were all born of Austinian, and to him we shall return.
May Austinian Guide your Hands,
Torey al Kian
Priestess of Austinian
Untitled Sermon on Austinian's Love
He who knows the part which the divine goodness in him plays, and knows also
that which the Mortal Nature in him plays, has reached the perfection of
knowledge. He who knows the part which the Heavenly Light plays, knows that
it is naturally born with him; he who knows the part which the Human ought
to play proceeds with the knowledge which he possesses to nourish it in the
direction of what he does not yet know. Such knowledge still awaits the
confirmation of it as correct; it does so because it is not yet determined
in mortal eyes. How do we know that what we call the Goodness in us is not
the Human.. And that what we call the Human is not the Heavenly?
There must be the True Being, and then there is the True knowledge.
Austinian is the bearer of this knowledge, and his children are the bearers
of his light.
Goodness. Kindness. Love to all. Unconditional... Unchanging
Death and life are ordained, just as we have the constant succession of
night and day; -- in both cases from Austinian. Men have no power to do
anything in reference to them-- such is the constitution of things. There
are those who specially regard Austinian as their father, and they love him,
distant though he may seem at times-- how much more should they love That
which stands out, and thus remain in their own eyes Superior and yet alone?
Some specially regard their ruler as superior to themselves, and will give
their bodies to die for him or her-- how much more should they do so for
That which is their true ruler? The answer is not to give more, to love
more, to elevate yourself above others in your praise to Austinian.
When springs dry up, the fishes collect together on the land... That they
should moisten one another there by the damp about them, and keep one
another wet by their slime. Is it better then for them to forget one
another in the rivers and lakes, and seek instead the last puddle? The
answer is neither. It would be better to forget them both, and seek the
renovation of our Lord Austinian.
Goodness. Kindness. Love to all. Unconditional... Unchanging
Here is the great Mass of nature, thought and existance-- I find the support
of my body on it; my life is spent in toil on it; my old age seeks ease on
it; at death I find rest in it. What makes my life good makes my death also
good.
This is the Way-- there is in the love of Austinian emotion and sincerity.
His knowledge may be handed down (by the teacher), but may or may not be
immediately received (by his scholars). It may be apprehended (by the
mind), but It cannot be seen. T has Its root and ground (of existence) in
Itself. Before there were heaven and earth, from of old, there It was, this
massive force, securely existing. From It came the mysterious existences of
life, from It the mysterious existence of our Lord Austinian. This Divine
Goodness produced the the heavens; It produced earth. It was before
mountains, and yet could not be considered high; It was below all space, and
yet could not be considered deep. It was produced before heaven and earth,
and yet could not be considered to have existed long; It was older than the
highest antiquity, and yet could not be considered old. To this we shall
return, and rest all our days with the father.
Goodness. Kindness. Love to all. Unconditional... Unchanging
Of the light we were born, and to the light we shall return. I charge you
all to remember this lesson throughout your upcoming days, and to act upon
what you have learned. Let the light of your knowledge be a beacon to
others. May the flame of your understanding spread like a blessed wildfire
of love through all of existance. Our Divine Father Austinian, bless you
all.
Humility in practice
I wish to convey some wisdom to the keep and I pray that it will be
received with open eyes and open minds.
We all have our own reasons for which we have joined together in brotherhood
to become noble champions and guardians of good. In our quest for
knighthood, we have, or will have, embraced the virtues of chivalry. It
often takes months if not years to find it within our hearts and many more
afterwards to keep it.
Of the virtues of chivalry, pride is the one that has been said to be at
fault for us mortals to act nobly. One can argue that pride strengthens
one's character; that it can help raise the standard and encourage one to
evolve. This I do not debate. I do wish to convey to you that pride is
indeed a double-edged sword. I have seen it benefit some members greatly in
their pursuits, and I have seen it impede others. We must be vigilant and
not allow our pride to develop into vanity or for us to become self-centered
because of it.
Some of you know that humility is quite an effective defense against
encroaching vanity and the like. What you may not know is how fragile
humility is. I recall a story I was told in my youth. There was once a
parishioner who received recognition for being the humblest man in the
church. He was given a special pin to wear. The following congregation he
wore it and they took it away from him for being proud. As soon as we think
we are humble, we are not.
Thus, I present the keep with suggestions on how to practice humility; to
keep pride in check while still reaping its benefits.
Routinely confess your sins to your god. We are mortal and all of us sin.
Too few of us have a routine practice of rigorous self-honesty examination.
Be it weekly or even daily, review your heart and behavior in conjunction
with your confession. The next step is to acknowledge your sin to others
for humility before the gods is not complete unless there is also humility
before man. A true test of our willingness to humble ourselves is being
willing to share with others the weaknesses we confess to our god. Wisdom
dictates that we should do so with others that we trust.
Take wrong patiently. Patiently responding to the unjust accusations and
actions of others demonstrates the strength of one's character and provides
an opportunity to put on humility.
Receive criticisms and feedback from others graciously. Look for the kernel
of truth in what people offer you, even if it comes from a dubious source.
Do not be unwilling to forgive. Forgiveness is possibly one of the greatest
acts of humility we can do. To forgive is to acknowledge a wrong that has
been done us and also to further release our right of repayment for the
wrong. Forgiveness is denial of self.
If you do choose to humble yourself, bear in mind it must be approached with
sincerity. Anything less would be an injustice to yourself and will only
promote the vanity you seek to vanquish.
Varner PferdRitter
Signs of excess pride
I wish to convey some wisdom to the keep and I pray that it will be
received with open eyes and open minds.
Earlier, I had put my quill to parchment to express my thoughts on how to
practice humility. There, I touched upon the subject of pride but failed to
provide some guidance on how to identify it and why it needs to be
identified.
Because pride can be very subtle in its manifestations, many do not know the
telltale signs of pride. Consider the following characteristics of hidden
pride and see if our lord reveals any indications of pride in your life. Be
brave. Ask those who know you well if they see any of these characteristics
in your life.
First there is insecurity. It is the root of many unhealthy and ungodly
behaviors. It provokes us to want the lavish praise and attention of others
too much. Much of pride is motivated out of one's unmet needs for self
worth. Sometimes a person will develop a pattern of needing others to
listen to them rather than first hearing others. Oftentimes, the person
does not feel loved unless people hear them out. In truth, this is often
just an expression of insecurity and pride.
Some have a hard time being wrong. This symptom of pride prevents one from
appropriately evaluating issues as well as themselves. A person who needs
to be right has an exalted investment in himself and thinks he knows better
than others. An extension of this addresses those who argue their point of
view, especially to those in authority over them. At the root of their
argument is a belief that they are right and the other is wrong AND that
their will should prevail. It is appropriate to advocate for a position but
not to do so in such a manner that you are more invested in your own opinion
than in arriving at a mutual understanding.
There is also the self-justifying emotion of anger. This means that the
nature of anger is to prompt us to justify our position and blame another
for the wrongdoing. Justification of self leads to denial of our own
wrongdoing. Anger can also be the root of impatience. When we are unable
to be patient with another and are irritated, it demonstrates a haughty view
of self. We feel that our views, time or needs are more important that the
other persons. This again is more an indication of our pride than someone
else's slow movement or imperfection.
Lastly, there is stubbornness. The root issue of stubbornness is
willfulness, which is "I want what I want when I want it". From this stems
the inability to honestly receive criticisms. One either blatantly ignores
criticisms or one who listens but does not change.
There it is; some general rules on how to identify pride in our day-to-day
life. These guidelines have a higher purpose that just to evaluate yourself
and your fellow brother. A wise man pointed out to me that until you freely
admit your errors you'll never grow. While this observation is a relatively
obvious one, it is amazing how many devices people use to keep from
admitting that they are wrong about much of anything.
There is no shame in being wrong. How can we get it right until we eagerly
seek to find someone to show us how, by pointing out the imperfection of
what we're doing now, and how to do it right? What fools we are until we
admit to this reality and begin to practice lifting the level of our play by
freely admitting that it needs to be lifted.
Varner PferdRitter
Faith will deliver us
Faith is one of the strongest virtues a knight has in his spiritual
armory. When infused with the soul, it frees and empowers the spirit. But
like most virtuous paths, it takes time and devotion to aquire, and at
times, it is difficult to keep.
We ride into battle daily in these darker times and the forces of evil seem
to plague the lands in staggering numbers. We must believe that our work,
our prayers, and our deeds are not in vain. The knights are advocates of
good and we must not forget that. Do not allow arrogant demands of our gods
or our keep enter your minds for we have made total commitments to them. It
is the seed of doubt the can sit and grow inside the spirit into a monster
and consume oneself from within. Should questions of doubt arise,
incorporate them into your prayers with a submissive attitude for they will
be heard.
There must be confidence given to the lord Austinian as well as trust. Be
patient and understand that good will triumph and displace evil. When the
world looks as if it will be over run by evil, rest assured that this will
not be so. As we try and walk the path of his will, stay focused with
prayer and good deeds. Do not allow the lies and deceit of evil sway you.
Be loyal and do not heed the calls of those who walk the other paths.
The seed of doubt, be it one that makes you question your god or Knighthood,
is a heavy burden to bear. A burden that a knight can not afford to carry.
Have faith in our Lord and our leaders. He will be our salvation and they
they will lead us to victory.
Varner PferdRitter
The Patience of Good
It was in frustration that I did call out in prayer to the Father of
Good, and beg His wisdom. It is now with a calm and refreshed mind that I
offer the wisdom He did impart unto me in answer. His words ride on hope
that I wish to pass to others.
To me that which was professed was to offer and possess patience.
While we mortals speak of good things coming to those who wait; instead it
is with time that we go to Good. Time will offer us experience, wisdom and
the knowledge to choose what is Good. Austinian waits patiently for all
souls to make this choice; therein hope for salvation exists even for the
darkest.
We must strive to embody this holy patience in our lives. Offer others
the time, wisdom and knowledge they will need to redeem themselves; as
Austinian offers us the chance to atone and make amends for our worldly sins.
Work tirelessly and joyfully in this blessed time given to us to steadily
guide others towards the path of Light so they have a chance to take joy in
His patience.
Be vigilant not to fall into the trap of abusing this gift of patience for
our own sloth or sin. Do not become lazy in your devotion or fall into bad
habits and poor behavior believing He will forgive and forget with ease.
Regaining lost ground on the Path of Light will be difficult; your time of
penance can last as long as His patience.
Know that the Father of Good waits patiently for us. Let us walk our
winding path to him with grace, and offer ourselves as guides to others on
the way.
Novitiate Krelzi Quan'ku, Priestess of the Austinians
Heresy and the Philosophies of the Shadow Knights
Greetings and Salutations, Noble High Clerist of Knighthood,
You will no doubt notice the propaganda that the Dark Lord Shay Kayen has
recently put forth for public viewing. You will also find if of great
interest that the text he chose to plagiarize for his propaganda was written
by the Heretic, Ta'plak. The text can be found in the second floor of the
library in Pan Toll. I thought you might find it as interesting as I do
that Shay leads his supposed knights of Necrucifer by using the words of a
heretic.
I pray that you and yours are well, may you walk in the Light,
- Novitiate Krelzi Quan'ku, Priestess of Austinian
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
History
First, the High God created the land. After doing so, the three eternal
were brought to the High God, and charged with caretaking of the land. Know
that none of them were good, evil, or neutral. They were beyond being
classified.
The High God then left our time and space, and the three eternal began
adding life to the word that they were given charge to. The sentient life
given to Algoron were Dragons. However, the dragons began bickering amongst
each other, fighting constantly, and destroying some of the land.
At this point, one of the Eternal Three, Austinian, decided that the dragons
ought to be controlled, to prevent the world from being destroyed.
