Objectionism is a religious movement that arose as a response to the perceived corruption and decadence within the Vaticine Church. Founded in 1517 by the monk Mattias Lieber, Objectionism quickly spread across Théah, challenging the Church's authority and reshaping the religious landscape. Though it shares some core beliefs with the Vaticine Church, Objectionism introduced key doctrinal differences that emphasize direct, personal relationship with the Creator, free from mediation of Church authorities.
Origins of the Movement[]
The seeds of Objectionism were planted in Octavius of 1517 when the 28-year-old Mattias Lieber nailed a list of questions to the door of his Bishop's church. While such postings were not unusual for monks wishing to discuss theological topics, Lieber's document was different. It criticized Church authority, demanded widespread reform, and called for a fundamental shift in Vaticine philosophy. Lieber confronted the Church leadership directly, demanding an explanation "for the Church's inexcusable crimes and decadence".
The Hierophant, the highest authority in the Vaticine Church, responded by excommunicating Lieber and demanding his execution. However King Franz II of Eisen provided Lieber with protection, allowing him to escape Castille and return to his homeland. From there, Lieber used the newly invented printing press to spread his ideas. He translated the Book of the Prophets into Low Eisen, making religious texts accessible to the common people. As a result, Objectionism took root in Eisen and rapidly spread to the far corners of Théah.
Philosophy and Beliefs[]
Objectionism shares many core tenets with the Vaticine Church but rejects the idea that the Church can act as an intermediary between Theus (the Creator) and humanity. Its primary philosophical difference lies in its emphasis on a direct relationship with the Divine:
- Direct Connection to Theus. Objectionism teaches that Theus is everywhere and does not require human institutions to interpret His Will. No one, not even a priest, can interpose or "filter" the Creator's teachings. Thus, individuals must appeal directly to Theus for absolution and guidance.
- Rejection of Church Authority. In contrast to the Vaticine Church, which claims the power to absolve sins and perform miracles, Objectionism asserts that only Theus can perform these acts. The Church can facilitate worship and community, but it holds no absolute authority over Theus or His teachings.
- Living the Faith. Objectionism encourages its followers to read the Book of the Prophets and live by its teachings. Believers express their faith through charity, hard work, and helping those in need, embodying Theus's grace in their daily lives. This contrasts with the rituals and hierarchical control that characterize the Vaticine Church.
Organizational Structure[]
While the structure of the Objectionist Reform loosely mirrors that of the Vaticine Church, it has fewer ranks and wields less centralized authority.
- Chaplains. Individual priests within Objectionism who oversee single churches. They cannot absolve sins or declare heresies; their primary role is to lead by example and guide their congregations.
- Deacons. Senior chaplains are each responsible for coordinating the activities of twenty churches.
- Apostles. The highest rank in Objectionist clergy oversee the movement's efforts across entire provinces or nations. There are twenty-five apostles in total, each considered equal with no one holding authority over another. Apostles are elected by the deacons, who can also remove them from office through a vote of no confidence.
Unlike the Vaticine Church, Objectionism has no dioceses, bishops, or Hierophant. It eliminates the need for elaborate rituals, such as fasts, pilgrimages, and miracles. Baptisms occur at age seven without an exam requirement. Chaplains are also expected to work in universities and hospitals, contributing to society's betterment rather than focusing solely on spiritual duties.
Spread and Influence[]
Objectionism began in Eisen and quickly gained popularity, particularly among those disillusioned with the Vaticine Church's excesses. Despite fierce opposition from the Church, the movement spread across Théah, ultimately dividing the continent between Vaticine and Objectionist faiths.
- Eisen. The birthplace of Objectionism, Eisen is now predominantly Objectionist. Although a few Vaticine strongholds remain, the nation's exhaustion from the War of the Cross has led many to abandon traditional religion altogether. Today, the people of Eisen prioritize national unity over religious differences, fighting together against the Horrors that plague their land.
- Vestenmennavenjar. The Vesten embraced Objectionism and support the construction of impressive churches and universities, including the Mestkirk, a massive cathedral project drawing attention from across Théah. This towering structure rivals even the grand cathedrals of Montaigne and is a symbol of Objectionist strength and devotion.
- Avalon. Objectionists have found a foothold in Avalon, where they challenge the divine authority claimed by Queen Elaine and the Old Gods. The movement promotes a personal connection with Theus, independent of the church or any monarch.
- The Highland Marches. The Objectionist Movement arrived nearly a decade ago, adding to the region's complex religious landscape. Though tensions exist, the Marches have adopted a relatively tolerant attitude toward varying beliefs.
Despite its spread, Objectionism faces fierce opposition in some regions. In Castille, where the Vaticine Church remains powerful, Objectionists are regarded as traitors and heretics. The Inquisition actively targets them, and those who hold Objectionist beliefs must practice their faith in secrecy to avoid persecution.
Role in the War of the Cross[]
The rise of Objectionism played a significant role in igniting the War of the Cross, a thirty-year conflict that engulfed Théah. The war began as an internal struggle in Eisen between Vaticine loyalists and Objectionists. The conflict eventually expanded, drawing in other nations and leaving deep scars on the continent. Despite the war's end, the religious divide persists, with many regions remaining steadfastly Objectionist or Vaticine.
Variants and Offshoots[]
Though more unified in its rejection of centralized Church authority, Objectionism has given rise to various offshoots. One of the most extreme is the Realists, who not only reject sorcery, as stated in the Book of the Prophets, but deny the existence of magic altogether. Realists argue that magic is a collective hallucination, willed into existence by those who believe in it. They advocate that only by ceasing to believe in such nonsense can its influence be eradicated from the world.
Current Status[]
Today, Objectionism remains a powerful force in Théah's religious landscape. Despite the persecution it faces, especially from the Inquisition, the movement continues to draw followers who seek a more personal, direct relationship with Theus. In places like Eisen and Vestenmannavenjar, it thrives openly, while in others, like Castille, it survives in secret. Its emphasis on charity, knowledge, and self-reliance resonates with those disillusioned by Vaticine hierarchy and corruption.
The divide between Vaticines and Objectionists persists, and while outright warfare has ceased, the struggle for religious influence continues to shape Théah's society, politics, and culture. The legacy of Mattias Lieber endures, and Objectionism stands as a testament to the power of questioning established authority in the pursuit of spiritual truth.