NationStates Jolt Archive

Friends in Christ...today Christ has conquered death and redeemed all by his blood. This is resurrection day! The climax of the Triduum and our faith…..there is no happier time for us as a people, for our Lord is risen! The work of the cross is complete !! Sing my tongue of the saviors glory! Of his flesh the mystery sing!
Yet here , in this most holy Chistian land where the cross is said to rule , injustice and cruelty reigns supreme and the message of cross and its eternal salvation is perverted by bigotry and fascism…..
How can we call ourselves a Christian people while we deny the blessing of Christ to so many! We blaspheme when we set ourselves apart and make division between ourselves and the so called ‘meta-humans'
Yes my friends in Christ…I say to you today Christ died not just for you….
But all!
The work of the cross was shed for all men and for all salvation was won! At the very institution of the Eucharist it was for all! To make division between man and any metahuman is sin and against the very work of Christ! Did Christ not demand we love our Neighbor? Is Christ not the bread of life broken for all? For did not our father God create us all and give unto us the mantel of free will? Do not even Elves freely do good or chose evil?
By the very name ‘metahuman' we acknowledge them as brother but by our actions we treat them as animals, much as in the way once were treated slaves and blacks!
I say to you, the metahuman is bestowed the same dignity and humanity by God as we are, and by the holy Roman faith we must defend and uphold their rights! (catechism 1930),
In our holy fathers Encyclical letter Evangelium Vitae he spoke of respect for all life…that we must be a people of the light and follow Gods holy law... not mans law!
We are a people of life because God has, in his unconditional love, has given us the Gospel of life …That is the heart of Jesus' message….and as Christ hung on the tree and welcomed the thieve into paradise so we must, as a Christian community , welcome all whom God loves!
Today Brothers and sisters in Christ, Embrace the gospel of life! Embrace Gods law and reject the violence of Cain! …we are one in the Spirit with all of Gods creation by the glory of his resurrection…let us honour that by living as a resurrected people…a people who hold Christ's law in their hearts and love all of his Children.

Cardinal Patrick McCullum
Easter Homily-Easter Sunday
Broadcast over T.V and Radio

:D the PRKS thanks you for such an enlightened message.

A message of peace from IC? Wow!

OOC: that name sounds suspiciously like a certain person we here in Boston just had assigned to us....

otherwise :shock: :shock: :shock:

In the Thelasi government, which was small at the time because most every one was at Easter Mass, a responce was sent from Minister Ramerthin,

"We are surprised at this sudden show of.... peace comming from a land that for a long time has been a place of bigotry. We are happy that our Christian Brothers in Iesus Christi have finally come around to see that we elves, cathumans, and other races, are Brothers in Christ to the people of Iesus Christi.

We extend an open invitation to Cardinal Patrick McCullum to visit Thelas, it would be a pleasure for Commander Kentherin, himself a Roman Catholic, to meet this man who is spreading a message of conciliation in Iesus Christi."

Thankyou very much.
A very inspiring and thought-provoking meditation.

We urge ? Matthew ? (OOC: that is your leader's name right? I can't seem to remember his title or last name) to not punish this clergyman for speaking his opinions.- Feline Foreign Ministry

-------------

A well-spoken dialogue in support of the compassion all God's creatures must have for one-another. The Feline branch of the Roman Catholic Church invites this man to speak at a mass here sometime.- Feline Roman Catholic Church.

Archbishop Heinz Wittmar moved to the pulpit following the opening hymns in the Cathedral of the Archangels and spoke in his still resonant voice.
"Blessings to you all. Today we are celebrating the resurrection of our Lord Jesus Christ. As we are filled with joy with a renewed sense of the promise of our own resurrection, so I hope that you will remember something about the followers of Christ who came before us, long ago.
When Jesus came into Jerusalem on what we now celebrate as Palm Sunday, he was expected to physically become the Messiah, the new ruler of Israel, throw off the Roman shackles and restore the Temple to glory. But instead he was villified by the Sanhedrin and crucified. His followers fled into hiding in terror, even those most close to him, the eleven who remained of the twelve. It seemed it was all over--that Christ's promise of a better world had come to an end.
And yet He rose from the dead, and ascended into Heaven, with promise and blessing left behind, and this command: that his followers should spread His gospel throughout the world.
And leaving this lesson among others. It may seem that all is lost, that good cannot prevail, and that darkness overwhelms us. But our faith must lie in the hope that it will not, and that the light, the truth, that goodness will triumph.
This is our hope in Christ Jesus. Let us re-affirm that, that we believe in the truth of His Word, and that His Church will triumph over the powers and principalities of Darkness."

The Empire of Monotonous Malarchy, would like to say.....BULL PLOP!!! Its all BULL PLOP!!!!. Since my people have become enlightened to the fact the religion is a big sham we are a much happier society.

This was not done by force it was a community sponsored initiative to prove the existence of god/allah, or whothey all worshipped. In the end all the tests and studies, which took 25 yrs, came back inconclusivie. Encouraging my people, who if i may add are very intellegent, to denounce all religion as farce and concentrate on worshipping the one thing they could depend on. The almighty dollar.

We are a much happier and civil society because of it.

<<Pilgrimage plug>>

We invite any pilgrims in Jeruselem to visit the Church of Holy Sepulchre where the tomb of Jesus Christ is.

http://www.birzeit.edu/palnews/sepulchre/images/plan.jpg

OOC:W00t.

Sure I'll come and see Jesus :)

*sprinkles everyone with Eastery Goodness!*

(Which I have a large bottle of) :D

*Hops away*

OOC: Hey look! A drunken wabbit!

OOC

Jesus Christ, drunk rabbits with chocolate eggs.
What is the world coming to!
:o

Umm...wasn't the celebration of Easter enforced by Constantine after a pagan holiday?
I think the same thing can be said of Christmas....

Eastry Goodnes iz non-alcholik!

*Stumbles away*

OOC: Hmmm..I thought Matty had permanently lost 'net access....

On behalf of the SeOCC Interfaith Fellowship, I applaud the address of Cardinal McCullum, and I feel hope that this represents a new voice in Iesus Christi, among our brothers and sisters in the Book.

Too long have divisions of this mortal world, created by man, in our own flawed image, kept us from the true brotherhood of all living things. God's law, as the Cardinal points out, is one of love and inclusion, not of death and discrimination. I pray the spirit continues to move Cardinal McCullum and his followers, and will speak to many across the world to cast aside their prejudice and veils of hatred, and allow the true Word into their hearts.

Luther Brechen
SeOCC Interfaith Fellowship

also...

The Minister of Politics extends to Cardinal Patrick McCullum, should he require it, asylum from political or religious persecution. This is an unconditional standing offer.