Necrucifer, on the other hand, thought it right that the dragons work out
their differences for themselves. After all, even they would begin to see
the damage they were doing, and work things out for the better? Austinian
and Necrucifer were about to come to blows. Perhaps things would have been
different, if the last member of the Enternal Three, Kwainin, had stepped
in. But Kwainin decided to side with neither, as well as not interfere in
their fight. So Austinian and Necrucifer came to blows.
The two picked totally different strategies. Austinian wished to make short
work of Necrucifer, and kill him. Necrucifer however, did not wish to kill
this god who was almost a brother to him, so instead attempted to
incapacitate Austinian, and not kill him.
However, being very evenly matched, neither could do harm to another. So
Austinian hurled a piece of the sun into the face of Necrucifer. This did
not blind him however, but it made his eyes very sensitive to light. Then
Austinian plotted to take over the world, as Necrucifer could not see by the
light of day.
Necrucifer then went to the rivers and oceans, and said, 'Austinian wishes
to bind the land, and control the destinies of those upon it. This is my
blood, the first blood of the Gods to touch the earth. I do this so that
the inhabitants can one day rise up, and stand out against Austinian and his
followers. I do not wish the inhabitants of the land to be slaves of
Austinian, I wish them to be free, to make their own choices, and to do as
they wilt. ' With that, he cut himself, and poured some of his lifeblood
into the oceans and rivers.
Thus is the prophecy written. Necrucifer will one day return to Algoron and
slay Austinian and Kwainin, freeing us of the tyranny of the gods of light.
Under his rule, chaos and wars shall end, and we shall at last live in
peace.
Shay Kayen
Dark Knight of Necrucifer
Founder and Dark Lord of Shadow
Ambactus a Caligo
Extinguishing the Sun
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
The Philosophies of a Heretic
In the recent missive regarding Shadow's Propaganda
and Prophesy the source used for the "History" was not
cited. The "History" was written by Ta'plak the
Heretic, and is shelved on the second story of the
library of Pan-Toll. Be wary of the words of the
Heretic: these are not words inspired by the divine.
To those who unknowingly turn from the Gods to follow
this path to ruin: take back these false words of
heresy, and seek Austinian's embrace before it is too
late. He is merciful and your foolishness and slander
against the Gods can yet be forgiven in His Love.
He does not blind; He sheds light to see by.
Walk in the Light,
- Novitiate Krelzi Quan'ku of Austinian
Austinian will Forgive
Take heart all those who have sinned. Take heart all those who have
wronged. Take heart all those who toil lost and confused: The Father of
Good has made it known that joy and hope may be grasped by all, meek and
mighty, in this world. Austinian is compassionate and forgiving. He knows
the mistakes we mortals have made, and offers all the comfort and love of
the Light to replace our sorrow. He is the consort of unending Love and
Happiness and will gladly accept your prayers of and for forgiveness.
What wrongs you may have committed will be forgiven and lifted so that you
may learn and grow in the Light of His embrace.
As Austinian is forgiving, so we mortals must learn from His divine example.
To learn to forgive those that have wronged you is to set yourself free of
worldly greed and concern. Release those who are in debt to you, and offer
them compassion and understanding. Forgive those who have wronged you, and
offer them patience and love. With these actions you will be repaid many
times over; all wrongs will be undone by the love and light you will find
yourself surrounded by.
Know that the Father of Good waits patiently for you to seek His love. Do
not hide in fear or shame of your sins; stand before Austinian and confess
your fears and sins, open your heart and release the pain you carry. Seek
His love and forgiveness, and He will forgive and fill you with His strength,
love, and wisdom; keeping you beside Him on the Path of Light forever.
Walk in the Light,
- Novitiate Krelzi Quan'ku of the Order of Austinians
The Blessed Meek
Blessed are the poor and meek. Austinian loves them not less. Their
prayers of thanksgiving may reach the heavens neither weighted or hindered
by earthly possessions. All souls and prayers weigh the same, and those
laden in jewels or cast in gold will not reach Him faster. The prayers of
true love and thankfulness for the simple things in life are precious to the
Father of Good.
We who have plenty are to seek out the poor, ill, and meek, to protect and
aid them with our bounty. In sharing our richness with them, they will
share their simple love and purity with us. They will lighten our heavy
prayers and teach us to be thankful for life's simple joys. Together then
we may serve Austinian with strength and love.
Walk in the Light,
- Novitiate Krelzi Quan'ku of Austinian
The Love of Austinian
Rejoice all those who despair. Rejoice all those in gloom. Rejoice all
those who toil lost and alone: The Father of Good has love eternal and all
encompassing so that none need walk this world alone and unloved. Austinian
is the husband of Love and Happiness. He rejoices to see Her glory echoed
in His children and servants as they bask in His Light. Your joy is His, and
His is yours; all you need do is reach for His hand and he will embrace you.
This divine love of Austinian; the good and joy in our lives is a
nourishment that we all need to feel complete. Without this warm joy
despair, gloom, and loneliness will gnaw at our souls, and fill all around
you with fear and unease.
As Austinian is loving, so we mortals must learn from His divine example.
Open your heart to your fellow mortals and watch over and love them. See
that they do not despair, hurt, mope in gloom, or feel lost and alone. Love
them for what they are: friend, child, parent, mate, or stranger. Offer
them a pure and honest love and care for their well being. In sharing your
joy and lifting their pain you share the joy of Austinian and fill all the
lives you touch with His glory.
This true and innocent love is a powerful gift, one that is intended to be
shared; as you give, remember not to be blind when it is offered to you. To
shun such a gift is to shun the Father Himself. Be open and honest in your
heart to the loves offered to you. Do not hide in bitterness or despair,
look to the gentle and simple loves offered around you and embrace them
joyfully. Accept overtures of kindness, friendship, and comfort, for in
allowing others to share themselves with you; you may share the Father's
love of life with them. In accepting the love of others, you prepare
yourself to accept the ultimate divine love in the heart of Austinian.
Know that the Father waits patiently for you to seek His love. In sharing
goodness with others; kind deeds and honest care, we share not only
ourselves; joys and dreams, but we also share Austinian's will. Offer it
and open yourself to it, and He will wash away all gloom, despair, and
loneliness; keeping you beside Him on the Path of Light forever.
Walk in the Light,
Deacon Krelzi Quan'ku, Priestess of Austinian
The Will of the Father on Battle in Church and Lands
Greetings Diligent Phridation,
Austinian, the Father of Good, does indeed condone evil within the Church,
for He hopes we may turn it. He also loves those of us who already walk in
the Light, and rejoices in our lives; thus He does not care to see the blood
of His children spilt on the steps. While He waits joyfully for the day
when no blood may be spilt, and all walk towards Him on the path of Good,
until that day He asks His loved followers, you and I, to defend ourselves
and our loved ones.
Part of what makes evil cruel and a plague hiding in darkness is its
anti-social and meaningless violence out of rage, fear, and jealousy. To
walk into the Church of Austinian and commit an act with these things
flowing through your mind and heart, is to act as an agent of evil yourself.
Remember this when you go to battle, be it bring you to the fields, waters,
streets, forests, or churches holy or unholy:
The Father of Good is kind, loving, merciful, patient, and forgiving. It is
for these things you battle, and these things we seek to embody in our
lives. To know and love what the Father loves, and live and act as the
Father does, we will bring ourselves closer to Him. In this embrace, we
will do the most good to spread His Will.
If you have further questions as to the Will and teachings of the Father of
Good feel free to contact me. I am here to aid and enlighten you on your
path to the Father.
Walk in the Light,
Deacon Krelzi Quan'ku of Austinian
Keeping Faith in times of Trouble
As we live our lives we will come upon times of hardship. Be they
accidentally self-inflicted or seemingly random acts of nature; these
hardships are not senseless or meaningless. Times of trials and
difficulties have great importance in our lives. They become our moments of
greatest strength and bravery. To stay on the path of Goodness, when it
seems forces at all sides wish to pull you away from your goal, is a test of
one's very soul. To learn to temper yourself with Faith in the Father of
Good is to learn to forge in yourself the armor and tools you will need to
vanquish your troubles and reach your goals.
Take heart those of you who feel life's hardships heavy on your chest and
mind. When toils and troubles fill the air you breath, see that it does not
poison the lungs. Be vigilant of yourself in times of hardship that you do
not exhale your frustrations and fears with tainted and harsh words and
actions which have not been filtered out by Faith. In believing in the
Father; His Will and Way, in walking His path bravely, although the sides
lined with poison, fear, temptation, revenge, and false promises of power,
Goodness will triumph, and you shall meet your goals.
Do not falter or fear, Children of Good, even in the face of terrible odds.
Stay your course to Austinian and He will guide you to safety.
-+=*=+-
Thank You, Father of Good, for Your many blessings in the world. May
Your wisdom grow to touch all in need of kindness, forgiveness, and gentle
love. May forgiveness and generosity be remembered, may all know the
benevolent spirit that which resides within. Let the goodwill and joy that
surrounds Your servants fill them with the fortitude they will need in the
trials of life. May learning come from sorrows, and inner peace and wisdom
from learning to find our way on the path to You. Guide our hands, that we
may spread Your Glory to all; so all may know the benevolent spirit inside
them, and grow blessed by Your side.
-+=*=+-
Walk in the Light,
Deacon Krelzi Quan'ku of Austinian
The Tale of Nadrik and Austinian
One day, a long age ago, the mighty Nadrik strode the realm doing battle to
fell beasts and demons. Long did he do battle with such. And in the end,
when all were vanquished, he made his way home. He travelled slowly, for he
was weary from his many battles.
On his way, Nadrik came to a vast lake. Swamps lay to each side and he saw
no way to cross. Then, he spied a small rowboat carrying an old man close
to the shore. So Nadrik called to the old man to ferry him across the lake.
The old man retorted 'Who are you that I should ferry you across this vast
lake?'
And Nadrik replied 'I am Nadrik. Son of Austinian. I have done battle for
many a day with the great evils of the world and now I am weary and must
cross this lake. Lend me your aid old man'
To which, the old man replied 'Done battle with the great evils? That is
nothing. I've set king against king, seen the destruction of mountains,
caused the downfall of kingdoms. You have done nothing'
Try as he might, Nadrik could not convince the old man to ferry him across
the lake. And so, he had to walk through the swamps. When he returned
home, he was very weary. And very angry. But! On return it was revealed
to him that the old man was none other than his father, Austinian.
For Austinian wished to teach his son a valuable lesson: There will come
times in ones life, when one cannot count on any other for aid. And in such
times, one must have the fortitude to help oneself. Lucent says (to
Azathoth) This is the lesson that Austinian taught his son. And it is one
which all should learn.
The Lesson of Courtesy
(Transcribed from a scroll delivered to Frazen Bruce from a messenger of
Nadrik upon the Day of Deception, 16th Month of the Sun.) The First Lesson
to be learned is the Lesson of Courtesy. To a follower of Nadrik, courtesy
involves more than merely following rules of ettiquette. It is also an
attitude, a way of presenting oneself to the world. A follower of Nadrik
carries himself proudly, maintains self-control, and accepts ill-mannered
behavior with grace. He follows social customs to the best of his ability.
He is polite and deferential to friends and strangers alike.
The Follower of Nadrik Must:
Consider the feelings of others and take care not to offend them. A
follower of Nadrik always demonstrates proper manners. Speak tactfully and
kindly. A follower of Nadrik never knowingly insults or slanders another
person, even his greatest enemy. If others engage in insults or slander,
the follower of Nadrik walks away.
Behave with dignity. A follower of Nadrik refrains from emotional
outbursts, excessive language, or other boorish acts.
