Temple

From MeiLinWiki

A Temple is a religious institution in An Intimate History of the Greater Kingdom, dedicated to the worship of a god or goddess. Each Temple as an institution is led by a High Priest of the corresponding god or goddess, with the exception of the Lovers' Temple, which is dedicated to the twin deities of The Lovers and therefore led by both a High Priest of Nerr and a High Priestess of Neya.

In addition to being places of religious worship, Temples also provide services to the population in accordance with the responsibilities of their god or goddess.

The upkeep of Temples is paid by the fees of devotees and petitioners, tithe, and state taxes. Some of that money goes directly to the temple staff, who get a very modest monthly stipend. Otherwise all their needs are attended to by the Temple. When they retire they are cared for by the Temple. If they leave the Temple, they're given clothes and enough money for a week's room and board.

Temple staff come from all social classes. The commonality is that most are second, third and fourth children, not eldest. It's a financial hardship for families to lose oldest children to the Temple; they're expected to support their parents in old age and take over family businesses.