MoP Frontdesk

http://users.otenet.gr/~laba1/anastasis.jpg

OOC: Triple Alleluia!
Iesus is back on NS
A Iesus Christi person said something good
Solid proof that you don't have to be a Melkor-loving fascist in order to be a conservative Catholic.

God bless,

The Republic of Syskeyia

George Carlin in Dogma:

"Christ didn't come down to give us the willies!"

From today's homily by Bishop F.X. Mangunvijaya:

"As Christ rose, he banished injustice. Christ never shied away from confronting power: he spoke for the poor, the marginalized, those longing to be free. Cast out himself, he exalted those who are cast out. Risen, he redeemed us all.

"Those who seek to imitate Christ walk in the world today. Look to the examples, not all of them Christian: Mahatma Gandhi, Aung San Suu Kyi, Martin Luther King, Dorothy Day, Nelson Mandela, so many others. Cardinal McCullum of Iesus Christi is such a man: speaking for those who are despised in his country, declaring himself opposed ot injustice, like Christ among the money changers. For him, too, we pray."

For 50 years genocide has been the way of the Iesus government!
From Metahumans to jews, Iesus Christi has killed the Children of God...we have for to long ignored the crimes of our nation..we can no longer be a people of the darkness! we cannot remain silent!
Christ has risen! the Exhultet has been sung! For God sake....LIVE THE WORDS OF CHRIST!
Cardinal Patrick McCullum - Words to ICN reporter shortly after Vigil mass

The Exhultet
Rejoice, heavenly powers! Sing, choirs of angels! Exult, all creation around God's throne! Jesus Christ, our King, is risen! Sound the trumpet of salvation!

Rejoice, O earth, in shining splendor, radiant in brightness of your King! Christ has conquered! Glory fills you! Darkness vanishes for ever!

Rejoice, O Mother Church! Exult in glory! The risen Saviour shines upon you! Let this place resound with joy, echoing the mighty song of all God's people!

My dearest friends, standing with me in this holy light, join me in asking God for mercy, that he may give his unworthy minister grace to sing his Easter praises.

It is truly right that with full hearts and minds and voices we should praise the unseen God, the all-powerful Father, and his only Son, our Lord Jesus Christ.

For Christ has ransomed us with his blood, and paid for us the price of Adam's sin to our eternal Father!

This is our passover feast, when Christ, the true Lamb, is slain, whose blood consecrates the homes of all believers.

This is the night when first you saved our fathers: you freed the people of Israel from their slavery and led them dry-shod through the sea.

This is the night when the pillar of fire destroyed the darkness of sin.

This is the night when Christians everywhere, washed clean of sin and freed from all defilement, are restored to grace and grow together in holiness.

This is the night when Jesus Christ broke the chains of death and rose triumphant from the grave.

What good would life have been to us, had Christ not come as our Redeemer?

Father, how wonderful your care for us! How boundless your merciful love! To ransom a slave you gave away your Son.

O Happy fault, O necessary sin of Adam, which gained for us so great a Redeemer!

Most blessed of all nights, chosen by God to see Christ rising from the dead!

Of this night scripture says: "The night will be as clear as day: it will become my light, my joy."

The power of this holy night dispels all evil, washes guilt away, restores lost innocence, brings mourners joy; it casts out hatred, brings us peace, and humbles earthly pride.

Night truly blessed when heaven is wedded to earth and men and women are reconciled with God!

Therefore, heavenly Father, in the joy of this night, receive our evening sacrifice of praise, your Church's solemn offering.

Accept this Easter candle, a flame divided but undimmed, a pillar of fire that glows to the honor of God.

Let it mingle with the lights of heaven and continue bravely burning to dispel the darkness of this night!

May the Morning Star which never sets find this flame still burning: Christ, that Morning Star, who came back from the dead, and shed his peaceful light on all the world, your Son who lives and reigns for ever and ever.

Amen.

--------------------------------------------------------
Algemene Inlichtingen en Veiligheids Dienst
Knootian Intelligence
--------------------------------------------------------

"They are still religious freaks!", grunted the Knootian chief of intelligence / Metus as he turned off the television.

"But Sir... this sounds considerably less adversarial." commented a young aide with newbish features. "Maybe they are nice Christians now like the... the...”

"Syskeyians?", the ChiefIntel replied sarcastically. "They don't bloody fool me. If Ambassador Herben isn't dead by now he is still being held captive. While they claim to 'mingle with the lights of heaven' there have been no concrete political promises whatsoever."

"I want to go there. Maybe there has been change. This is an opportunity Heinz... I mean, Sir!" The younger Knootian was insisting about it. "And think about it, our intelligence on them has been sketchy in the last years. Maybe we... I could get to see some..."

"No. Not now."

OOC: YAY! *wubs*

Lady Tanya opened her mouth, then closed it again. "...what?" she asked after a while.

The Foriegn Minister shrugged. "Apparently a senior cleric in Iesus Christi has spoken out."

"So he has the life expectancy of a snowball in sub-Saharan Afirca?"

The Minister chuckled. "Well put, my Lady. But he has a high standing; a public figure of some import. The international community knows about him. I don't know if Iesus can really make him vanish without causing a lot opf questions..."

Tanya shook her head. "Iesus Christi gunned down foriegn lawyers on international TV."

"So what do we do?"

"We sit and wait. And release a statement praising this man as a pious hero."

Doctor Comedy shook his head wryly as the Cardinal's voice crackled through his rather elderly radio.

Superstitious primitives!

"This isn't going to last..." Darius, enforcer of Catharsis smiled, shaking his head, "Iesus Christi isn't going to pull the wool over our eyes, it must be an Easter thing to get metahumans to drop their guards, that much genocidal evil doesn't just go away..." Darius turned off the television and walked over to the window of his ship, spying earth from space. He didn't believe that nonsense for a moment.

http://img6.photobucket.com/albums/v19/BrianJ/Darius.jpg
Darius, Enforcer of Catharsis

The Omars and the people of North Star extend a happy easter to the people of Iesus Christi.
~The Sultans office~

-

"He mentioned the "g' word!!!" Bridgette screamed at the gathered intelligence officers "How dare he ...how dare he! Who does he think he is! Hmmmmm"
" a prince of the Holy Roman catholic Church?" ventured a younger ISB officer
"I don't care if he's the second coming! I want him dead! Over! Gone! Hung his body from his churches steeple!"
General Smith leant forward "while you're plan has many merits my Lord, I believe considering this mans status we may reap ill wind if we openly arrest him...he is a Cardinal of the mother church...Perhaps a less direct approach would work better...strike around the problem."
Bridgette growled "Bah...but perhaps you have a point. Deal with this matter how you see fit but deal with it quickly . I want my pound of flesh for this mans outrage"
Smith saluted " as you command, noble leader"

Robard had given his instructions directly to Inquisitor Alan Calvert and now Calvert proceeded to carry it out with earnest intent.