Know now that these are as the Lord of Honor has intended, honor is not
something to be worn with convenience, it something that is meant as a way
of dealing with the self and with others. The path of honor is rigid but in
doing so one ensures his or her place in the light. One should bare no
thought that puts himself ahead of others. Should this lesson go unheeded
thy path differs from the Lord of Honor, consider it well.
The First Psalm of Austinian
This is the First Psalm of Austinian that I wrote for the Book of
Austinian. I hope that you enjoy it Priestess of the Father.
***************************************************************************-
Blessed is the man that walked not in the counsel of the ungodly, nor
standeth in the way of sinners, nor sitteth in the seat of the scornful.
But his delight is in the law of Austinian, and in his law doth he meditate
day and night.
And he shall be like a tree planed by the rivers of water that bringeth
forth its fruit in its season. It's leaf also shall not wither, and
whatsoever he doeth shall prosper.
The ungodly are not so, but are like the chaff which the wind driveth away.
Therefore the ungodly shall not stand in the judgment, nor sinners in the
congregation of the righteous.
For Austinian knoweth the way of the righteous, but the way of the ungodly
shall perish.
***************************************************************************-
As commanded to be written by the Father Austinian upon being named his
Champion. Austinian grant the wisdom to know the right, the will to choose
it, and the strength to make it endure. Amen.
Leumas Circe, Champion of Austinian
The Bard of Austinians' Love Song
Come, sing the songs and dance along; it won't take long,
With my music; sweet music.
Come, and skip along and right the wrong; it won't take long,
With my music; sweet music.
Come and give your heart up to glee,
and may my music ever follow thee.
For even the darkest gods will bow and dance along,
to the Bard of Austinians' merry love song.
- Lioness Tygereye
Hymn to Austinian
We limit not the truth of life to those who know his might,
By notions of our faith and sect -- each soul born of his light.
So, let a new and better hope within our hearts be stirred,
Austinian hath yet more light and truth to give his word.
Who dares to bind to one's own sense the grace of good arisen?
For all the kingdoms, tongues, and climes and all the ages given?
That universe, how much unknown! that ocean unexplored,
Austinian hath yet more light and truth to share his word.
Eternal Goodness, Mighty beacon, guidance from above,
enlarge, expand all living hearts to comprehend your love;
and help us all to seek your will with wiser powers conferred.
Austinian, grant yet more light and truth to show your word.
Hymn of Thanks
Father of Good, and Husband of Joy,
To You praises and thanks we sing,
Thanks for all in Light, old maid and boy,
Your heart is with them as the bells ring.
Hark, King of Compassion, we sing to You,
Thanks for the joy Your wisdom brings,
Knowledge that Your unending love is true,
As You stand beside us in all things.
Thanks to the infinate Light none shall erase,
May it guide us home to Your holy place.
A Prayer to Austinian
Father Austinian, as our hearts are raised to you
in love and thanksgiving through the light, grace
and blessings of our community here today... your
direct creations, showing forth and sharing with
us your divine goodness, beauty and truth- We
commune with you in awe and rapture and pray that
we and all of our brothers and sisters born of your
glorious light may be opened to the fullness of the
Divine Love of our lord and of our companionship,
through which we are able to transform the fallen
world into the culminating kind and peaceable
Kingdom of Divine Goodness, that all may be lifted
up from the darkness and shown your Glory.
Hymn to the Lord of Light
In a storm you are our guide
In peace we find you
In success or failure you are here for us
In darkness you bring us Light
In mystery you are our truth
Lord of Light, hear our prayers
Bless us your servants
Lend us your strength
May we share your love with others, always
Hymn II
May we learn from war and hate
Happily give and receive
Grow from learning anew
In teaching know tolerance
May we live in peace
Find faith in what we seek
In our prayers have hope
And prosper in the love we share
For all these things
We thank the Gods
Guide us in our way
Teach us in your names
Fill us with your Light.
Letter Regarding the Church of Austinian
To: Mithrax
Dear Friend,
I have given some thought to your inquiries as to what the Church's goals
should be, in addition to the 'preach good' and 'praise Austinian'
activities. I am unsure if I will completely answer your question here, but
I shall endeavor to do so.
The Church of Austinian will hopefully provide a central focus to reach out
to all followers of Good in the lands, and show those who do not follow the
ways of Good what it is we are about. While I unquestionably serve the
Light in the Order of Austinians, those outside the Order must be shown how
it is they may spread Good in their own way.
Education in Good moral character, and how to have one's actions outside of
church bring honor to Austinian comes to mind. Many times I see people go
to church, offer praise and thanks diligently, then forget the sermon, and
give little thought of how actions may offer praise and thanks until next
week when they come to confess sins committed and beg for forgiveness. The
Church should actively see that it is providing an example of Austinian's
Goodness to the lands by aiding the weak, needy, and ill. It should also be
ready to support those who serve it well, and open and willing to teach new
members how to serve in it.
Priests within the Church should make sure they are attempting to be a part
of the daily lives of those who worship Austinian. Being on hand for
weddings, funerals, and other important occasions would be a must. They
must also see that regular worship schedule is met, or educational
gatherings to discuss matters holy and good with parishioners. While we are
the Church of Austinian, and devoted to the Father of Good, He is indeed
that, the Father of Good and loving of all His children and grandchildren,
thus I would like to see that worship and other services are kept welcoming
to all those good of heart, as well as the services to the ill or needy.
I am unsure if I truly answered your questions well in my rambling manner,
but these are the concerns that have come into my mind. I beg patience and
forgiveness if this is not what you are looking for as answers; I fear I am
only a Novitiate and new student of such things myself. I thank you for
your time and wisdom on these matters.
Walk in the Light,
- Novitiate Krelzi Quan'ku of Austinian
Liturgy Outline
Call to worship. (A simple phrase or a few sentences allowing people to
focus upon the worship of the time)
A hymn. (to let people's voices praise)
A treatise or exposition on the nature of the Gods. (to teach and to guide)
(note: this isn't a question and answer session)
The offering (can be a collected donation for the work of the Church,
offering by certain individuals, by an individual, etc)
Prayers (can be clergy led, or offerings from all assembled)
Hymn (should be of thanks for allowing to worship and to take with as they
leave)
Dismissal (to end the service in a way that allows people to thank theGods
for worship and for prayers recieved)
This is a rough outline but should show how a service should proceed.
Change as needed.
The History of the Order of Austinians: Volume 1
Since the Fall from Grace mortals have debated, banded together, and
warred over how best to serve the Gods. The following text attempt to form
a picture of the history of the Order of Austinians.
In the time after the Fall from Grace elves, dwarves, and humans split apart
into separate clans, towns, and kingdoms each blaming the other for the
Fall. These schisms were the cause of many battles and wars. Some priests
of Good believed the intolerance and war would further drive mortals from
the Gods. They took to traveling from village to village easing the pains
of the victims of war and preaching the way of Good.
These friars were mostly humans, but soon won converts from some of the more
peaceful and open-minded dwarves and elves. The group grew and solidified,
finally building a temple outside the major kingdoms of Shalonesti and
Serpantol, choosing to separate themselves from the wars and racism endorsed
by the various militaries.
Slowly, as the secrets of magic leaked out of the Conclave, people sought to
put magic to good use. In this time elven mages and white robes seeking a
more peaceful life joined the priests on their travels. While reverent to
the Gods of Good, the Mages of the Austinians felt their art would prove
more practical in assisting others and performing good deeds.
After the Ogre Wars, while the yinn slowly drove down from the north, travel
grew increasingly dangerous for the healers. During this time Warger closed
its doors, and strife and arguments filled the ranks of the human
Knighthood. Hill dwarven and a few minotuar crusaders were converted and
recruited along with disenchanted human knights to act as defenders of the
Order. These holy warriors traveled with the clerics and mages on their
journeys ensuring their safety on the dangerous road.
The History of the Order of Austinians: Volume 2
In the dangerous years that followed the small Order did its best to heal
and convert others in the war torn lands. The yinn finally saw the Orders
Temple of Good overrun and destroyed. Shattered and splintered, the elves
returned to the forests, dwarves to the mountains. Many of the defenders
either joined with the Knighthood against the yinn, or were involved with
the splinter group, Valor.
After the yinn were finally driven back, the order of independent priests
and good doers existed only in memory and records, especially in the memory
of the long-lived elves. Inspired by the tales of these selfless priests of
old, a shalonesti-elven mage of Austinian, Belegar, chose to emulate and
attempt to bring back this lifestyle.
Orphaned in the war and raised by a human and a half-elf, Belegar felt few
ties to the warring clans and kingdoms. Freely he wandered the lands
performing good acts, enlisting the help of other good priests, and winning
converts. Human priests and mages soon joined him, but he also reached out
to the other races, encouraging them to help others as they could. Kender,
dwarves, minotuar, and even most astonishingly, yinnish converts soon joined
him on his mission.
With a small, but suitable and talented following, Belegar had a Church to
Austinian constructed along the road between New Thalos and Althainia.
Wishing to show mercy and goodness to all, he bid that all be welcome there.
This church became the center of the reborn order's operations.
Pleased with the work of His mage, Austinian did visit the church Himself
and bless Belegar for his good deeds and generous heart. The church stands
today and the Order of Austinians continues to show mercy and goodness to
all regardless of race, alignment, or affiliation.
On the Subject of those who follow the Darkness
Llwellyn, and others:
I admit that when I first joined the Order, I too had a great difficulty
with granting aid to those who followed the darker paths. It seemed a waste
of my time, and a waste of the Church's power.
However, recent events lead me to conclude that it is something that must be
done, almost as a way of witnessing to 'evil' ones. I have seen many
converted in the Church, after being helped time and again by our various
healers. By aiding them, even though it seems wrong, we leave them with the
impression of goodness. If we refuse them, it only gives the Dark Ones
fodder for their 'good is truly evil' argument.
I truly believe that by helping them, they are forced to realise that there
is something wonderful about the path of Good. After all, their seeking us
must mean that no help is provided for them in their homes. By giving them
a home, of sorts, we start to chip away at the propaganda they are fed in
their respective cities, or clans.
Nicole, resident Enchantress
On the Uncomfort of Vampires in the Church
Dear Friends,
As established in our charter, we help all those in need. We are above
petty exceptions, we bring divine forgiveness and Light into the world. In
living the way of Light, we show the Light to all, and thus they may at once
know the true meaning of Goodness, Compassion, and Love. Thus, all have
been welcomed into the Church of Austinian, and its sister Mission.
Some come to commit violent acts. At least that is why they think they
come. This, however, is not the truth of it. The truth of it is that those
who come thinking to commit terrorism are actually sent here because they
are in the greatest need of aid. Darkness has so twisted their soul, they
can only be possibly saved by the healing and understanding our Order alone
provides in all the world. We alone stand as a ray of hope and Light in a
world that would otherwise rather condemn and destroy.
Vampireism is a disease. A disease that left unchecked affects mind, body
and soul. We must provide the check that stops it from destroying its host.
There are those that live with this foul disease, and do not commit acts of
evil. They have learned to curb the ill affects of this disease, and lead
somewhat normal lives. It is our duty to see that others learn this
strength of will through the Light. It is our duty to find a cure that does
not involve the stake. It is not our duty to pass judgment on a sickly
soul... That is the duty of the Gods.
