Temple Structure

Our structure may seem confusing at first, but we promise it isn't!

Part of the fun as Clergy is that you have the opportunity to ascend through the structure as you engage with our RP. This is highly focused on character development and embracing the Temple as an immersive RP environment.

Engaging with the structure is entirely optional. You are welcome to remain an Acolyte indefinitely. But, advancing through the structure does come with some benefits!

Neophyte

A Neophyte is a new member of the Clergy, embarking on a path of spiritual devotion and service to the Goddess. These individuals are at the earliest stage of their journey, learning the teachings of Menphina and the customs of the Temple. Neophytes are expected to observe and absorb the wisdom of the Priests, Priests, and other Clergy. While still in training, they are guided by mentors and leadership to develop their spiritual knowledge, hone their skills, and embody the values that define Menphina's faithful.

Limitations of the Neophyte

As the newest members of our Clergy, Neophytes are expected to work closely with their assigned Mentors and Leadership to build a strong foundation in the Temple's practices and traditions. This foundational knowledge is essential to embodying the essence of the Temple, and as such, Neophytes are not permitted to take on responsibilities beyond their current training. Specifically, Neophytes are not allowed to:

Accept any type of Booking
Host gatherings or events
Serve in any role other than "Attendant" during Worship Services or Etheirian Delights
Participate in specialized training, such as becoming a Theologian or managing the Booking Desk
Join any supportive teams, such as Photography or Advertising

These guidelines ensure Neophytes have ample time to focus on their training and development before advancing to more complex roles within the Clergy.

Training to Ascend from Neophyte to Acolyte

Neophytes must complete a structured basic training program before progressing to the role of Acolyte. This training is designed to familiarize new members with the Temple of Menphina’s core values, role-play (RP) practices, and the various tools that support our community. The introduction covers the Temple's purpose, our fantasy religion-focused RP, and key expectations for Clergy members. Neophytes are also trained on how to navigate essential tools, such as Discord for communication, our handbook website for guidelines and lore, and other available resources to ensure smooth participation.

A uniform check ensures that each Neophyte is appropriately attired for Clergy duties, maintaining the visual consistency of the Temple's sacred image. Additionally, they are provided with the basics of how to role-play as Clergy, including guidance on embodying Menphina’s teachings, interacting with other Clergy, and offering hospitality to guests in both SFW and NSFW contexts, where applicable. This foundational training prepares Neophytes for their future role as Acolytes, equipping them with the knowledge and skills to contribute to the Temple’s mission of love, healing, and compassion.

There is no time limit in which this training must be completed. So long as the Neophyte is active and engaged, they may work at their own pace. However, should a Neophyte go inactive or unresponsive, they will be removed from Clergy and required to start over if they choose to return.

Acolyte

An Acolyte at the Temple of Menphina is a dedicated servant who has completed their initial training and now actively participates in the sacred duties of the Clergy. With a deepening understanding of Menphina's teachings, Acolytes assist with rituals, offer support to their fellow Clergy, and begin to engage more directly with the Congregation and guests. Though still growing in their spiritual journey, Acolytes embody the values of love, compassion, and devotion, offering their guidance to those who seek the temple’s solace. Under the continued mentorship of Priests and Leadership, they refine their skills and knowledge as they prepare to take on greater responsibilities within the Temple.

Limitations of the Acolyte

Acolytes enjoy greater freedom within the Temple, with only a few specific restrictions. They are welcome to pursue additional training for any supportive roles, such as joining specialized teams or even stepping into leadership positions if there is a need. Acolytes are also permitted to accept bookings, host gatherings, and engage in many other activities that support the Temple’s mission. While they may not always hold a formal title or role, Acolytes are considered representatives of the Temple. Having completed their basic training, they are equipped to handle nearly all fundamental duties of the Clergy with confidence and professionalism. There are a few key limitations for Acolytes:

Booking rate is set at 100,000 gil per hour and cannot be adjusted, even if the Acolyte joins Leadership
May not take on security-specific roles
May not offer specialized services at stations during Worship Services or Etheirian Delights

Ascending from an Acolyte to a Pup or Disciple

Acolytes seeking to take on more responsibility have two distinct paths available to them: becoming a protector of the Temple as a Hound or dedicating themselves to Menphina’s service as a member of the Priesthood. This decision is a significant one, as Acolytes may only choose one path and cannot be a member of both sects. It is encouraged that Acolytes take time to explore both roles, engage in conversations with members of each branch, and reflect on their personal strengths and aspirations before making this important commitment.

Once an Acolyte has made their decision, they must approach the appropriate member of Leadership to begin the process. Acolytes wishing to become a Hound must speak with a Hound Captain, while those seeking to join the Priesthood must consult with a Prior or Prioress. It is important to note that each Hound Captain and Prior/ess can only mentor a limited number of trainees at any given time. As patience is a valued virtue within the Temple, Acolytes should be prepared for the possibility that the Leadership member they approach may not be immediately available to take on new trainees. If this occurs, the Acolyte may request to be trained by another leader. Should no leaders be available, the Acolyte will be placed on a waitlist and will be notified when an opportunity arises to begin their training. This process ensures that every trainee receives the attention and guidance they need to fully develop in their chosen path.