Father Paul celebrated mass that morning at the cathedral for a reasonable crowd for a 7am service.
With joy Father Paul sung...
"Through him, with him, in him, with the unity of the holy spirit, Glory and honour are yours almighty Father...forever and ever! A..."
Before the amen could be sung, from the back of the congregation two men rushed forward, pulling pistols as they stormed forward into the santury.
The church echoed as they shot down the celebrating priest, ending his life in a hail of bullets....

Calvert personally lead the troopers into the chapel of the sacred heart.
The shocked small group of priests were too stunned to even comprehend what was happening
"by order of the Lord Inquisitor,you're under arrest for treason.."

By Order of The Lord Inquisitor
Due to anti government and anti God activities carried out by a small minority of people hiding within religious households and communities, the government has no choice but to order the restriction of travel for clergy and religious until the violent pretender minority is apprehended.
We pray for the cooperation of the holy church and of our Cardinal-Patrick McCullum in this time of crisis and national emergency...with us all working as a united people God will surely grant mercy...even to those currently suspected of treason

In Iesus we trust
General Robard Smith

Christo Duce!

For the political leaders of Iesus Christi, that they might find compassion and mercy and wisdom, and heed the words of God's church, we pray to the Lord.

Lord, hear our prayer.

"It's a trick," said Lady Bryce, rolling her eyes theatrically. "Iesus Christi thinks the world is stupid."

The Cabinet of the Chimaean Government nodeed almost in unison. "Quite right," replied the Foriegn Minister. "And soon this man is going to be portrayed as a terrorist or something and taken somewhere underground and shot. Or worse."

There was a moment's awkward silence as they all thought about it.

"So what's our policy going to be?" asked the Defence Minister.

Lady Bryce shrugged. "We're not going to play along with this. It doesn't matter whether or not we do anything physical or direct, we don't have to play along. Everyone knows that this is a trick. It's Iesus Christi, for heaven's sake... If it isn't a trick then there's been a revolution."

There were a few wry chuckles from the group.

------------------------

Fellow nations of the international community,

I ask that you do not believe everything that is told to you by the Iesus Christi propaganda machine. We have all wittnessed their duplicity and their scheming, their endless human rights abuse and the see-through iron-curtain they like to put across their decidedly un-Christian, Hitlerian activities.

Chimaea believes that Cardinal McCullum is in mortal danger, and that he may be framed on whatever trumped-up charges Iesus Christi choses this time. On past record, people preaching peace and goodwill in the Reich have gone missing or turned up dead. Perhaps Iesus Christi will find another way of shutting up the Cardinal, but free speech will die a horrible death yet again.

~Lady Bryce,
Governor of Chimaea

First quintannual plenum of Freebodnik unified congress; 2100/04/15; 241,350 communities voting; national situational referendum pending approval (CURRENT TOTAL: 1.5 million YEA, 1.32 million NAY); preliminary plebiscite issued at 2.6 million YEA, 1.14 NAY, reads:

/~First Speaker: Ndele 365-7100:
-----------------------------------------------------------------

Speaking upon behalf of the Quintannual Plenum of the Freebodnik Unified Congress:

I offer this modest PRELIMINARY PLEBISCITE regarding the recent actions of the sovereign nation of Iesus Christi, dated 2100/04/11. Being an initial plebiscite, the official STATEMENT is pending.

In initial regards to the actions taken by the nation of Iesus Christi, dated 2100/04/11 (EASTER, Christian Holiday), we, the assembled, of the quintannual plenum of the Freebodnik Unified Congress, do offer a modest censure of the violations undetaken in Iesus Christi, which appear to be in direct contest to Article 18 of the United Nations Declaration of Rights (dated 1948/12/10), which cites:

... Everyone has the right to freedom of thought, conscience and religion; this right includes freedom to change his religion or belief, and freedom, either alone or in community with others and in public or private, to manifest his religion or belief in teaching, practice, worship and observance. ...

As such we would like to voice our outspoken disapproval of the actions taken by the former against universal freedom of religion.

--------------------

Cardinal Patrick handed around the pieces of paper and as he did so he spoke softly
"my brother bishops...I believe matters have come to a point our silence is no longer acceptable. I have therefore drafted this letter to be read at the end of mass this coming Sunday....I would like you all to sign it and pass it onto your respected diocesan priests. "
The cardinal took his seat at the head of the table
"With how the situation is....I'll understand if you or our priests refuse to read it to your congregations..I myself wasn't sure if this was the right thing to do...Father Paul lies dead and already 12 of our brother priests are ‘held' at the governments mercy and I fear by speaking out they will be but the first to die ....'treason' charges are easy to manufacture here...
This weighs heavily on my mind but we cannot be held hostage !
Our silence will be consent to greater crimes both past, present and future....
Still..I will not force this dangerous path on any of you..I leave the choice to each of you and you must leave the choice to each of your priests..."
Cardinal McCullum rose and left the seated bishops with the document

Brothers and Sisters of Iesus Christi
In thinking of Iesus Christi, I sometimes find myself admiring her bright blue sky...her grand old woods...her fertile fields...her beautiful rivers...her mighty lakes and star-crowned mountains. But my rapture is soon checked when I remember that all is cursed with the infernal spirit of slavery, despotism, bigotry and hatred. When I remember that with the waters of her noblest rivers, the tears of my brethren are borne to the ocean, disregarded and forgotten, That her most fertile fields drink daily of the warm blood of my outraged sisters, I am filled with unutterable loathing....
Loathing for a nation that has so perverted the cross into a tool of hate, oppression and anger...
We are not a catholic nation...we are worse than any land of so called ‘pagans' for we pervert and bring shame to all Christ is !
We are not a Christian people as long as we allow despotism and hatred to be the law of the land...as long as we hate metahumans, as long as we deny the rights of others, along as we rejoice in barbarity...we are NOT followers of Christ and we deserve not his compassion...
Let us therefore reject the gospel of violence offered to us by our government and embrace the true meaning of the cross..
We place this pray before Mary Queen of heaven-intercede for us Queen of peace
through Christ our Lord
Amen

Cardinal Patrick McCullum.