Walk in the Light,
- Novitiate Krelzi Quan'ku, of Austinian
The Second Book of the Teachings of Good
+ Contents +
3. Truth, by Torey al Kian
4. A letter on Malachive, by Harthax M'arnix
5. Rite of Marriage, by Torey al Kian
7. Regarding the Great Balance, by Torey al Kian
8. The embodiment of Good, by Torey al Kian
9. Hymn to the Lord of Good, by Torey al Kian
10. Kindness to our Brother, the Stranger, by Krelzi Quan'ku
11. A sermon on Strength, by Torey al Kian
12. On the Burning of the Library, by Torey al Kian
13. Hymn of Goodness' Strength, by Krelzi Quan'ku
14. Your Inner Light, by Torey al Kian
15. A Sermon on Oblation, by Debeo S.
16. A Sermon on Forgiveness, by Torey al Kian
18. A Sermon on Dedication, by Debeo S.
19. A Sermon on Proper Usage, by Debeo S.
20. Hymn to Austinian II, by Torey al Kian
21. Rapt Attention, by Torey al Kian
22. On the Defenders of the Austinians, by Paynifier Ahalin
23. Living a Priestly Lifestyle, by Krelzi Quan'ku
25. To Teach Goodness, by Krelzi Quan'ku
26. An Apology, and Clarification, by Torey al Kian
27. To be an Advocate, by Krelzi Quan'ku
28. On the Celebration of Confession, by Krelzi Quan'ku
30. Psalm: To Spread Austinian's Gift, by Krelzi Quan'ku
31. Living for Austinian, by Torey al Kian
32. Together as a Family, by Krelzi Quan'ku
33. Peace, by Torey al Kian
34. To Cultivate Goodness, by Krelzi Quan'ku
35. Prayer for Austinian's Faithful, by Torey al Kian
36. Patience and Austinian's Good Work, by Krelzi Quan'ku
37. Sermon for Responsible Spiritual Leadership, by Torey al Kian
38. A Call for Goodly Deeds, by Krelzi Quan'ku
Truth
When I was a little girl, it was easy to believe in the inherant good
that exists within all things- quite simply, the idea was never challenged.
I had a happy childhood, devoid of tragedy, surrounded by a family that
loved me. As I grew older, from time to time certain events challeneged
this ideal, and indeed as I speak to you now I shall say that these were
times that tried my faith.
If one were to look around them, in this modern age, it is apparant that the
forces of evil run rampant across the lands. Like a weed that has been left
untended, it has multiplied and spread its constricting root, leaf and vine,
to choke out the sanity and orderliness of the garden that existed before
it.
How have we managed to leave the garden untended? Who is there to cultivate
our spirits? Where is the Father of Goodness in these times?
Answered simply, he exists within all things- we were born of the light,
though most have cast their eyes away. I state this as a universal truth.
To say that we can know something true does not mean that we must know
exhaustively what is true. Such knowledge is subject to refinement, but if
it is true knowledge, there must be a grain of truth in one's unrefined
conception. Some aspect of that conception has to remain as it was in the
beginning, or it can not be knowledge.
The weed was given life, the light of goodness. That it multiplies,
consuming other life in its path, points to yet another truth... That one
may choose the course of their own existance, and that darkness breeds only
ultimate desctruction, given time.
Some will say that life does not matter, that we are merely servants of the
gods- a plaything made for amusement, or a pawn in their divine games of
war. These same individuals actively seek our destruction, often hiding
this motive under a veil of deception in the form of momentary pleasure, and
wild untruths.
I WILL NOT BELIEVE SUCH LIES!
We are not the playthings of the gods, our kinds were created in an act of
love and respect- that we might thrive and bring pleasure to our creator
through noble actions and our pursuit of knowledge. The Lord of Light is a
kindly father with pride in his children... Even those who have temporarily
forgotten him. But his light is as a beacon! He calls you home...
Children of Austinian, those who deny him and those who accept him into your
lives, let your hands be the hands of the father. Let your light be a
beacon to others.
Do not let the darkness cultivate!
Children of light, we conquer with love- we absorb, but we do not constrict.
We root out evil by finding the seed of Austinian within its depths, and
nourish it to grow.
Ours is a gentle conquest. Ours is perhaps the most misunderstood power,
often unseen... But a conquering, powerful, dominant and wonderful force.
It is the knowledge of individuality, personal strength and free will.
Goodness is inherant within all, and it shall ALWAYS rise above darkness.
Where do we find this truth?
You exist... And have free choice. You are not a pawn.
Torey al Kian
Priestess of Austinian
A letter on Malachive
For those of you who have not been present in recent months, this mortal
is the son of Necrucifer. I am sure of all of you will remember your vows
and not confront him directly in combat. He cannot attack us and we must
use this to our advantage.
He might be the son of a God, and have great powers, yet he is still a young
man, with great power suddenly thrust upon him. He wields great forces with
ease, yet with little finesse, he has little control over it. He is still
very dangerous and is often accompanied by the demon Ethigrax.
I am sure his ears are constantly filled with the voices of his father and
His priests, yet I am convinced that if we approach him and reason with him,
perhaps we can convince him, that might does -not- make right, nor does the
ends justify the means. If we can show ourselves as we truly are,
respectful of all people, and show him the joy of aiding another being in
need. We may be able to prevent a terrible war.
If you approach him, approach him thus, though be wary of his demon, I
believe it may be the same one who injured Elder Torey and Aubrianna. We
are not completely free from threat, but we are bound by our Oath to aid in
this matter. If you can think of other ways we can deal with the stuation,
please propose them.
Elder Harthax M'arnix, Leader of the Austinians, Healer of Siccara.
Rite of Marriage
[PRIEST] We have come together here in celebration of the joining
together of _____bride_____ and _____groom_____. There are many things to
say about marriage. Much wisdom concerning the joining together of two
souls, has come our way through all paths of belief, and from many cultures.
With each union, more knowledge is gained and more wisdom gathered. Though
we are unable to give all this knowledge to these two, who stand before us,
we can hope to leave with them the knowledge of love and its strengths and
the anticipation of the wisdom that comes with time. The law of life is
love unto all beings. Without love, life is nothing, without love, death
has no redemption. Love is anterior to Life, posterior to Death, initial of
Creation and the exponent of Earth. If we learn no more in life, let it be
this. Praise Austinian.
Marriage is a bond to be entered into only after considerable thought and
reflection. As with any aspect of life, it has its cycles, its ups and its
downs, its trials and its triumphs. With full understanding of this, Groom
and Bride have come here today to be joined as one in marriage.
Others would ask, at this time, who gives the bride in marriage, but, as a
woman is not property to be bought and sold, given and taken, I ask simply
if she comes of her own will and if she has her family's blessing.
Bride, is it true that you come of your own free will and accord?
[BRIDE] Yes, it is true.
[PRIEST] With whom do you come and whose blessings accompany you.
[FATHER] She comes with me, her father, and is accompanied by all of her
family's blessings.
[PRIEST] Please join hands with your betrothed and listen to that which I am
about to say.
Above you are the stars, below you are the stones, as time doth pass,
remember...
Like a stone should your love be firm like a star should your love be
constant. Let the powers of the mind and of the intellect guide you in your
marriage, let the strength of your wills bind you together, let the power of
love and desire make you happy, and the strength of your dedication make you
inseparable. Be close, but not too close. Possess one another, yet be
understanding. Have patience with one another, for storms will come, but
they will pass quickly.
Be free in giving affection and warmth. Have no fear and let not the ways
of the unenlightened give you unease, for Austinian is with you always.
Groom, I have not the right to bind thee to Bride, only you have this right.
If it be your wish, say so at this time and place your ring in her hand.
[GROOM] It is my wish.
[PRIEST] Bride, if it be your wish for Groom to be bound to you, place the
ring on his finger. (places ring on Groom's left ring finger)
Bride I have not the right to bind thee to Groom only you have this right.
If it be your wish, say so at this time and place your ring in his hand.
[BRIDE] It is my wish.
[PRIEST] Groom, if it be your wish for Bride to be bound to you, place the
ring on her finger. (places ring on Bride's left ring finger)
(to Groom) Repeat after me:
I, (grooms full name), in the name of the spirit of Austinian that resides
within us all, by the life that courses within my blood and the love that
resides within my heart, take thee (bride's full name) to my hand, my heart,
and my spirit, to be my chosen one. To desire thee and be desired by thee,
to possess thee, and be possessed by thee, without sin or shame, for naught
can exist in the purity of my love for thee. I promise to love thee wholly
and completely without restraint, in sickness and in health, in plenty and
in poverty, in life and beyond, where we shall meet, remember, and love
again. I shall not seek to change thee in any way. I shall respect thee,
thy beliefs, thy people, and thy ways as I respect myself.
(to Bride) I (bride's full name), in the name of the spirit of Austinian
that resides within us all, by the life that courses within my
Blood, and the love that resides within my heart, take thee, (Groom's
full name) to my hand, my heart, and my spirit to be my chosen one. To
desire and be desired by thee, to possess thee, and be possessed by thee,
without sin or shame, for naught can exist in the purity of my love for
thee. I promise to love thee wholly and completely without restraint, in
sickness and in health, in plenty and in poverty, in life and beyond, where
we shall meet, remember, and love again. I shall not seek to change thee in
any way. I shall respect thee, thy beliefs, thy people, and thy ways as I
respect myself.
[PRIEST] (hands chalice to the groom, saying): May you
drink your fill from the cup of love. We now bow our heads in prayer to the
Good Father.
PRAYER:
Almighty Austinian, bless the sanctity of their union, make their cup to
runneth over, and fill them with your love.
Father, grant them health and fertility, honor and trust, grant them wealth
and virility, honesty and companionship. Father, bless this union- let them
love each other so long as they shall live, let them share with each other
all they have to give, let them be together in this life, and the next life
within your arms. Almighty Austinian, make your place in their home, and in
their hearts, and the hearts of their children. As you will it, so shall it
be done.
[PRIEST] In the name of Almighty Austinian, I now pronounce you husband and
wife. You may kiss the bride.
Regarding the Great Balance
To: Serym All
You are correct. I seek no balance in this world. If the light of the
father were to shine brightly within each and every soul in existance upon
this world, and each soul were to acknowledge and act upon this light, I
would be completely content.
You claim that without evil, good becomes stagnant... But this is not so.
Good continually renews itself, giving life upon life. Breath upon breath,
stiring and changing and constantly growing. It is evil that becomes
stagnant without good... All it creates is ash, cinder and endless dust.
It may spread like a disease consuming everything in its path, but it can
not create or grow. Which is just as well, for it shall one day be
abolished. One day the cancer shall eat itself out, and like a renewing
rain, the light of Austinian shall fall down upon the lands and stir the ash
and cinder. A gentle seed will be planted, and once the love of Austinian
is known to each soul, there will be no need for talk of balance... There
will just be. And we will be better for it.
You speak of the balance in a means to try and gain the acceptance of its
followers. But most of them do not respect any sort of balance, they are
mostly those who sit upon a fence. And when the love of Austinian is known
to all, they will accept it and gladly. I have no fear of this.
May Austinian Guide your Hands.
Torey al Kian
Priestess of Austinian
Elder, Church of Austinian
The embodiment of Good
To: all venrik azhiraz
Dear ones,
It is true. Without evil, good can not exist. But it is not this
mortal-defined state which I follow. I worship the embodiment of good, that
is the father Austinian.
Without evil on this world, Good need no longer be defined as such. It has
instead become something else entirely...
Perfection.
Torey al Kian
Priestess of Austinian
Elder, Church of Austinian
Hymn to the Lord of Good
The Lord of Good is greater far
than tongue or pen can ever tell
It goes beyond the highest star
and reaches to the lowest hell
He guides us all to live with care
to gift our hand to on another
a family, we praise and share
with He our father, all our brother
When years of time shall pass away
and worldly kingdoms fall
existing still shall be his will
and seeds of grace within us all
His light so sure shall still endure
measureless and strong
redeeming grace to every race
the right for every wrong
Could we with ink the ocean fill
and were the skies of parchment made
were every weed on earth a quill
and every man a scribe by trade
To write the grace of Austinian
wrould drain the ocean dry!
Nor could this scroll contain the whole
Though stretched from sky to sky!
