 "Puck", Patron of the Intheist Church. (As depicted by Brian Froud) |
Intheism
What is Intheism?
- Literally, "God-Within" -- "God", however you understand the term, can be found by looking within, and it is our duty to make the attempt
- God-within expresses itself most clearly through the act of creation, whether it be by a socially-recognized artform or something more subtle, or a mystic cha-cha.
What are the Principles of Intheism?
"Breakout" -- a striving to free oneself from programming, labeling and categories that one did not choose for oneself.
"Syn" -- Short for syncretism: the combining of seemingly disparate elements (but not so disparate if one practices "Breakout")to achieve new, synergystic results.
What are the lifegoals of Intheists?
- Harm None. This is expressed in many ways in many religions. Among Intheists, it is important to note that this includes "Judge none".
- Celebrate ceaselessly. Create ceaselessly. Pursue the Indwelling Divine ceaselessly. Note that these are one and the same.
- Take hold of your own programming. Let your expression of the Divine infect all parts of your life.
- Be patient with yourself and others -- you are on a path, so focus on the path. The destination will come closer to you as you continue journeying.
Are there clergy?
- If all contain God, then all are Clergy, or representatives of God on Earth -- though not all are called to a path that includes adopting a clerical rôle.
- Titles: Godbrother, Godsister, Godcousin
- Duties: Support those whose creations are part of their divine work (defined purely by intent); Exeplify the Lifegoals; Work to create and maintain Safe Havens for those inneed; Educate
- Clergy must self-identify, so they may be easily found by those in need. A sash or scarf bearing the twin symbols ("Breakout" and "Syn") should serve admirably.
Is there a liturgy?
None required by Intheist teaching, but local cells may choose to adopt a liturgical style based on the religious background of the members. There is nothing that prevents an Intheist from following any religion -- though some may require some serious doctrinal debate to co-thingie.