Bishop John calmly read the Cardinals message to the gathered congregation at the close of mass. He couldn't quite pick the mood of the people as they left. He was sure they'd be hell to pay but John was sure also that Cardinal Patrick was right...

hail christ...in whose name more blood has been spilled than in all other wars combined... hail christ....in whose name the most barbarous means of torture were devised... hail christ.... NEVER

First quintannual plenum of Freebodnik Unified Congress; 2100/04/16; 24,350 communities voting; national situational referendum approved at 3.4 million YEA to 1.6 million NAY, official statement reads:

OFFICIAL STATEMENT REGARDING IESUS CHRISTI:

As a nation, we must respectfully voice our vocal discontent and outrage at the major indescretions committed by the nation of Iesus Christi on Easter, April 11th. As of today, 2100/4/16, we are issuing an official censure of Iesus Christi. Our best hopes go out to Cardinal Patrick McCullum and his followers.

----------------------------------------

The Freebodnik Six Unified Congress, First Quintannual Plenum of 2100

Bishop John Drew hadnt hardly left the church, when he had been arrested for "crimes against the states". He had been the only Bishop to read the Cardinals letter at mass and now he languished in a Iesus prison cell.

Carinal Patrick reached through the bars of the cell and clasp the hands of his oldest friend.
"thank God you're still alive John....I'm sorry..."
Bishop John smiled even though his face was a bruised and bloody mess
"you've got nothing to be sorry for Patrick....I knew the risks. I'm alittle surprised they let you visit.."
The Cardinals shoulders slumped "It should be me in there John...the bastards wont arrest me yet it seems...they've allowed my visit here only to try and scare me back into line " The cardinal looked around the dirty cell "and I fear they've succeeded...john I cant let you die here..not for my cause. They've made it clear unless I recant you'll all die....."
John snapped "shut up Patrick....this isn't just your cause...this is OUR cause..." A smile slowly crossed Johns face "be thankful you're a cardinal...your cell when it comes will be far more polished..."
"I doubt it..hear the rumours of what they did to paddy Iesus? If bridgette can do that to her brother my ‘reds' wont save me for long..."
Both men remained silent for afew moments, and both wished the room wasnt bugged so they could talk freely.
"So John..is there anything I can do?"
"Besides Bust me outta here? No...just keep the faith..."
"You too...God bless and keep you always John " The two men embraced through the bars.

As the Cardinal left, one of the guards ran into him...a harmless accident but Patrick felt something being slipped into his pocket and the guard in a hushed whisper spoke into his ear "Bishop John wanted you to have this incase...God Bless you Cardinal.."
The guard loudly apologized and walked off, leaving the Cardinal with his thoughts and the last letter from his oldest and dearest friend.

ICN News
Lord Inquisitor Bridgette Iesus announced today the arrest of several dangerous terrorists ...Praise God for her vigilance....she went onto say she hoped that Iesus Christi actions against religious terrorism would be supported by the international community.
Speaking from her headquarters, the Lord Inquisitor also made mention that Iesus Christi would always fight terrorism and Pro anarchy foreign influence.
In other news...

TAG

TAG

Lloyd Island, OIS Section

An frustrated sigh wooshed through the room, coming simultaneously from the man and the dragon present. The slender, darkhaired man scowled at the massive golden beast. "We've got no way of helping them? None at all? These people are the best hope for freedom in Iesus, and we can't even offer them sanctuary?"
The dragon sighed again. "Sssssadly true your graccce. Iesusss isss very thorough in their xenophobia. It'sss only through the reportsss we acquire from other peoplesss assssetss that we know where the priesssstsss are held. I'm very ssssorry. I know how important your faith issss to you."
The gallic-looking man made an apologetic gesture.
"It's not your fault my friend. If only there was something we could do."

OOC Matty, i do remember you saying on irc you've made several opportunities available to roll the Iesus family, problem is buggered if i can figure how. -_-?

Official communcation to the government of Iesus Christi:

We were distressed to learn of the detention of Bishop John Drew. At this tie, we request permission to send a delegation of international religious and secular figures to investigate the conditions under which Bishop Drew is being held and the question of religious freedom in Iesus Christi.

Violeta Bi Bere
People's representative for foreign affairs & human rights (outgoing)

Official communcation to the government of Iesus Christi:

We were distressed to learn of the detention of Bishop John Drew. At this tie, we request permission to send a delegation of international religious and secular figures to investigate the conditions under which Bishop Drew is being held and the question of religious freedom in Iesus Christi.

Violeta Bi Bere
People's representative for foreign affairs & human rights (outgoing)

((OOC: assuming this is a public communication))

"We would strongly advise against any individual being sent into Iesus Christi. This nation as a reputation of detaining them all. Our own special ambassador to the Reich, Herben, has been missing for years after a visit. It is our belief that he has been detained or murdered.

The Iesus government has no respect whatsoever for diplomatic immunity. I implore you to reconsider your offer."

~Hans van Mierlo
Foreign minister of the Dutch Democratic Republic

"Confess spy bastard confess!" The Inquisitor smashed his boot into the bishops face "CONFESS!"
Spitting up blood , Bishop John staggered back to his feet and replied slowly "to what?" The Inquisitors paused for a moment..a stunned silence...they themselves weren't even sure what the charges were..
The lead inquisitor picked up his baton from the floor "never you mind...just you confess...someone else will work out the details!"
The Inquisitors returned to their task and just like with prisoners Herben and P.Iesus ...they did carried out their jobs with ruthless joy.


To parties expressing interest in Iesus Christi justice against decadent terrorist factions.
Iesus Christi confirms the fair and righteous treatment given to all of her citizens...this applies to even villainous traitors held in custody. They are treated fairly and are given just trials when the time comes.
Therefore...there is no need for any foreign liberalistic delegation to investigate the living conditions of Prisoner #667. On the word of honour of myself and our entire justice system , he is being treated in accordance with the law of God and man.
Happy Easter
Yours in Christ
Bridgette Iesus

((Bah... your usual insane hypocricy is especially revolting in this time of year.
Happy easter!
:mrgreen: ))

Official Chimaean response to Iesus Christi's statement: "Bullocks."

From: Commander Kentherin
To: Bridget Iesus

For a long time, our governments have been at odds. This, I believe, is due to ignorance that our two governments have of each other. A remedy to this would be to have an exchange. I would go myself to your country, would send, say yourself, or your brother.

You must understand, this is to assure that both of the leaders will be returned to our nations un-harmed and un-tampered with. Our last diplomatic meeting was when a group of Thelasi Clergy were sent by the Catholic church in Thelas, unfortunately, this meeting did not end well. I hope to repair this.

Please Respond

The news from Iesus Christi was being discussed at the morning briefing for His Holiness, Leo XIV.

The brassy, pugnacious announcements from Iesus Christi about “terrorists” and “traitors” contrasted sharply with the more sober reports from other sources.