Kindness to our Brother, the Stranger
Rejoice, children of Good, at those within your life, for they are your
brothers and sisters in this world. From the city guard who protects your
home, the mighty mage who enchants your armors, to the humble carpenter who
fixes you table so that it does not wobble. All these acquaintances, brief
and estranged, fill our daily lives and help us with the tools to keep us on
the path of Goodness. While we meet them not often, and perhaps only once,
they are as the fireflies: brief, joyful light in a dark night.
These strangers and brief meetings in our lives; unusual, new, and sometimes
fearful, each have a light of Goodness, the spark of Austinians's wisdom,
with them. No matter their shape or demeanor, they are a brother or sister,
and have something of Goodness in them to share with our lives. As they are
a member of our family, for Austinian loves all His children on this world,
we should seek them out when they fear, when they have joy, and share with
them our own light. To nurture the spark of Austinian within them, so that
it might grow and become a flame in the hearth of eternal warmth and love.
Be compassionate with your fellows on this world be they great or humble.
For together we walk this world, and our treatment of others affects their
understanding of us and our Father. The stranger sees you as you see them:
estranged and different. Do not abandon them, rather, reach out with the
spark of Austinian within you. See that the firefly knows the feeling to
have one brief, joyful light blink back to them in the dark night. They
will then see you as you see them: a brother or sister, a guiding light on
the Path to our loving Father's home, hearth and heart.
- Krelzi Quan'ku, Deacon of the Church of Austinian
A sermon on Strength
"Fear not the demon. Fear not his talons... He cannot take from thee what
is thine. Nor in the end will he undo my love for all my children. There
shall my children lie prostrate on the ground, and bent and broken they
shall be reborn in me. There shall the purity of my children's voices ease
thy brow. There shall my children rise up as one to protect each other."
These are the words of Austinian, spoken to me. Austinian did bid me go
forth and spread this message of strength... Sealing it with a miracle. '
Torey made the sign of Austinian and continued, 'You see, but a few days ago
I could not stand. My bones were weak and brittle, the result of an
encounter with the demon Ethigrax. What several priests could not undo, the
strength of our father Austinian healed in the simplicity of one breath.
And now I stand before you once again, strong in Austinian. And this is the
power of our Lord...
"Speak of the purest silk, which is as I see mine own." This is what the
father bid unto me. A strange metaphor, but surely a fitting one.
Let us take a minute to envision silk... The garments of kings, we might
speak of the beauty of the fabric, its shine and luster. We might speak of
its softness, or even of its high value among the merchants... And it is
true, we are all rich in Austinian. The children of our Lord do shine...
But I do not believe it is such surface things of which the father was
speaking of. Let us take a moment to consider silk... It is composed of
millions of tiny shining threads that have been woven together with a common
purpose...
Together,
these threads become one of the most resiliant fabrics in existance. To
tear silk is a matter that is nearly impossible... The threads stretch and
do not give... When cut, one will notice that silk is one of the only
fabrics that does not fray... The threads divide, but still remain
together...
The strength of silk, children of Austinian. Purpose together. Clinging
to one another in the grace of Austinian. This is how his children shall
be...
Strength.
Unending strength... This is our Lord. And this is the feat he has gifted
us with. In the face of those who wish you harm, children of Austinian will
fear nothing. For as the lord said, they can not take from thee what is
thine... In the face of those who would harm your brothers and sisters,
children of Austinian will throw themselves upon the blades of those who
rise against them, to protect one another... But you shall not pick up a
sword to strike them back. Instead, let your voice be the sword that
cuts... Let your faith be your shield.
I say now, let your voice be strong! Praise the glory that is our Lord!
Share his purpose with others!
Let your hands do his will, and let it be unafraid! We have nothing to
fear. For as the children of Austinian, we are the embodiment of strength.
And we shall be reborn in him always.
Prayer:
Father, we are continuously made aware of your wonders... Each day brings
your children a chance to take a new lesson into their hearts... Each day
brings us new opportunities to share your will through the work of our
hands... We trust you father... Above no other. May our feet touch th
ground at your altar, and lead others to your light. May we remember always
the strength you have given us. We thank you Father, for these gifts and
more.
On the Burning of the Library
Perhaps some of you witnessed, or have heard of the events that took
place yestereve, when a mob of angry people began to set alight the books
contained within the library of the church to flame.
It is in times such as these, that many begin to question the will of
Austinian. How could our great father allow these events to take place? I
remind all, that we are beyond understanding the Will of our father. A god
whom we constantly understood would be less than ourselves.
So I remind you this: Yesterday is gone, but its experiences will be
reflected in those of today. We have learned from both the good and the bad
situations of yesterday. It is out of love for us that the father gives us
these lessons... Presents us with situations that will best teach us his
ways.
How we react after these situations is also a part of the learning process.
Where we travel today... Will influence our direction tomorrow. We can't do
over what has gone before, but we can positively incorporate all that
Austinian is teaching us from this moment forth.
We are moving toward greater understanding of Austinian's Will with each
experience. As today unfolds, we can be moved by the adventures. What we
experience is ours alone and will contribute to the unfolding of our special
destiny. This is the love of the father. We move forward, only forward.
The doors behind us are closed forever.
The ability to stand and face what comes to us, with strength, is a gift
from Austinian himself. Being able to find ways to let go of the yesterdays
and the last years is another gift that Austinian presents us. Trust that
what we face alone, with the lessons presented to us, will weave the pattern
of our rightful unfolding- and that is the ultimate gift given to us by
Austinian.
You will be tempted to retaliate against those who have destroyed the
library within the church. I request that you seek not recompense, but that
you only protect your other brothers and sisters of light. Books can be
replaced, rewritten. Bookshelves can be built. Ash can be wiped from the
stone. But your choices can not be wiped from your past... Therefore make
your choices carefully, and learn from any mistakes. Trust in the Will of
Austinian, and you shall set off upon a path to glory.
A Prayer:
Almighty Austinian, take me by your hand. I shall follow you dutifully, and
not resist too much. I shall evade none of the tempest life has in store
for me. I shall try to face it all as best as I can... I shall never again
assume, in my innocence, that any peace that comes my way will be eternal.
I shall accept all the inevitable tumult and struggle... I shall follow
wherever your hand leads me and shall try not to be afraid. I shall try to
spread some of my warmth, of my genuine love for others, wherever I go... I
don't want to be anything special, I only want to try to be true to that in
men which seeks to fulfill its promise.
Torey al Kian
Priestess of Austinian
Hymn of Goodness' Strength
Chorus:
Strength forever, strength together
Goodness weave our hearts forever
Simple joy in knowing Goodness true
Strength together beside all of you
Bringing Goodness forth into day
Hold us strong, blessed in this quest
Following true, never falter, never fray
Nurture our hearts and we need not rest
(Chorus)
Giving love and joy freely this day
Fill our hearts, blessed as we live
Loving true, never falter, never fray
Love our hearts and we return to give
(Chorus)
Healing pain and suffering along the way
Mend our wounds, refreshed by this gift
Strengthen true, never falter, never fray
Heal our hurts and poison we will lift
(Chorus)
Casting light to brighten the way
Fill our minds, blessed as we learn
Teaching true, never falter, never fray
Enrich our lives and from evil we turn
(Chorus)
Honoring all in work and play
Keep us pure, blessed in virtue
Living true, never falter, never fray
Protect our loves and we will march on true
(Chorus)
Counseling with wisdom to show the way
Keep us wise, blessed to forgive
Calming true, never falter, never fray
Warm our hearts and in peace we will live
(Chorus)
Your Inner Light
Each of us is blessed with an internal guide- a source able to direct our
actions if we but acknowledge it. This is our birthright, gifted to us by
our father Austinian. Never should we be in doubt for long about what path
to take. The courage to take it might not be immediately forthcoming;
however, it, too, is one of the gifts with which we have been blessed.
Courage, Knowledge, Strength, Wisdom, Wealth in all that matters in life- is
ours for the asking. The correct path is ours for the taking.
Trusting the light within yourself takes practice, followed by attention to
the results of our actions. Before realising this guide, many of us
passively wait for others to orchestrate our behavior, our feelings and our
attitudes. Stepping forward as a righteous individual, with our own script
in hand, is quite a change- but one we are being coached daily to make, by
none other than our loving father Austinian.
Your inner light helps you to know who you are. More importantly, it helps
us to become the individuals that we long to be, the individuals that the
Father has destined you to be. But more important, it offers us the
spiritual strength to risk listening to the messages that Austinian gives us
each day, within, and the strength to go forth as guided.
May He Guide your Hands,
Torey al Kian
Priestess of Austinian
Elder, Church of Austinian
A Sermon on Oblation
We are all very different people. We all do things differently --
differences can be subtle. Some will dine only on eggs in the morning,
while others will eat sweet-meats. Differences can also be clear -- some
will be kind and trusting towards a stranger, while another may find the
same stranger suspect. We are all very different.
It is this difference, however, that makes us what we are. I would not be
human if I were the same as all of my Brothers and Sisters in the Order. We
all have our own desires, our own needs, our own thoughts, and -- most
importantly! -- our own ways of doing things.
It is only natural, then, that we all genuflect before our own Gods and
prostrate ourselves in our own ways. It is only natural, then, that we all
genuflect before our own Gods and prostrate ourselves in our own ways. Some
will worship Austinian alone -- the Latriors, as the Thalosians called them.
Others worhsip Austinian and what the Thalosians called His Lessers --
meaning Taliena, Kadiya, et cetera -- and were called Hyperduliors. Others
would worship a single one of His Lessers -- they were the Duliors. These
different forms of worship were so prevalent even in Ancient Imperial Thalos
that there were names for the different forms. We are all, and have always
been, very different.
Many of you may wonder why I explain all of this. I grant you this
curiosity, as this is a sermon, not a lesson in the Histories. My
instruction is thus: we each have our own way of percieving the Lord
Austinian's desires. There are none here who are guilty of no crime; there
are none whose method of worship is the 'correct' way. Each of us must
praise Him in our own way -- to do otherwise would not praise him at all.
So, much of the current discussion which is going on, which I happen to find
quite unappealing and rather childish, ought to stop immeadiately. We do
not all wish to be in the Brotherhood of Austinians, and we do not all wish
to enter into Gareth Keep's ranks. We all, however, want to praise our
Father Austinian. Our oblations come in many forms, no two alike, and I
find that to be very important. Austinian bless you.
-- D.S.
A Sermon on Forgiveness
Forgiveness. It is a command. It is not an optional matter. He who
does not forgive disobeys Austinian. He stands condemned as though he were
a liar, thief, and guilty of all sins.
"Forgiveness" is one word but not one act alone. Forgiveness is the process
we live through in order to restore a relationship. Forgiveness is the
process of coming back together again with another or with oneself after a
separation based on wrongdoing or grievous shortcoming. Sometimes the
wrongdoing is the separation. Forgiveness involves the acknowledgment and,
where possible, the mutual recognition of what went wrong, of what we are
doing to right the balance, and especially of the meaning and importance of
the relationship. Forgiving is not forgetting. Forgiving is anchoring a
wrong in its own time, replacing it with love, and letting it recede into
the past as we live and move toward the future.
Forgiving is not "wiping the slate clean," but healing the wounds of the
past so that the present is not contaminated and the future is open.
Forgiving is the healing that allows our hearts to once more become whole.
Forgiveness, however, is hardly a natural act. Our sense of fairness tells
us that people should pay for the wrong they do. Forgiveness goes against
the grain of wanting to even things up. But we also know that if we all
lived by the rule of "an eye for an eye," eventually the whole world would
be blind. Worse than that, things have a way of escalating. An eye for an
eye can become a life for a life, a kingdom for a kingdom, until nothing
remains.