Disciple

A Disciple is a devoted follower who has chosen the path of the Priesthood, dedicating themselves to the teachings and service of the Goddess. They are in an intermediate stage of their spiritual journey, training closely under a Prior/ess to deepen their understanding of Menphina’s will. Disciples assist in leading rituals, guiding the faithful, and offering support to those seeking the Goddess’s love and healing. They are entrusted with greater responsibilities and are seen as spiritual leaders in the making, embodying Menphina’s compassion, wisdom, and devotion as they prepare for their eventual role as full Priests. Their dedication to love, compassion, and the moonlit path is unwavering as they continue to grow in their faith.

Limitations of the Disciple

Disciples have few limitations. At times, their Prior/ess will request that they refrain from specific activities until they have reached certain points within their training. However, the following remain true:

Booking rate is set at 100,000 gil per hour and cannot be adjusted, even if the Disciple joins Leadership
May not take on security-specific roles

Ascending from Disciple to Priesthood

On their journey to becoming full members of the Priesthood, Disciples are encouraged to cultivate a duality of knowledge and self-discovery. Not only must they immerse themselves in the deeper lore, wisdom, and teachings of the Temple and Menphina, but they are also expected to reflect on their own personal growth. This is a time of self-exploration, where they determine who they are and who they aspire to become as Priests or Priestesses, aligning their individual strengths with the greater mission of the Temple.

Throughout this training, Disciples work closely with a Prior or Prioress, receiving mentorship in various aspects of Priesthood. This includes developing a profound understanding of healing practices, embodying the expected decorum of the Clergy, and refining any specialized skills or talents they possess that can be offered in service to the Temple. Disciples are expected to have at least one service they can offer in addition to healing, such as divination, ritual work, theology, and so on. If a Disciple does not have a pre-existing skill or talent, this phase of their training serves as an opportunity to discover and develop one. Disciples use this time to become well-rounded and fully prepared to serve Menphina and the Temple community with their unique gifts.

Hound Pup

A Pup is a trainee on the path to becoming a Hound, devoted to the protection of the Temple and its followers. Under the guidance of the Hound Captain and experienced Hounds, Pups learn the ways of safeguarding the sanctuary, not only through strength but also through empathy and understanding. They are taught that the true heart of a protector lies in the balance of vigilance and compassion, standing ready to shield the vulnerable while upholding the values of love and kindness. As they grow in their training, Pups develop the skills and wisdom necessary to become trusted guardians of Menphina’s flock, ever watchful, yet gentle in their approach.

Limitations of the Pup

Similar to Disciples, Pups have few restrictions except those placed by their Hound Captain. The following remain true:

Booking rate is set at 100,000 gil per hour and cannot be adjusted, even if the Pup joins Leadership
May not offer specialized services at stations during Worship Services or Etheirian Delights

Ascending from Pup to Hound

Training to become a Hound encompasses both OOC and IC elements, preparing Pups to protect the Temple in all aspects. OOC, Hounds are responsible for defending the Temple from trolls and disruptive players, ensuring a safe and enjoyable RP environment. Pups are trained to handle such situations quietly and efficiently, learning the proper procedures for in-house reporting as well as using official game reporting systems when necessary. This foundational knowledge is vital for maintaining the integrity of the Temple and safeguarding its members.

On the IC side, Pups learn that being a Hound is not just about physical protection, but also about embodying honor, guardianship, and love. Protection is seen as a sacred act, just like any other service to Menphina. During their training, Pups without prior martial experience receive combat training from Hound Captains, while all Pups are trained in conflict resolution and nonviolent interventions. The goal is to equip them with both the skills to defend the Temple and the wisdom to resolve conflicts peacefully whenever possible, ensuring they uphold the values of love and compassion in their role.

Priesthood

The Priesthood of the Temple of Menphina is comprised of the most devoted servants of the Goddess, dedicated to upholding her teachings of love, healing, and compassion. As spiritual leaders, Priests and Priestesses guide the faithful, lead sacred rituals, and offer wisdom to all who seek Menphina's light. They are the heart of the Temple, tending to the spiritual well-being of the community while embodying the grace and devotion of the Lover. Each member of the Priesthood brings their unique talents—whether in healing, divination, or other sacred practices—to serve Menphina and her flock, fostering an environment of warmth, acceptance, and solace.