“Dear heavens, your Holiness! Priests dead and imprisoned, and Bishop Drew imprisoned, all for preaching sound doctrine! Madonna, what can be done about this Bridgette Iesus?”

“Prayer.” said the Pontiff, a trifle grimly.

Angelini looked mildly exasperated. “I was thinking of something a little more, ah, immediate.”

“Anti-psychotic medication?” Suggested the Sostituto, Archbishop Rahner.

Leo’s mouth curled at one corner, again a trifle grimly. “If only. The fact that we have no formal diplomatic ties with them complicates matters considerably. However…” the Pontiff paused, and narrowed his eyes slightly, looking off into the distance. Then he turned to look at Rahner.

“Lavenrunz.”

The Sostituto nodded. “Yes, I believe Cardinal Wittmar mentioned that they had ties with Iesus Christi.”

Angelini smiled. “And Aurora is a good Catholic.” The smile slipped away. “Theoretically, so is Mirbach.”

A slight expression of distaste crossed the Pontiff’s face. “Yes, theoretically. In any case, there could well be someone in his government who might have sufficient knowledge to assist us. We could at least get some strategic advice.”

Angelini looked a little puzzled. He was reasonably intelligent and perceptive, but as a recent, “acting” appointee to the Secretariat of State, he lacked a good deal of background on Vatican diplomatic policies and positions. “Forgive me, Holy Father, but I do not understand why we simply do not officially denounce the Iesus Christi regime and their dreadful schismatic perversion of the Church?”

Leo nodded to Rahner to field that one.

“Your Eminence must be aware how thoroughly power has been consolidated in Iesus Christi, and how much destructive potential is in the hands of Bridgette and her thugs. And how thoroughly communications are controlled. There are billions of Catholic souls in Iesus Christi, and certainly not all of them represent the dreadful heresy that has overtaken the country. We cannot do anything that would precipitate a worse bloodbath internally.”

“Moreover,” he continued, sadly, “Our analysts believe that the level of psychosis has reached a point where it could easily tip over into an openly schismatic ‘State’ Church. I need not remind your Eminence the implications of that, especially given the military power the Reich represents.”

“In any case, our position on Iesus Christi is abundantly clear, and no one is under the mistaken impression that we tolerate such demented heresy or identify it as ‘Catholic’ in any way.”

Angelini sighed unhappily. “Yes, you are right, I suppose. But what are we to do? The longer we do nothing, the more complicit we become; I am not comfortable with that.”

The Pontiff nodded. “Nor am I. But the course of action we choose will be dictated with the interests of the Church and the faithful of Iesus Christi first in mind.” Again, he nodded to Rahner. “Perhaps it is time to use that last briefing.”

Angelini looked enquiring, and the Sostituto nodded, slowly. “Perhaps, Holy Father.” He turned to Angelini.

“It is difficult to tell, of course, without the opportunity to do an examination in person. But we have had our intelligence files on Iesus Christi examined by some… specialists, in mental disorders, who find patterns and define profiles based on behavior.”

“They believe that in cases like Bridgette’s, a long period of sufficient functionality and stability to maintain some level of apparently rational control is almost inevitably followed by a total psychotic break. The escalation of slow and subtle pressure can hasten this break.”

“Now, it is anyone’s guess how well the machine of terror that is in charge of Iesus Christi can function once she has that break… but it would leave openings for possible reconfigurations which could be exploited from within.”

“If there’s anyone left within to exploit them,” Leo interpolated dryly.

“As to that, Holiness, we have conflicting and incomplete intelligence.”

Angelini waited for a pause, then asked, frowning, “But what ‘pressure’ are you referring to?”

“Bridgette is virtually impervious to external pressure from most sources—but if we can get the thin end of a wedge in through someone whose diplomatic ties are relatively meaningful to her, it will increase pressure. Combined with the most delicate of pressure from us—a formal diplomatic enquiry, perhaps?” Rahner glanced at the Pope, who nodded, “—she could start feeling some real pressure. Then it would be a question of getting, perhaps, a Reich insider to make a mild gesture… we would have to look at the possibilities there… In any case, slow and small steps could potentially be very powerful, combined with the usual sources. And we should encourage the nations that have been steadfast in maintaining the international eye on Iesus Christi to maintain that pressure—it could become very meaningful in cumulative effect.”

Angelini pursed his lips. It was clear that he was not entirely happy with the indirectness of the approach, but he did understand the necessity. “Well, we will send someone to Lavenrunz then, yes? In person. A nice gesture. Perhaps…” he glanced at Leo, “they could bring an Apostolic Blessing from your Holiness to the Empress.”

The Pope nodded. “Excellent. Thank you, Carlo. An excellent idea. Well. What next?”

Rahner opened the next folder…


Later that day, from the Secretariat of State, formal correspondence was sent:


The Honorable Count Joachim Viktor von Mirbach, Chancellor
The Teutonic Empire of Lavenrunz

Greetings in Christ

His Holiness has requested me, on behalf of the Holy See, to convey cordial greetings to the government of the Teutonic Empire, and to request an opportunity for a representative of the Secretariat of State to visit the Empire. His Holiness is anxious to obtain the counsel and advice of Her Majesty’s government on a matter of some concern to the Church, currently transpiring in Iesus Christi. The Holy Father understands that the Empire maintains diplomatic ties with Iesus Christi, and an opportunity to discuss our concerns and hear the counsel of those within Her Majesty’s government with experience in this area would be of great value.

We are also forwarding to Her Majesty’s Chamberlain a request for our representative, Archbishop Viktor Kronstein, to have an Audience with Her Majesty, to convey His Holiness’ Apostolic Blessing.

While ongoing formal diplomatic ties between the Empire and the Holy See have been limited, we maintain a cordial respect for the people, the government, and the Imperial Family of Lavenrunz. We anticipate this visit will provide an opportunity to extend and strengthen such ties.

Respectfully
+Archibishop Tenda Nataka
Secretary for Relations With States
Secretariat of the Holy See



The Honorable Count Chemnitz,
Chamberlain to Her Imperial, Faithful and Teutonic Majesty, Aurora von Sachshausen, Empress of Lavenrunz

Greetings in Christ,

His Holiness has requested me, on his behalf, to covey pastoral greetings to Her Majesty, and to request an audience for Archbishop Viktor Kronstein, during his requested visit to the Empire to discuss diplomatic matters with Her Majesty’s government. His Holiness would like to have his Apostolic Blessing conveyed to Her Majesty, and assure her of his care for the Church of Lavenrunz.

We greatly appreciate your kindness in coordinating this matter with meetings scheduled through our request to Chancellor Mirbach.

Respectfully
+Archibishop Tenda Nataka
Secretary for Relations With States
Secretariat of the Holy See


The last one was a bit trickier.