There is no such thing as "just retribution." It does not work. In this
life, hatred never yet dispelled hatred; only love dispels hatred. That is
the law, ancient and immutable. Forgiveness is the only way out. It is the
way our wounded self moves toward wholeness, even as our vindictive self
screams for retribution.
Forgiving is a difficult thing for me and probably for you. There is a real
satisfaction in holding on to my anger.
There is something I get out of my anger and resentment. It makes me feel
righteous. Anger draws a lot of energy, so life feels intense. It feeds my
ego. Me! I have been wronged. As long as I hold on to my anger and my
smoldering resentment it shields me from having to expose my vulnerability.
I do not have to acknowledge to myself and to others just how much I have
been hurt, just how vulnerable I really am. And, if I should lay down the
shield of anger, how will I defend myself?
We have learned how to use anger as a shield, as a defense, we are not
always so good at other means of holding our own.
Accepting people is not forgiving. We do accept each other in spite of the
blemishes we have, in spite of the problems we carry around with us. We
accept people by seeing past their faults to the good qualities of what they
are or can be. We forgive individuals for the bad things they did to us,
for the things which are unacceptable.
Tolerance is not forgiving. Tolerance is having a wide gate, rather than a
narrow gate for what will acceptably pass through. Tolerance is holding a
wider range of what is acceptable. But, there are limits to tolerance. If
you tolerate everything I might do, you are in for trouble. If you forgive
the things I might do that are not tolerable, then you are healing the rift.
I do not have to acknowledge that there is a part of me that could have
done to you, what you did to me. Is there anyone here who has not, at some
time or another, in some way or another, done something to cause a breach in
our relationships? With spouse or loved ones, with parents or children, or
perhaps with friends in this congregation? So we forgive them.
Like many of you, I too have experienced the process of forgiveness in my
life. It is not easy. It happens slowly and often painfully. But it is
definitely worth it, for with forgiveness comes freedom and release. We are
released from the grip of the past and empowered to move on in the direction
of our gracious Lord Austinian.
Forgiveness has four stages: hurt, hate, healing and wholeness. There would
be no reason to forgive, if we were not hurt. The problem arises when we
deny the hurt. We pretend that our feelings have not been bruised. We
fabricate elaborate excuses that rationalize the chaos we feel. We do not
allow ourselves to feel the pain. We are afraid that if we really let
ourselves feel the hurt we experience or cause, it would destroy our bond
with Austinian. Too much is at stake. But the hurt needs to be
acknowledged.
We do not like to admit that we hate someone. It makes us feel mean and
malicious. We do not allow ourselves to feel the pain because we are afraid
of the intensity of the anger we feel. We believe that it will be so
overwhelming that it could destroy us and everyone around us. Trying to
suppress feelings of hurt and anger may appear to keep things under control,
but it comes at a high emotional cost. Suppression does not work. Fiery
feelings may be smothered but they tend to escape at inopportune times and
in veiled ways.
Once we risk feeling the hate, we can begin to heal the hurt. We begin to
heal the hurt by separating the hurt we experienced from the person who
caused it. As we separate our hurt from the person who caused it, as we
begin to forgive people, we gradually come to see the deeper truth to which
our hate has blinded us. The person whom we experienced as a powerful
enemy, was acting out of weakness and need.
As we begin to forgive ourselves, we recognize that we too have acted out of
weakness and need. We all are weak and fallible human beings. We all share
the same humanity. I am part of you and you are part of me.
The act of forgiving has to do with editing our own memory. We cannot
separate the person from the act. But, we can release the person from our
memory of the hurt we experienced. We can release ourselves from the memory
of the hurt we caused. As long as we remain fastened to the past, we let
our hate become our future. Forgiving is allowing a new vision to develop.
You do not pretend that you did not suffer, but you do not let it determine
what happens in the future. You know that forgiveness is working when you
can think of those who hurt you and wish them well.
The forgiving we do to heal the wounds of our memory must have no strings or
guarantees attached. We live in the present. We heal the wounds of our
painful pasts, but the healing is limited by things that have happened to us
in the interim. We can make a new beginning, not where we used to be or
wish we could be, but only where we are now and with what we have at hand.
Forgiving is not easy, but it is possible. I have experienced it in my own
life. I have seen it in others.
When we dare to risk the process, we move toward relationship; we move
toward community; we move toward peace, peace within us, peace among us,
peace among peoples and among nations, and above all we move in the
direction of Austinian.
A Sermon on Dedication
The word dedication comes from the Common verb dedicate. Dedicate comes
from an ancient Thalosian word, dedicare -- dedicare is to dedicate or to
consecrate. Dedicare, in turn, comes from dare, which means a number of
things.
The most frequent meaning of dare is to give -- amantem tibi do, I give you
love. It can also mean that to pay -- pro laborante tibi do, I pay you for
labor, or for your labor. This is not however, a lesson in Thalosian -- I
hope that will not disappoint anyone.
Dare's significance is that it, too, can mean to dedicate -- like dedicare
-- but dare connotes on offering, while dedicare simply means to name
something. Were I to dedicate a book to Austinian, then, I would say librum
Austiniani dedico. Were I to dedicate myself to Austinian, however, I would
say Austiniani do me. What is the difference between these two words, then?
The difference is this: dedicare is not a true giving -- hence the
modification of the word with the prefix de and the infix c. If you take
those two modifiers and combine them, you get the verb cedare, to concede.
This, then, is the rub! Dedicare is to concede something, while dare is to
give it.
At this point, you are all most likely significantly baffled. Why does he
speak of Thalosian? We have abandoned the tongue, what does he attempt to
prove? Well, what I am getting at is this: we ought not simply to dedicate
ourselves to Austinian, we ought to give ourselves to him. If we are not
for him in toto, we merely concede ourselves. Ego Austiniani et boni ipsi
do me -- I give myself to Austinian and to good itself. Austinian beet --
Austinian bless.
-- D.S.
A Sermon on Proper Usage
Considering my past sermons, a sermon about proper usage is a frightful
concept. I will not, however, assault you with subjunctive conditionals,
ablative absolutes, or -- horror of horrors! -- the locative case. I am
not here to talk about when to use the accusative with ad and when to use
the ablative with it. I, in short, am not here to speak about Thalosian.
Usage is today's subject. We use many things, but I am here to talk about
the Gods. Not simply Austinian, though he is the light by which this was
written, but all Gods. We, in a very simple sense, use Gods. A visit to
the poorer section of any city will allow you to hear an invocation of this.
This God damn this, the other God damn that. We also ask the Gods to do
things for us -- let our crops grow higher or more plentiful, let us win in
battle, and so forth. There are perennial beseechments of the Gods.
These eternal requests are too much! What if you beg Zandreya for a better
crop and get none? Is it a fault of Hers? Must the Gods always listen? We
are all made by the Gods, but we are not their children, nor are we their
sheep. If we were meant to have constant guidance from the Gods, why do we
not have it? Why are we not babied?
We are not babied because we are not infants. The Gods are not tools --
they are far greater than us. The Gods being greater than us, however,
ought not preclude our individuality! We ought thank the Gods and ask for
things pro vita and not pro voluptate.
-- D.S.
Hymn to Austinian II
For Mercy, Courage, Kindness, Mirth,
There is no measure here on earth.
Nay, they wither, root and stem,
If an end be set to them.
Overbrim and overflow
If your own heart you would know
For the spirit born to bless
Lives but in its own excess
I'm thankful for joy, and thankful for pain,
Thankful for sunlight, thankful for rain
Thankful you shelter again and again,
Austinian, father, protector and friend.
Rapt Attention
We overlook so many joys, so many hidden treasures, when we hurry from
place to place, person to person, experience to experience, with little
attention anywhere. All that matters passes before us now, at this moment.
And assuredly, we will not pass this way again.
It has been said that the greatest gift we can give one another is rapt
attention; additionally, living life fully attentive to the breezes, the
colors, the sorrows and the thrills as well, is the most prayerful response
any of us can make in this life. Live attentively. Reach out your hand to
others. Live, and in turn share life. Nothing more is asked of us.
Nothing less is expected.
We have just this one life to live, and each day is a blessing from the
father. Even the trials of our life we shall understand as blessings in the
months or years ahead, as we can see now how the painful moments of the past
played their part. Our attitude toward the lessons life has offered makes
all the difference in the world.
Remember that we are all life shapers to one another, in the light of
Austinian.
May He Guilde your Hands,
Torey al Kian
Priestess of Austinian
On the Defenders of the Austinians
Brothers and sisters of the Order who study the martial arts;
The Defenders of the Austinians: Warriors, knights and crusaders of Good
from across the lands; the world is not always a safe place, and these brave
souls protect and defend the Order. They protect the Mages and Priests on
their holy missions, uphold the weak, defend the innocent, and rescue
damsels. These warrior-monks are skilled fighters, but use force only as a
last resort, and gladly give their lives to the cause of good.
Tis at the behest of brother Dannilo Trapspringer that I pen thee this
letter of grave importance. To remind us of the mission of a Defender of
the Order, to walk with blade at our side, ne'er to brandish, but in good
faith that our charges shall not be cut down before their mission or
conversion to Goodness is complete. To defend our comrades, yet not monger
war or rejoice in bloodshed tis a narrow path, that only the strong of faith
and heart may endure.
At this time, upon our lands walks a great evil. An evil who will tempt us
from our path, to violate Oath and honor, without knowing the evil we walk
towards. Always, we must be vigilant, to keep our comrades safe from harm
and our hearts filled with virtue, for in doing so tis the only way we will
succeed in our mission. We are the Defenders of the Austinians, and that is
our holy mission.
It is requested that those Defenders who keep regular duty hours and
training schedules make themselves known or present accordingly to aid our
comrades and the weak and lost of the lands. Those new to the service, are
quite welcome to approach myself, or Brother Dannilo for advice in training
or lore. Knowledge tis a stronger weapon than steel, and tis this that we
wield as our Order's greatest strength to defend our comrades with wit and
wisdom.
We are no rank lesser or greater than our mage, bard, and priestly comrades
(save our wise elders!) , Yet those of our profession, though we dare not
admit it at times, can be a lonely and difficult path. We are here for each
other: equals under the Gods, and will always share what wisdom experience
in service to the Order has gifted us.
Keep thee well in Kantilles and His Father's grace,
- Paynifier Ahalin, Defender of the Austinians
Living a Priestly Lifestyle
This is written as a guide to priests and clerics in training on living a
religious lifestyle as a priest of Austinian. Bear in mind that upon
choosing to walk this path, you life will forever be tied to service to
Austinian and the Church. Parishioners and non-believers alike will accept
whatever you say or do as the opinion or stance of the Holy Church and react
accordingly. This is not to say we cannot have a "private" life, but said
lives must be conducted in the grace and dignity of Austinian's Wisdom so to
set a good example to your parish. In other words; practice what you
preach.
Prayer
Prayer is a means of both communication with Austinian and meditation on His
will. A regular regime must be maintained to administer the divine
blessings. However, your prayers should not end with the prayer for wisdom.
On waking, before you go about your duties, take a moment to pray and
meditate on Austinian's will and how it will affect your actions this day.
Pray to the heavens thanking Him for the day and humbly ask for His strength
and guidance throughout it.
An evening prayer, similar in nature, should reflect on your actions that
day. Ask forgiveness for any mistakes you may have made and share in the
joys you have experienced. Additionally, during the day members of your
parish, the Church, or potential converts may ask that a prayer be said for
them. Be sure that you do this with a clear mind and firm understanding of
the issues your charge is concerned with. It is important also that you
encourage your charge to conduct prayers himself. The Father has expressed
His joy in the sounds of His followers voices and hearts in prayer. A
lifestyle in prayer and meditation is a benefit to all, not just the clergy.
