Re: Social Cult Ranks or Devotees vs Initiates

From: Tim Ellis <tim_at_...>
Date: Thu, 06 Jan 2005 16:40:03 -0000

wrote:
> >
> Think of it this way. A Catholic priest of no particular
distinction
> has within his congregation a highly-regarded theologian and
charity
> worker, who has had an audience with the Pope, worked with Mother
> Theresa, etc. The priest may feel rather jealous of this 'devotee'
> but either way, he will probably show a degree of respect, even
> deference towards him. I'd imagine the views of the 'devotee'
would
> be taken very seriously. However, while that 'devotee' has
> _influence_ and _moral authority_, he has no right to _command_
the
> priest in any way.
>
> Likewise other 'initiates' within the congregation. They may look
up
> to the 'devotee' but he cannot tell them what to do -- and,
> ultimately, it is the priest who will lead the mass and hear their
> confessions.
>

or, indeed, to stretch your analogy to breaking point, neither could Mother Theresa command Catholics, be they "communal worshipers", "initiates" (Altar boys?) or any other rank within the church. If she could have done, her charity work might have been a lot easier! She could appeal to them and lead by example, and so many people would follow her lead, at least some of the time or in some way, and this is equally true in Glorantha. When it comes time to plough the fields, the Barntar Devotee will probably be able to persuade most of the local Orlanthi to follow his lead, and do what he advises - but once it gets to the time of the summer cattle raids then the Finovan Initiate will be looked to more, even if his "cultic rank" (if there is such a thing)is less.