Bridgette Iesus

Greetings in Christ

Madame, it has come to the attention of the Holy See that Archbishop John Drew has been arrested and imprisoned.

The Holy See requests an opportunity to review the specific nature of the charges against Archbishop Drew, including any and all evidence relating to the crimes with which he is charged.

In Christ,

+ Carlo Giovanni Cardinal Angelini
Secretary of State (acting)
Secretariat of the Holy See

"So the Pope has gotten involved?"

"Ya, good thing too, I wonder...."

"So how did we get this in the first place?"

"Even the Pope is not immune to Thelasi Millitary Intellegence reading his messages"

"Point, ahh, here is the message Isharnil wants us to send"



From: Empress Ithenril
To: His Excellency, Pope Leo XIV
Encoded Using Public Encoding Key, Key length 10^100000 Bits

I congratulate you on your recent rise to power with in the Papacy, while I are saddened to see the pope venerable die, I believe that strong leadership is what is needed in a time of trouble within the Catholic Church.

Thelas is a unique nation in the world, for we are both a predominantly Catholic nation and an Elven nation. This puts us in an odd place. Many have for a long time now abused the name of our faith, calling themselves Christians, merely to further some agenda. Many even are presumptuous enough to add passages to the Bible, and almost all commit grievous crimes against believers and non-believers.

As an example, on a recent mission to the nation of Iesus Christi, be not deceived, this nation cares little for the teaching of our Lord and Savior, a Bishop was gunned down, the Cardinal and four Bishops with him were burned at the stake while attempting to save a group of embassy workers from the nation of Skyskevia.

I ask you to quickly make a ruling upon the state of Elves as Catholics, and the nations of the alliance known as the Reich, who have published their own versions of the Bible, adding to passages and violating the direction of our Lord in the book of Revelations, “Thou shalt not add nor subtract” was written, yet they add and subtract, and use Christianity, the path to salvation, as a cover for their purely political agendas.



OOC: Note, the public encoding key is NOT the same as the private decoding key, with a key length that long, it will take you a VERY VERY VERY long time to decode.... unless you have a massive network of super computers working on decoding

We welcome Iesus taken steps against its Christian fanatics and zealots.
Should this continue it would go a long way to make Iesus a nation of world wide honor and praise

~Sultan Omar

Father Mark Pitloch, one of Archbishop Nataka’s secretaries at the just-forming Eldar desk, received the correspondence from Thelas. Slightly puzzled, he went over to the desk of a colleague who had more experience.

“Uhhhh… Margaret?”

Sister Margaret Velosienne, who had worked on the “special unit” desk since anyone could remember, adjusted her old-fashioned reading glasses under the edge of her wimple and looked over the Thelassian letter.

“What is it, Mark?”

“Err… well… they address the Holy Father as ‘your Excellency.’ And, um… this phrasing,” he pointed to I congratulate you on your recent rise to power with in the Papacy “…is, um, peculiar, to say the least. Byzantine, even.”

Margaret chuckled a little. “Well, the Eldar have been around a long, long time, Mark. They don’t always remember the nuances of human culture changes. I’m sure Thelas is probably aware there has been change in the last 1000 years, but…” she shrugged. “Some are more careful about it than others. Then, too, sometimes the language translation at their end, and the decryption algorithm at our end, can result in odd phrasing. Just ignore it.”

“Well, yes, but, look at this—” he pointed to the paragraph,


I ask you to quickly make a ruling upon the state of Elves as Catholics, and the nations of the alliance known as the Reich, who have published their own versions of the Bible, adding to passages and violating the direction of our Lord in the book of Revelations, “Thou shalt not add nor subtract” was written, yet they add and subtract, and use Christianity, the path to salvation, as a cover for their purely political agendas.

“And they seem to think we’re unaware of the terrible events in that courtroom last year.”

The Dominican nun shrugged. “Not too unreasonable an assumption; remember, last year was when Sixtus’ illness was first diagnosed. We were pretty preoccupied. It does seem odd, though, that they haven’t heard of the encyclical “In Apostolatum Eldari” clarifying the status of Eldar Catholics, or the recent elevation of Cardinal Ravion.”

“Yes, but I don’t want to, um, insult them by making those assumptions, either.”

She nodded. “Well, do your best. If you want me to look it over before you send it up, I’d be happy to.”

“Thanks. I’ll route it to you.”

He went back to his desk and puzzled it over, finally producing:



Bishop of Rome and Vicar of Jesus Christ, Successor of St. Peter, Prince of the Apostles, Supreme Pontiff of The Universal Church, Patriarch of The West, Primate of Italy, Archbishop and Metropolitan of the Roman Province, Sovereign of Vatican City State,
LEO, the Fourteenth of that Name, Gloriously Reigning,

To the Lady Ithenril nos Galadriel, Empress of the Thelasi Star Empire, greetings in Christ,

Our thanks for your greetings on the occasion of our inauguration, and our Apostolic Blessing to you and the Faithful of Thelas.

We are not unaware of the issues faced by Eldarin Catholics. While the Encyclical of Sixtus VI, “In Apostolatum Eldari,” has, we hope, done much to clarify the basic approach of the Church in this matter, we recognize that there is yet a long way to go in assisting human cultures to understand and accommodate our Eldar brethren. We are confident that the interest and prayers of the Thelasi people will support us as the Church continues to work for wider understanding.

With regard to the questions you raise concerning Iesus Christi, we are not unaware of the difficulties the Church faces there, nor of the distorted versions of Biblical documents circulated, nor yet of the terrible oppression experienced by the true Faithful there. They are constantly in our prayers and thoughts. We feel confident in asking your prayers and those of the Thelasi people for a resolution in keeping with Divine mercy and justice.

Given in Rome, at St. Peter’s, the ____ day of _____, in the first year of our Pontificate.

Mark routed this to Sister Margaret’s inbox, and later that afternoon she stopped by his desk to give him a thumbs-up. “I think you handled it very nicely, Mark. Go ahead and send it up.”

Archbishop Nataka forwarded it without edits to the Apartment, and it came back with only a minor wording change or two, which cheered the young priest and gave him confidence. The message was dispatched promptly, with only small technical hitches in transmission delaying it to its destination.

...

To: Commander Kentherin
Iesus Christi has no desire to have any form of exchange with a nation such of yours?
Your vile heretical metahuman debauched ways are what bring shame to the planet!
Iesus is forever free of the likes of you!!!

Bridgette Iesus
In the name of her brother-Matthew Iesus-Lord Protector and President of Iesus Christi.