The practice of addressing a notice to the Immortal Austinian and writing a
prayer on the paper then burning it or sending it to the heavens via some
other means is also very effective. This should be done occasionally to
reaffirm your dedication to God and Church. This form of prayer and
devotion is also a useful method for your charges outside the priesthood in
the parish. The action of writing the note helps the untrained to collect
their thoughts and meditate their prayer in a coherent manner.
Daily Duties
What you actually do during the day will depend greatly on your assignment.
Whether it be a kingdom parish, army or navy or clan's chaplain, missionary,
or service within the Order of Austinians you are responsible for that
group's spiritual well being and keeping them in Austinian's good graces. A
regular worship service, education in the teachings of the prophets and
sages, discussion groups, celebrations and consoling should be made
available to your charges. Not all methods work equally well with all
cultures and societies, so it will be up to you to find the best way to
minister to your parishioners.
Clan and other army chaplains will likely find themselves on the battlefield
at some point and will have to keep up with self-defense exercises as well
as skill in first aid and healing. Know the conditions and actions of
clanmates on the battlefield so that you may properly counsel and minister
to them. Understand the reasons behind the war so that you may see to it
that your clan and charges within conduct themselves in battle (and out)
according to Austinian's wisdoms on such matters.
A priest who has been posted within a kingdom parish should familiarize
his or herself with the local customs. See that you help promote a goodly
lifestyle which adhears to local laws without compromising the Laws of God
and the Church. Encourage your parishioners to help provide services to the
community. This will help strengthen the community in Austinian's good
graces, as well as create a pleasant kingdom to live in.
Those priests who serve within the Order of Austinians, or have no current
posting must educate themselves in healing, counseling, and all other
religious practices. Preparedness is key in ministering in a wide world
where anything may happen. You will find yourself giving out alms to the
poor in one moment and performing an exorcism in the next. Be sure to take
time in the quiet moments to pray and meditate, as well as replenish used
supplies.
In all places, be sure that everything you do reflects the Will and Way of
Austinian. Your charges will look to you for guidance and wisdom, and
emulate your behavior.
Donations and Offerings
Make sure members of your parish understand that they may not buy their way
into heaven and Austinian's good grace. Sacrifices and donations to God and
Church are no substitution for living a goodly lifestyle. Only when wisely
utilized do offerings become a part of the goodly life. Whether or not you
choose to accept monetary donations is up to you or the by-laws of your
Order or assignment. You may instead elect to encourage the generous (and
less generous) to involve themselves with some sort of service to the
community instead. The Father loves our good deeds and generous acts of
kindness towards others. Local custom may also play into what is acceptable
sacrifice or offering. A wemic once mentioned the Father's delight in the
roasting of a wild boar upon the altar.
Whatever sacrifices your parishioners make for the Father, see that they are
used for the parish and Church wisely. If members of the parish are poor
and starving do not take the offering and buy golden candle sticks for the
altar: set up a program to effectively feed your parish instead. Should all
the basic needs of your charges be met, other acceptable uses of funds may
include a local temple, payment for books and scribes to record important
texts, or a side chapel within your clan or kingdom hall. Devotional
objects might be crafted and distributed to your parish. Prayer beads or
holy symbols for the newly converted or confirmed. Remember always to be
fair with the donations of your parish and keep the books open and available
for them to see how they as a group benefit by investing time or money to
the Church. Devotional items or temples are not to be substitutions for
educating and building your charges up in Austinian's way. Temples and
prayer beads are nothing more than empty rooms or fancy jewelry without the
education and teachings of Austinian fully anchored in the minds and hearts
of those who use them.
Conclusion
Mingle and spend time with the members of your parish. Take the time to
learn about them and their unique needs so that you may minister to them in
a way they fine fulfilling. Confer and share your experiences with your
fellow priests and clergy; we are all in service to Austinian and the Church
together, and can aid each other with out combined wisdom. Be a steady and
dependable part of your charges' lives, and they will gladly make Austinian
a part of their own life.
- Deacon Krelzi Quan'ku of the Church of Austinian
Member of the Order of Austinians
To Teach Goodness
Father, Father, where shall we begin?
So many ears which have not heard,
So far and wide to spread thy word,
Children, children; start from within.
Cultivate goodness from inside,
Listen to love and life,
Weed out hatred and strife,
Let the Father grow and rise!
Father, Father, where shall we begin?
So many ears which have not heard,
So far and wide to spread thy word,
Children, children; start from within.
From inside goodness will grow,
Offer life and love to another,
In this way teach of the Father,
Let the kindness spread and know:
Father, Father, we shall start from within.
So many ears will hear thy word,
Goodness will spread across the world,
We will fill out hearts and begin!
An Apology, and Clarification
Blessings to You,
Perception is crucial to understanding. How you see, and what you see,
determines how you will act. Your perception, our perception, and our views
of reality is the lens through which we see things.
I am not preaching to you now, but merely explaining, and I beg your
forgiveness if it sounds thus. I wish to state that it was my perception of
words that I had heard that I was speaking, unintentionally. While I had
not sought to warp the Father's words to suit my own needs, I had honestly
misunderstood their intent. I wish to state this now. I have misunderstood
the word of the Father, and I have been corrected.
Nor had I wished to stir unrest amongst the ranks of either of our orders, I
beg to place before you that this was never my intention. I had only
intended for you to seek guidance from the father in regards to this matter,
as I had (misunderstandingly) heard otherwise.
In order to settle this matter between both, I will state the words that the
Father spoke to me- thus, I am certain that we will both be able to act
accordingly.
So will those pure of heart be welcomed. Those who wouldst strike my
children as they kneel in prayer are to be cast out.
The blood of my children is the blood I shall mourn.
I shalt not extend them more protection than I wouldst mine own.
I seek no blood in my house, yet if the blood of my faithful is shed, those
who bear arms against them shall be driven out.
---
So has it been said.
May the will of Austinian be heard and done. I apologize for any conflict
which I pay have caused, and beg all to consider these words, and be at
peace with one another. As children of the light, we must work as one to
serve the Greater Good.
May HE Guide your Hands,
Torey al Kian
Child of Austinian
Elder, Church of Austinian
To be an Advocate
To be an advocate of Goodness; someone who not only leads a goodly life, but
also helps to guide others in leading goodly lives is an important task.
This work is not just limited to the clergy or priesthood, but all
followers; meek and mild, learned or simple, may represent Austinian's will
and way. When we leave this church building later this day, and return home
to our farms, shops or the battle field, we still are the children of
Austinian, and He still watches over us.
Taking what is taught here and then applying it to your daily life is a
considerable strain at times. Here Goodness and behavior appropriate to it
comes easily. In this room are other followers of Goodness, students of the
scriptures and clergy and priests to advise and support you on the righteous
path. The attitude and purpose of this room is conductive to inspiring
Goodness; evil will find no foot holds here.
Outside and after this service; however, this may not be so true. You will
find yourself amongst many who do not share our beliefs. Countries,
markets, clans and governments which care very little about Austinian's will
or way will seek to control or sway you to perform what deeds they see as
most useful to their purposes. In these places amongst these people you
become His advocate. Attempt not just what is common or expected of you by
such agencies, but what the Lord of Goodness would have you do. Be wary and
vigilant that you do not adopt the unsavory methods of unbelivers, but that
unbelivers adopt and learn the way of Goodness from you.
When a decision must be made, remember to think upon those here, our
meetings and sermons, and the will of Austinian before you act. By
faithfully following the Father's good will you will become his advocate
where you live. His wisdom will benefit your leaders, homes, markets, and
all those around you. Your acts of Goodness in their lives will open their
hearts to His wisdom and way.
One might say my instruction here today is incomplete. I have told you to
perform the Father's will outside of this service, yet I have not spoken on
what that specifically entails. Such is the meat for many other sermons,
and know that it is the Father's will that His will be spread outside our
group here. I leave you with this advice today in deciphering the Father's
will: Austinian's will is the goodness, kindness, purity and love in your
soul. Look to it for instruction on making choices outside of this church,
and you will know and further the Father of Good's way.
On the Celebration of Confession
Liturgy for receiving confessions to the Father of Good, Austinian.
The elements of the celebration are ordinarily these:
a greeting and blessing from the priest, reading the word of Austinian to
illuminate the conscience and elicit contrition, and an exhortation to
repentance
the confession, which acknowledges sins and makes them known to the priest
the appointment and acceptance of a penance
the priest's absolution
a prayer of thanksgiving and praise and dismissal with the blessing of the
priest
* * * * *
The Father has made it known to me: He, Austinian, is compassionate and
forgiving. He knows the mistakes we mortals have made, and offers all the
comfort and love of the Good to replace our sorrow. He is the consort of
unending Love and Happiness and will gladly accept your prayers of and for
forgiveness. What wrongs you may have committed will be forgiven and lifted
so that you may learn and grow in the Light of His embrace.
An example of an invocation of absolution: May the same God who forgave
Mithrax the heritic when he did confess his sins and ask to make anew, who
forgave and released Malachive, son of evil, to allow him to learn love and
forgiveness in life, forgive you through me, a sinner, forgive you both in
this life and in the next and enable you to appear before His awe-inspiring
presence without condemnation, He who is goodness for ever and ever.
The confession (or disclosure) of sins, even from a simply mortal point of
view, frees us and facilitates our reconciliation with others. Through such
an admission a person may look squarely at the sins he or she is guilty of,
and takeresponsibility for them. Through this process the sinner opens his
or herself up to Austinian and makes growth and a new future possible.
Without being strictly necessary, confession of everyday faults (venial
sins) is strongly recommended. The regular confession of our venial sins
helps us form our conscience, fight against evil tendencies, let ourselves
be healed by Austinian. By frequently partaking in this celebration of
Austinian's mercy and forgiveness encourages us to be merciful and forgiving
to others in our lives.
While absolution takes away sin, it does not take away the disorders sin has
caused. Raised up from sin, to recover their full spiritual health, the
sinner must perform some act to make amends for the sin: he or she must make
satisfaction for the sins committed. This satisfaction is also called
penance. Penance should not be confused with punishment, it is a chance for
the sinner to make corrective actions for their mistakes.
The penance the confessor imposes must take into account the penitent's
personal situation and must seek his or her spiritual good. It must
be approprate to the gravity and nature of the sins committed. It can
consist of prayer, an offering, works of mercy, service of neighbor,
voluntary self-denial, or other sacrifices.
From the writings of the faithful on confession and forgiveness:
Tolerance is not forgiving. Tolerance is having a wide gate, rather than a
narrow gate for what will acceptably pass through. Tolerance is holding a
wider range of what is acceptable. But, there are limits to tolerance. If
you tolerate everything I might do, you are in for trouble. If you forgive
the things I might do that are not tolerable, then you are healing the rift.
- Deacon Torey al Kian, A Sermon on Forgiveness
Routinely confess your sins to your god. We are mortal and all of us sin.
Too few of us have a routine practice of rigorous self-honesty examination.
Be it weekly or even daily, review your heart and behavior in conjunction
with your confession. The next step is to acknowledge your sin to others
for humility before the gods is not complete unless there is also humility
before man. A true test of our willingness to humble ourselves is being
willing to share with others the weaknesses we confess to our god. Wisdom
dictates that we should do so with others that we trust.
- Sir Varner Pferdritter, Humility in practice
Psalm: To Spread Austinian's Gift
Goodness is Your gift
Goodness is Your joy
Blessed are those with means to employ
To work Your will
To spread Goodness to all
Blessed are those who fail and fall
For You will uplift
For you will forgive
Blessed are they who again will live
They will know Your gift
They will know Your joy
Blessings of Good will be their's to employ
To work Your will
To spread Goodness to all
Blessed to see that Your Light never fall
- Deacon Krelzi Quan'ku
Living for Austinian
Your daily life is nothing else but an expression of your spiritual
condition. Therefore, should you live to please first your Lord, and second
yourself. Lest it be pleasing yourself through pleasing your Lord.