Ascending from Priesthood to Prior/ess

Any member of the Priesthood who wishes to take on the role of Prior or Prioress, becoming a teacher and mentor to Disciples, may submit their request directly to the High Priestess. This opportunity is open to all Priests and Priestesses, though acceptance is at the discretion of the High Priestess. The decision will be based on several factors, including but not limited to: the current need for additional Priors, the candidate’s length of service within the Clergy and Priesthood, their involvement and standing within the community, and any unique skills or talents they may bring that are not currently represented among the Priors. Should the request be accepted, the aspiring Prior or Prioress will undergo a period of training with the High Priestess to learn the responsibilities of Leadership and the role of instructing Disciples.

Hound

The Hounds of the Temple of Menphina are the vigilant protectors of the Temple and its followers, dedicated to ensuring the safety and tranquility of all who seek solace within its walls. More than just guards, they embody the principles of honor, guardianship, and love, standing ready to defend the flock both physically and emotionally. With the strength of heart and spirit, Hounds serve as beacons of safety, their protection a reflection of Menphina’s own love and devotion. They are trusted allies, whether through watching over the Temple or stepping in to resolve conflicts with wisdom and compassion, ensuring the Temple remains a sanctuary for all.

Ascending from Hound to Hound Captain

Any Hound who wishes to become a Hound Captain may present their case to an existing Hound Captain. If there is a need for additional Captains, the candidate will be accepted as a Hound Lieutenant and will begin training under the guidance of the current Hound Captain(s). During this training, they will gain in-depth knowledge of the Temple's security protocols, the responsibilities of a Captain, and the methods for training Pups. When the training Captain feels the Lieutenant is ready to take on the role of Captain, they will notify the High Priestess. While the High Priestess typically trusts the judgment of the Captain, the final decision on whether the Lieutenant joins Leadership as a Captain rests with her.

Temple Leadership

Prior/ess

Priors and Prioresses are not only spiritual mentors but also leaders who help shape the Temple’s practices, rituals, and traditions. They are often seen presiding over important ceremonies, offering counsel, and leading prayers that call upon Menphina’s blessings. What sets them apart from the Priesthood is that they are directly responsible for training and guiding the Disciples, preparing them to carry the torch of faith and devotion.

As guardians of the Temple’s teachings, they maintain a balance between reverence for tradition and the need for personal growth, encouraging their fellow clergy to explore their unique connections to the Goddess while always upholding the sanctity of Menphina’s love.

Hound Captain

The Hound Captains of the Temple of Menphina stand as steadfast protectors of the flock, leading with strength, loyalty, and unwavering devotion to the safety of all who seek sanctuary within the Temple. As the commanders of the Hounds, they are charged with not only overseeing the daily duties of protection but also guiding the training of new Pups who aspire to take up the mantle of guardianship. Each Hound Captain exemplifies the values of kindness, understanding, and courage.

Under their leadership, the Hounds learn that protection is not just about the strength to defend but also about the wisdom to show compassion and mercy, even in times of darkness. In this way, Hound Captains are beacons of Menphina’s love, guiding their charges to protect the vulnerable and uphold the sanctity of the Temple.

Chaplain

The Chaplains are dedicated Clergy members who have taken on specialized roles in service to the Temple's continued well-being. Tasked with crucial responsibilities such as organizing events, managing outreach, or overseeing the Temple’s day-to-day operations, Chaplains are vital to the smooth functioning of the Temple. Though they hold leadership roles and are entrusted with significant duties, they remain humble servants of Menphina, committed to embodying Her teachings of love and compassion in all they do.

Regardless of their specific tasks, Chaplains are expected to follow the same path of growth and spiritual development as any other Clergy member. Whether they aspire to join the Priesthood or become a Hound, Chaplains honor the traditions of the Temple, upholding the values of Menphina while guiding the community with wisdom and care. Their service is a reflection of their devotion, ensuring that the Temple continues to flourish as a sanctuary of love and healing.

High Priestess

The High Priestess stands as the heart and soul of the sanctuary, chosen by the Lover herself to be the guiding light for all who seek solace within the Temple's sacred walls. She is the spiritual leader, the beacon through which Menphina’s love flows, illuminating the path for the faithful. The High Priestess is entrusted with interpreting Menphina's will, leading the faithful in prayer, rituals, and celebrations that honor the moonlit cycle. Her words carry the weight of wisdom and compassion, guiding both Clergy and Congregation alike toward deeper faith and connection to the divine.

Beyond her spiritual duties, the High Priestess is the steward of the Temple's mission, ensuring that it remains a sanctuary of love, healing, and protection. She works closely with those in Clergy who have accepted Leadership positions to foster unity within the Clergy, nurturing the growth of every member. Her leadership is not one of command, but of example—she leads with love, kindness, and a deep sense of duty to Menphina’s teachings. In all her actions, the High Priestess seeks to create a space where hearts are mended, and where all who come in search of peace may find themselves bathed in the loving light of the moon.

Our Current Leaders

Prioress Theia

Hound Captain Zoe

Chaplain Caer (Archivist)

Chaplain Joza (Congregation Liaison)

Chaplain Mahogany (Mentor Overseer)

Chaplain Sokurai (Event Coordinator)

Page updated

Google Sites

Report abuse