To: Secretary of State (acting) Secretariat of the Holy See
The Roman catholic Bishop John Drew had indeed been arrested. A sad day for the Church here in Iesus Christi.....
The charges against him are yet to be fully outlined but rest assured-when the full list of charges IS laid against him, you shall be dutifully informed. His current status is he is Currently being held under the prevention of sedition and terrorism act (section-17) for remarks given during and after the mass of the octave of Easter.
Please believe and trust the Iesus government will see justice done...

Christo Duce
Happy Easter
Bridgette Iesus
Inquisitor general, Iesus Security branch, Minister for social order.



John Drew was taken from his cell, and thrown before the three military judges...
"you are charged with treason and sedition against the state and against God....how do you plead?"

"Unless you recant your stance on our noble government we will have no choice but to find you guilty?
Bishop John stared blankly at the three military judges, and so the nearest guard brought his baton down across the bishops shoulders and hissed at him "answer the judges!"
John groaned ..."I cannot recant the truth of the cross"
"So be it. Bishop john we find you guilty of sedition and treason. You are to be taken from this place and hang by the neck until you are dead at a time that pleases the court. This is the Will of Iesus!"
The guards lifted the bishop from his seat and carried him back to his cell, not because of any protest the bishop was making but simply because he was unable to walk thanks to his earlier interrogations...

Inquisitor Jackson sat with Cardinal Patrick McCullum in confessional.
"Listen Cardinal....this is from the top?.She says? return to the status quo and it will all be forgiven.....continue on this slippery sloop...and well?you'll have a whole lot less bishops and priests in your flock..starting with ole John?
Jackson got up but the Cardinal stopped him "while youre here, would you like me to hear your confession?"
Shaking his head in shock Jackson left the cardinal alone after one departing shot?"perhaps you should find someone to hear your confession instead cardinal, I think you need it more than me?

Archbishop Nataka and Cardinal Angelini were poring over the ICky File.

“Hmmmph. Not much of an answer,” the Secretary of State grunted.

“All we need,” said the Japanese calmly, “all we need.”

Angelini looked at him speculatively. “How do you mean?”

Nataka smiled, and placed a slender forefinger on the document. “This,” he said, moving his finger along the text briefly where it said ‘you shall be dutifully informed,’ "is a clear concession of our right to concern ourselves in this matter.”

“Concession?” Angelini was outraged. “Drew is a Bishop of the Church! Ordained by the Holy Father! Certainly we have a right to concern ourselves with this matter.”

The newly-appointed Sostituto smiled thinly. “Reality,” he pointed out, “has never been a matter of overwhelming concern to any member of the Iesus family. To them, reality is what they choose to acknowledge.” His smile broadened. “And now she chooses to acknowledge our authority in this.”

“Ahhhhh…” Angelini was catching on rapidly. “This is the thin end of the wedge, then?”

“Very thin, and very fragile. It would not do to overplay matters at this stage, your Eminence. In any case, poor Drew is probably already dead. Nevertheless, officially we have no such knowledge. We will proceed as though he is simply under a mild house arrest, awaiting enquiry upon apparently legitimate civil charges.”

Angelini crossed himself. “I must offer another Mass for poor John.” He frowned. “She must be running out of bishops by now, wouldn’t you think?”

“That is not likely to trouble her, as long as she has enough priests who have been tortured or threatened or deluded into cooperating with her. Well. This will help provide us with another straw, however small.” Nataka stood. “Permesso, Eminence. I will go and prepare a response.”

The Cardinal nodded. He was just as glad Nataka was returning to his own office, it was about three in the afternoon—a perfect time for un piccolo sonno. He glanced at the stack of thick folders that Nataka had left.

With a sigh, he buzzed Father Francis. “Francis, I would be eternally obliged if you could supply me with a large cappuccino,” he said in a resigned tone, and picked up the first of the folders.

An hour or so later, Archbishop Nataka was pleasantly encouraged to see the inroads his boss had made on the stack. He put a draft down on the desk, and Angelini looked it over:

Bridgette Iesus
Minister for Social Order
Iesus Christi

Madame,

We are deeply concerned to hear of the arrest of a bishop of the Holy Church. Please provide a transcript of the “remarks given during and after the mass of the octave of Easter” that are alleged to constitute sedition and terrorism under the laws of your nation, and copies of any additional relevant documents and evidence being considered in formulating charges against Bishop Drew.

We hope that you will proceed with all due deliberation such a grave matter, and inform us immediately of the charges when they are filed. It would also be appreciated if you would provide a summary of your nation’s law guaranteeing Bishop Drew’s right to due process, and a similar summary of that process, should he in fact be charged.

While we cannot condone a bishop of the Church committing civil crimes—particularly crimes as grave as sedition and terrorism—we are of course extremely concerned with ensuring that Bishop Drew’s human rights are meticulously safeguarded throughout the process.

We are confident, too, that in the event of this matter proving a misunderstanding, of no charges being made, or of Bishop Drew’s acquittal, your government will act with diligence and dispatch to restore his freedom and return him to his See. Bishop Drew’s service to God is highly valued by the Holy Father.

In Christ,

+ Carlo Giovanni Cardinal Angelini
Secretary of State (acting)
Secretariat of the Holy See

Angelini looked it over. “Poor John. And all those suffering priests, and Faithful. God have mercy.” He shook his head slowly, thinking about it, then looked up at Nataka.

“All right. Send it off. Let’s see what we get back. Oh, and—did you see this?”

He held up the copy of the petition for sainthood that Sister Margaret had forwarded earlier.

Nataka nodded.

He put it back in the file. “Simply unbelievable.”

OOC: I'm sorry, got a busy day ahead but will reply later today.

To parties expressing interest in Iesus Christi justice against decadent terrorist factions.
Iesus Christi confirms the fair and righteous treatment given to all of her citizens...this applies to even villainous traitors held in custody. They are treated fairly and are given just trials when the time comes.
Therefore...there is no need for any foreign liberalistic delegation to investigate the living conditions of Prisoner #667. On the word of honour of myself and our entire justice system , he is being treated in accordance with the law of God and man.
Happy Easter
Yours in Christ
Bridgette Iesus

The eyes of the world are upon Iesus Christi. We take note of the assurances given publicly by the IC government that the rights of the detained to fair treatment and a fair trial will be fully respected. The honour fo the IC government is at stake: can the world believe the promises of the Iesus family? The treatment of John Drew and other dissenters will answer this question. Should the government not live up to the promises it has given to the itnernational community, we will call for all states to sever diplomatic and economic ties with IC.

Mari Alkatiri
People's representative for foreign affairs & human rights

Umm...wasn't the celebration of Easter enforced by Constantine after a pagan holiday?
I think the same thing can be said of Christmas....

Easter means the time of year where people mate...it's a pagan word for spring...

