Priesthood

The priestly order of Stella Maris is both spiritual and a maritime institution. Priests aboard Velorian ships serve as navigators of faith—blessing voyages, interpreting omens in the waves, and performing rites to appease the goddess. Their presence is considered essential for safe passage, and many captains refuse to sail without one. On land, priests devote themselves to long hours of prayer, ritual fasting, and the study within temple sanctums. While marriage is not forbidden, the demands of priestly life—especially in cities and naval service—make it rare outside of small coastal villages, where duties are lighter and faith is woven into daily life.

Notable priests of Stella Maris include @Thomas Langton , @Sister Nimue , @Sister Lucia , @Anselm XI, Potentate of Veloria.

Requirements for Ordination

To become a priest of Stella Maris, one must be observed and recommended by an existing priest. Priests are often required to serve along side a sea chaplain on a ship for a certain period of time before ordination (For example, @Thomas Langton served for five months aboard the merchant ship Vigilant Grace). If service at sea is not possible, a rigorous ritual of prayer that lasts months may be required. Many priests, especially from smaller communities, are former sailors. In cases like this, the requirements for serving as sea chaplains may be considered met.

Types of Clergy

Most Priests

Most priests of Stella Maris are not required to alter their names or take up a particular prefix. Many priests, especially those serving on ships and local communities, will be called "chaplain" or "port chaplain". They dawn @Robes of Stella Maris and often have a @Staff of Stella Maris .

Monastic Orders

Clergy foregoing their former lives to dedicate themselves to strict fasting and prayer in small monastic communities usually forego their given surnames and take up the prefix "Brother" or "Sister."

Chamber Clergy

Chamber clergy are priests and priestesses that work within the walls of the @Chamber of Stella Maris in Veloria's capitol. They serve unique and difficult roles as both spiritual minister and secular ministers, serving the church-state duality of the Velorian government. The demanding work requirements and rigorous prayer is much more akin to a monastic life. Chamber Clergy are called "Sister" and "Brother" and they forgo their former surnames. @Sister Lucia and @Sister Nimue are examples of Chamber clergy. @Brother Rasmus is also Chamber clergy, who has been sent out into the world on a rare pilgramage.

Potentate

The austere Priest-King of Veloria takes up an entirely new name upon ascension to the throne. Usually this name is picked from scripture or names past Potentates. @Anselm XI, Potentate of Veloria is the current Potentate.