Even then, you must humble yourself until you are ready to meet your
destiny- which is action. It is one thing to claim Austinian as your own,
and it is another thing entirely to live as he has decreed you to do.
Therefore, shall you rise to protect your brother.
Therefore, shall you spread his example, through kindness.
Therefore, should your hands know the work of Austinian.
Therefore, shall you be as Austinian's earthly hand, acting as he has charged you.
As a person's true power grows, and knowledge widens, ever the ways that he
or she can follow Austinian grows narrower: until at last he or she chooses
nothing, but does only and wholly what he or she must do.
I bid you to pray to the Allfather, and recieve your guidance.
May He Guide your Hands,
Torey al Kian
Priestess of Austinian
Elder, Order of Austinians
Together as a Family
The Pantheon of Good. Sometimes we may forget that these Gods and
Goddesses are a family. Together they comprise and over see all that is
good in the world.
This does not mean that they are the same; it means that they are all
individuals who work and grow together. Who assist with spreading good by
performing their own unique chore as a family spreads and shares the work
about the home. The Father heads this family, and has given His strength
and good wisdom to all His children, and His Love. As His Love has passed
on Her love and joy to Peace, Honor, Good Magic, and Healing.
They have given their children life, energy, love and the wisdom to grow and
see goodness prevail with joy. They are wise parents, and know that their
children are not themselves, but a unique person who will do their own part
for good in their own way. Trusting that the wisdom and nurturing they have
given their children to see them through. Knowing better than to make their
children do things exactly how they have done, for their path to goodness
will be as unique as the child.
We are all children of Good in this way, nurtured in Love and blessed with
the Father's wisdom. We are all unique and have a different mission in
life. We are not our parents, but we have been gifted with their wisdom and
joy and life. We cannot ignore our loving family when they have need, nor
will they ignore or disown us when we have need. Remember these blessings
as you go about your own way, and work alongside your sisters and brothers.
Together with what we have learned, and with our unique gifts we work to
make the family whole, loving, and strong.
Walk with the Father's grace,
- Deacon Krelzi Quan'ku of Austinian
Peace
We have been witnessing an extraordinary public drama in these past
weeks, but I can recall such things happening through all the years of my
life. There are so many facets to the situations of those around us,
some of great importance, some of lesser... But I want to focus on just
one. Peace.
Hatred has never dispelled Hatred. It is only love that can dispel hatred.
Likewise, anger only brings more discontent. The quickest path to
resolution in your life is acceptance. Forgivness.
Neither of these are a natural act. Our sense of "fairness" demands that
people should be able to accept our side when there is a disagreement. It
goes against the grain of our humanity to let go and forgive.
However, when we begin this with ourselves, When we dare to risk the
process, we move toward relationship; we move toward community; we move
toward peace, peace within us, peace among us, peace among peoples and among
nations.
How long we hold onto something is our own choice.
Torey al Kian
Priestess of Austinian
Elder, Order of Austinians
To Cultivate Goodness
To cultivate and spread goodness is a vast task. One which involves many
people in many positions and places in the lands. The Father takes joy in
seeing goodness grow, and by working to ensure that goodness prevails we
make the Father's joy a part of our life. He depends upon us to plant the
seeds of goodness where we go, and to nurture them to maturity.
The old saying, "you reap that which you sow" applies to the cultivation of
goodness. If you offer the kindness and goodwill around you no nourishment
or protection it will wither and die. Give generously to others what you
have: wisdom, strength, shelter, education, and healing. A handful of seeds
cannot make a meal for many on their own, and are easily ignored. However,
when properly planted and cared for, in time they will grow into a garden to
nourish you and your loved ones in return for the care by your hand.
Nurture others with your strength and protect them from harm. It is this
nurturing that is sometimes forgotten; we often assume that once planted
goodness will take root all on its own. Even if the field you plowed under
before was free of weeds when you planted it you must return to that field,
and care for the seedlings to ensure that all is well. In times of draught
you must bring water; in times of rain you must labor to properly irrigate
the field. It is never enough to simply vanquish a weed and leave the
field. In pulling a weed you simply leave a hole in which another weed will
grow unless you maintain the grounds and plant a fruitful vine in its place.
Goodness does not vanquish by weapon; it must be planted and nurtured into
the hearts of others.
Thoughtful and kind acts, no matter how simple and easy to forget you may
think they are now, are the spring sunlight which will warm hearts to grow
in goodness. Perform them diligently in the gardens and fields of life
around you, and goodness will grow to nurture and protect you, as you did
it.
Walk with the Father's grace,
Deacon Krelzi Quan'ku of Austinian
Prayer for Austinian's Faithful
Almighty Austinian, we are but apprentices in the greatest
profession that we may know... serving man, and profiting it with
an example of your grace. Inspire us with love for our art and for
your children. Do not allow thirst for profit, ambition for
renown and admiration, to interfere with our duty- for these are
the enemies of truth and of love for mankind, and they can lead
astray in the great task of attending to the souls and hearts of
your children.
Preserve the strength of our bodies and our souls that they ever
be ready to cheerfully help and support rich and poor, good and
evil, enemy as well as friend. In the sufferer let us see only that
seed of light which is in their soul. Illuminate our minds that
they recognize what presents itself and that it may comprehend what
is absent or hidden. Let them not fail to see what is visible,
but do not permit it to arrogate to itself the power to see what
cannot be seen, for delicate and indefinite are the bounds of the
great art of serving Your grace.
Should those who are wiser than we wish to improve and instruct
us, let our souls gratefully follow their guidance; for vast is
the extent of your wisdom, and many are your gifts upon us. Should
those who have strayed from Your path, however, censure us, then
let our great love for You, our father, steel us against them- so
that we remain steadfast without regard for blade, for reputation,
or for false honor, because surrender would bring to your
children only death to the world.
Let us be contented in everything except in the great science of
our profession. Never allow the thought to arise in us that we
have attained to sufficient knowledge, but vouchsafe to us the
strength, the leisure and the ambition ever to extend our
knowledge and service to You. For our art is great, but the mind of
man is ever expanding.
Almighty Austinian! You have chosen us in your grace to watch
over the lives of your children! We now apply ourselves to your
profession. Support us in this great task so that it may benefit
mankind, for without Your guidance not even the least thing will
succeed.
May He Guide your Hands,
Torey al Kian
Priestess of Austinian
Patience and Austinian's Good Work
With wonder and hope we look to the future. It is in this vast realm of
unknown possibilities and untold stories we wish to be. We all pray that it
come and bring its blessings to us soon. We lift the future and that
blessings which it promises up in importance. Forgotten is the validity of
today's actions and how they will influence tomorrow, and we impatiently
stand wanting what is tomorrow to form now.
To pray for goodness and then run wildly into the unknown does show faith in
Austinian's boundless good will, but it forgets one of His prized virtues:
Patience. As the Father is patient with us, so we must learn to be patient
with ourselves as we grow, and with the world as it unravels to us. What
tomorrow will be is what we prepared today. There will be no harvest to
celebrate and feast upon in the Autumn if we do not plant in the Spring.
The future will come, and all to soon for the unprepared.
Covet not what may be ahead of you and wish for it before you have
celebrated fully what and where you are now. Be glad for the slow and
mysterious blessings and wisdom that the present moment brings. Perhaps
tomorrow you will be stronger, wiser, and more skillful, but think how you
may serve Austinian as you are today. Prayers and good deeds performed to
the best of your current abilities will be joyfully witnessed. The Father
is patient; he knows we will all grow, and takes delight in our work along
the way. It is our patient, slow, and humble work that we do to further
good today that insures the world be blessed and filled with the Austinian's
good grace tomorrow.
Tomorrow will be blessed because we joyfully said the blessing today.
Walk with Austinian's grace,
Deacon Krelzi Quan'ku, member of the Order of Austinians
Sermon for Responsible Spiritual Leadership
Almighty Austinian, eternal Alfather, as my words are true to Your Word,
may they be taken to heart, but as my words should stray from Your Will, may
they be quickly forgotten. And so may it be.
I think all of us are aware today that we live in a land where righteous
followers of the pantheon of Austinian are a minority. The culture around
us no longer affirms the same things that we affirm in here, our services to
the Allfather. But the real danger is the fact that many conflicting and
non-righteous values are being brought into the church and its most devout
followers. It's even being brought in by some of the leadership, to the
point where sometimes I wonder if some of my brothers and sisters in the
priesthood are trying to create another church entirely.
This is the point of my speaking today... That if people in spiritual
leadership don't have their hearts firm in Austinian, then the church is in
jeopardy. And if those people who support the cause of light do not have
their hearts right with Austinian, then the cause is in jeopardy.
Neutrality, my brothers and sisters, is a dangerous rope to walk on.
I can almost feel the room tense as I say these words... But I say to you,
those that hold room in their hearts for darkness do not have room for the
light, for the light is all encompassing. Our path is not one to pick and
choose from at your whim, or to mold to your own reality. Our path is firm
and straight, with no gray areas in between stepping stones.
If you love the light, I ask you to open your hearts to it, and to welcome
it in. Austinian accepts you with open arms, and your rewards shall be
great. The path of the righteous shall grow stronger in your presance, and
the world shall be better for it. Throw off the bonds of neutrality, cast
off the heavy chains of darkness, and you will find that your life- in
living for Austinian- will have great purpose, and you shall find peace of
mind and of heart and of soul.
Prayer
Almighty Austinian, I thank you that you show us the correct path always.
Father, the ways of good are not things that we can decide on our own at
whim or "will" into our lives. Those are gifts of your grace. I pray for
every soul here tonight, and those who would know some measure of goodness
in their lives. May we all see the error of our ways, and devote ourselves
more fully to you. May our lives inspire men and women of authenticity and
integrity in the path that leads to Your Greatness, that you might be able
to use us, use your church here, to advance your kingdom here on Algoron.
May the righteous vanquish the sinners, may all see the truth of our ways
and fall to their knees before that which is your might. May they, in your
mercy, be saved.
A Call for Goodly Deeds
It is a pleasure indeed to see many take comfort, joy and wisdom from the
Father's words. These teachings and wisdoms are the anchor which keep us
from drifting away from the protection of his safe and good harbor. These
wisdoms of the Father are to be cherished, but not idly; for the wisdom of
Austinian is of no use till it is put to practice.
To say you cherish and understand the Father's teachings, yet not act with
them on your mind serves no purpose, good or otherwise. One with such an
attitude is worse off than the those who live ignorant of the Father's good
words. The ignorant may still act upon the goodness that is in the hearts
of all mortals, whether he is alertly aware of it or not. The one who knows
the Father's will, but does nothing to act upon it is a quiet heretic:
one who knowingly denies the path which Austinian has lay down before him.
Many live life content to attempt to do no overt evil. This way is not
enough to see goodness spread. To see goodness grow, you must actively seek
to do good around you. By doing nothing one gives evil leave to spread and
grow as it may. The apathetic or lazy follower of good who claims to love
the teachings of the Father, will soon find them drown out and vacant from
their life as they allow evil to surround them unchecked. The idle are
always happy to have good will come their way, but unless they make the
action to reach out to this good, none will find them to reach to.
Austinian does not just ask for us to respect and enjoy his teachings and
wisdoms; he asks that we act upon them. The teachings of good themselves
demand action by their own nature. Giving aid, mercy, forgiveness, love and
hope are not idle tasks which can be done by wishes. They must be achieved
by activity else no good will ever come. Just to think you know and respect
goodness from listening and reading the sermons and teachings of the Father
and His prophets is not enough to be good. The actions you take upon
hearing the word and will of the Father of Good will truly define your
allegiance and faith in good.
- Krelzi Quan'ku