Neophyte Training

For those who feel called to serve Menphina, we offer a guided training path to prepare you for your chosen role. Whether you wish to serve as a loyal Hound, a compassionate Priest or Priestess, or remain a dedicated Acolyte, there are a few steps to complete first. This training is designed to ensure that everyone joining our community understands what we do, what we stand for, and how we serve within the Temple.

The training is simple and focused, helping new members (our Neophytes) learn the basics of the Temple’s structure and values, while guiding them along the path that best fits their aspirations with us.

Step One: Discord Tour

A small but essential part of our community is using Discord for out-of-character (OOC) communication. Shortly after joining, each new Neophyte will be paired with a Mentor, who will guide them through our Discord’s basic structure and many features. This includes learning where to find key information, such as our website, discussions, and other resources. Neophytes will also be shown how to read the roles and identify Mentors, Leadership, Clergy, and Congregation members.

During this orientation, we’ll also go over our OOC guidelines and how we expect Clergy to conduct themselves respectfully on Discord, even when out of character.

This may be conducted via text of voice chat, depending on the Mentor and Neophyte's comfort.

At this time, the Neophyte will be instructed to prepare their uniform and schedule an in character meeting with their mentor.

Step Two: Uniform Check and Temple Tour

The first in-character step of a Neophyte’s journey in the Temple is a meeting with their Mentor at the Temple. During this meeting, the Mentor will cover the Temple’s IC rules and expectations. Another key focus of this meeting is the Neophyte’s uniform. The Mentor will review the uniform options the Neophyte has prepared and provide feedback: if the uniform is acceptable, the Mentor will highlight what’s been done well and move forward. If adjustments are needed, the Mentor will explain what needs changing and work with the Neophyte to ensure they understand the uniform guidelines.

Once the uniform is approved, the Mentor will lead the Neophyte on a tour of the Temple’s main areas to help them learn the layout and guide future patrons effectively. At the end of the tour, the Neophyte will receive a welcome package with dye for their uniforms. The Mentor will also answer any questions the Neophyte might have.

If the Neophyte’s uniform isn’t approved at the first check, they can resubmit for approval OOC through Discord with any available Mentor. However, they must have an approved uniform before signing up for worship services or progressing further in training. Please remember that all Clergy are required to be in uniform during most official gatherings, both with and without mods.

Step Three: Mentor Shadowing

The next step for the Neophyte is to spend at least one gathering shadowing an available Mentor. This shadowing can take different forms—sometimes the Neophyte might follow the Mentor, observing how they interact with others, while at other times, the Neophyte may take the lead, with the Mentor offering support and guidance as needed. The main goal is for the Neophyte to experience a full service night under the guidance of a Mentor.

Remember, it’s normal to feel a bit nervous on your first night! The expectations can feel intense, but don’t hesitate to rely on your Mentor for help and reassurance—they’re there to support you.

After the shadowing, the Mentor will prepare a quick evaluation. This isn’t a pass-or-fail assessment; it’s simply an overview of how the Neophyte interacted and handled their duties, along with any helpful feedback or encouragement. The full Mentor team is available for guidance and to answer any questions.

Once the Mentor and Neophyte have reviewed this feedback, either IC or OOC, the Neophyte is officially cleared to continue with the final steps of their training at their own pace. If they ever feel uncertain or need extra support, Neophytes are always welcome to reach out to a Mentor or request additional shadowing nights.

Step Four: One Full Service

An Acolyte is expected to be able to handle their duties independently, without needing a Mentor by their side. To be promoted from Neophyte to Acolyte, a Neophyte must demonstrate this readiness by completing a full night of service alone, without assistance from a Mentor. While a Mentor will be present to observe how the Neophyte manages on their own, they will not step in or provide help.

After this solo night, the Neophyte is almost ready for promotion! As long as the Mentor observes no major issues and the Neophyte completes the full service, they’ll be considered prepared for the role of Acolyte. It’s completely normal to feel nervous or unsure—perfection isn’t the goal. This night simply shows that the Neophyte is ready to start their journey as an Acolyte, with the confidence to grow and develop in their own way.

Step Five: Rules & Expectations Quiz

At any time during their training, a Neophyte may take the Rules and Expectations Quiz. This is considered the final step, as it’s best completed after the Neophyte has gone through all other parts of their training.

The quiz is available on our Discord, where the Neophyte can complete it at their own pace. Once submitted, the Mentor team will review the answers.

To pass, the Neophyte must score at least 70%. If any questions are missed, a Mentor will go over them to clarify. Should the Neophyte not pass, they can retake the quiz after a one-week waiting period.

Ascension to Acolyte

Once a Neophyte has successfully completed all steps of their training, they will receive a Ring of Promise. This ring represents their commitment to Menphina and their dedication to carrying forward all they’ve learned in her name.

Mentor Check-List

This is a quick reference check list for any Mentor who is working with a Neophyte:

Step One: Discord Tour

Review of OOC Rules
Review of important channels:
- - rules-and-info
  - roles
  - announcements
  - clergy-announcements
  - clergy-info
  - clergy-chat
  - neophyte-chat
  - expectations-quiz
  - ws-sign-ups
  - event-planning
Review of how to view roles & role meanings
Review of OOC Clergy Expectations
Quick review of Uniform
Schedule IC meeting for uniform check & Temple tour
Document when completed

Step Two: Temple Tour

Review of Acolyte's chosen uniform
Review of IC rules
Tour of the Temple
Care package given
Document when completed
Follow up in game or on discord if uniform needs adjustment

Step Three: Mentor Shadowing

Schedule gathering where you and Neophyte can both attend - OR - where they can attend with another mentor.
Provide examples and advice throughout the evening.
Write an assessment of the Neophytes performance, including both areas to improve and areas that they did well in.
Document when completed

Step Four: One Full Service

If you or another mentor are not able to work, ensure that you communicate with the evenings Officiate that a Neophyte will be working their first solo shift.
Document when the shift is complete.
Speak to the Neophyte if any notable concerns arose.

Step Five: Rules & Expectation Quiz

Review completed quiz.
Talk to Neophyte about any missed questions.
If Neophyte did not pass, instruct them to try again in 1 week.
Document when Neophyte passes.

Ascension to Acolyte

Meet with Neophyte in game to gift them their Ring of Promise.

Page updated

Google Sites

Report abuse