Lurian

Lurian
Great Elder	Kanani
Region	Western Hesperida
Language	Aenian
Origin	Antiquity Aeluria
Congregations	267
Members	535,200
Elders	534

Lurian is a polytheistic religion in Western Hesperida. It is the native religion of the island of Aeluria in Lauchenoiria. Lurites worship a variety of deities that represent parts of nature – the main deities being those of land (Luria), trees (Arbrera), the sky, and water (with a large variety of minor deities). The central tenets of Lurian include pacifism, tolerance, and a desire for balance in the world.

The very name Aeluria means, in the native dialect, ‘of the goddess of the land’. Worshippers are referred to as Lurites, and pray at dawn and dusk outdoors. A central tenet of Lurian is respect for nature which is seen as divine. Lurian services take place in outdoor 'temples' surrounded by trees and must be open to the natural elements.

Beliefs

Lurites believe that humanity is fundamentally interconnected with nature, and that each natural element has a deity which created and cares for that element. Every problem on Earth arises in some way from a lack of care for nature, and solutions may be found to one's problems by praying to the deity corresponding with the element that most affects the issue at hand. Certain elements are also associated with certain emotions; such as love being associated with water - meaning that a Lurite seeking advice on romance would pray to the water goddess.

Worship

Lurites can attend up to two services each day; however are only required to attend at least once a week unless ill or otherwise unable. Services take place between the crack of dawn and sunrise; and between sunset and last light. One congregational Elder will lead the dawn service, while the other will lead the dusk service. Services take place in outdoor temples, which are generally oval-shaped groves surrounded by hedges, containing at least two trees. Worshippers will sit on the ground or on seats made of natural materials such as rock or wood, if unable to sit on the ground. Services can involve singing, sharing religious experiences, or sitting in silence; decided by the congregation itself at each service.

Structure

Lurian employs an age-based system for determining the leaders of a congregation. Any follower of Lurian may undertake the training and rituals required to be considered a Guide; someone who may assist others in leading religious rituals. Each congregation has two leaders. When an Elder of a congregation passes away or resigns, the eldest Guide in the congregation takes their place. Traditionally, only the eldest female could take this role, but since 1892 it has been open to anyone regardless of gender. The Great Elder is elected from among all willing congregational Elders; with each Lurian worshipper receiving a vote.