Christians and Catholics take all their holidays from elsewhere...

Upon hearing Mari Alkatiri's statements, a small conversation was held by two backbencher politicians in the lunchroom of parliament hall:

"Is there really anyone left who would still consider the Iesus family honourable?"
*snickers* "I don't think even the Metus alliance considers them thus - Alkatiri seems to think they have something to lose they never had."
"And what of these ties? They have ties with other nations beyond monthly condemnations?"
"Uhhh..."

(ooc: what, these backbenchers have never heard of political posturing? :wink: )

...

SeOCC joins Tanah Burungs call for Iesus Christi to come clean about the treatment of these dissidents. SeOCC has offered to accept religious criminals from Iesus Christi into exile in our country, and our offer has been refused. Though SeOCC has always attempted to seek dialogue with Iesus Christi to promote peace and tolerance between our two very differant ideologies, the leadership of the Lord Inquisitor, who appears now to control the government through selective law enforcement, has taken several huge steps backwards from when SeOCC and Iesus Christi last met.

Unless the dissidents are either allowed to meet with international human rights inspectors or exiled to a nation where their relgious beliefs will not be grounds for crminal prosecution, SeOCC will sever all diplomatic ties to Iesus Christi. While we respect the right and authority of the Iesus Christi government to protect its culture and societal norms, this can be achieved through less restrictive means than those in place, and we call upon the government of Iesus Christi to make use of those means before undertaking measure that cannot be undone.

Dmitri Ovyonov
Minister of Politics
SeOCC

don't know if it has been answetred yet, but someone asked if easter was enforced by constantine in relation to a pagan holiday. the answer is, uh, no! Jesus was crucified during the Passover season, the Last Supper was a Passover meal. easter is actually related to the Passover season. it is some sort of moon-phase cycle that the church still adheres to. the thing with constantine is different. while he was riding to battle or something along those lines, he had a vision. it was Jesus upon the cross, with a sign saying, "in this image, you shall be victorious/you shall conquer." after that, he converted and made Christianity the official state religion of Rome. before then, Christians were hunted and an underground sect.

(ooc: what, these backbenchers have never heard of political posturing? :wink: )

((OOC: well, yeah, but it seems especially pointless here. Not that I don't have dozens of 'embargoes' running which are purely pro forma or anything but for crying out loud, calling for moderation in Iesus. You'd expect that TB would completely and utterly reject fascism. But apparently some *cough* reds still think doing business with a mad genocidal christian-fundamentalist nazi dictator is morally perfectly acceptable if it gets you an alliance against people who allow profit margins...

Wanna bet? TB always seems keen enough on that sort of thing.
Chances of Iesus leadership giving in to international demands. I'm willing to bet against it with odds of 200 to one in your favour. Stake: a million arbitrary credits. ))

To his Excellency Archbishop Tenda Nataka
Secretary for Relations With States
Secretariat of the Holy See

After conferring with my esteemed colleague and fellow servant of the Empress, Count Chemnitz, I am pleased to say that Her Majesty would be very glad to receive the Apostolic Blessing and to meet with an envoy of the Throne of Saint Peter. I shall have the appropriate security agencies meet with yours so that the envoy in question is conveyed safely, as unfortunately there have been anti-Catholic and anti-Christian terrorists active in this region of the world.

most respectfully in Christ
Count Joachim von Mirbach
Chancellor of Lavenrunz

To his Excellency Archbishop Tenda Nataka
Secretary for Relations With States
Secretariat of the Holy See

If it is fitting, I have arranged for the envoy of the Holy See to arrive at Archduke Valerian Air Force Base which is in the capital city of Hofburg. It will be easier to arrange security and the proper reception ceremonies for the envoy there. From there, the envoy will be conveyed to the Autumn Palace, where, after a brief rest, he will be granted audience with the Empress and the Imperial Court.

most respectfully in Christ
Count Chemnitz
Imperial Chamberlain

(won't take that bet Knoot! The posturing is aimed at an entirely different audience than IC and for various raisons d'etat -- i'm certainly under no illusions that the Iesus family is going to be singing Kumbaya any time soon)

Catholic New Times

From our Rome correspondent

With the Iesus Christi dictatorship cracking down on the Catholic church, the Vatican faces an early test of its new, more active foreign policy.

Countries calling themselves Catholic had a free reign under the tenure of Sixtus VI to violate any number of church teachings. Now, Leo XIV and his new secretary of state, Cardinal Angelini, will have to deal with the issue of how to protect the church's bishops in totalitarian countries, without putting their Catholic population at risk. It's a delicate balancing act, but its success or failure will set the hallmark for Leo's ability to tame the contentious national churches.

The Vatican is moving carefully but firmly in this case. Explanations have been demanded from Iesus Christi, and observers speculate that the matter will be central in the upcoming visiit of Archnbishop Nataka to Lavenrunz, another mainly Catholic state known for its militarism and conservative politics. Perhaps, sources speculate, the Teutonic Empire will be able to exercsise some influence over the erratic Iesus family.

If not, a collisison seems certain between church and state in Iesus Christi. That could mean a bloodbath, so the loyalties of Catholic states are clear: they will have to back the Vatican's efforts, no matter how slim the chances are. And, most likely, say a prayer to St. Jude, patron saint of hopeless causes.

The Vatican Secretariat of State sent cordial thanks to Lavenrunz, and despatched Archbishop Kronstein on a mutually arranged schedule.

The Archbishop had been carefully chosen for this assignment. A man of disciplined, not to say precise, habits and conservative views, he was both authoritative and approachable in manner. His mother had been Lavenrunzian, and he had spent time in his youth in the Teutonic Empire.

He watched with some interest as the InterAir jet circled around Archduke Valerian AFB, looking over Hofburg, which he had not seen for many years, and even picking out the Autumn Palace. He travelled with an aide and a secretary, the aide was a layman of Upper Saxonian descent whose family had been dependents of his father's family for many years; the secretary was a young priest from Motubanga. Neither had ever seen Lavenrunz, and both were as interested in window-peering as the Archbishop. He smiled at them when the jet landed.

"Well, now you can see it in person."

The Vatican group waited for the InterAir staff to secure the disembarkation passage, and left the aircraft.

The airport was certainly very secure; it was plain from the air that vehicles or people travelling on foot would have a difficult time getting past the roadblocks guarding the accessways. Moreover there were several
bunker like structures at intervals with what appeared to be anti-aircraft batteries. On the ground, a cortege of vehicles awaited the Archbishop, and the crowned leopard flag of Lavenrunz flapped in the wind above the buildings.
A small honour guard, in nineteenth century costume of gorgeous plumes, silvered breastplates and helmets, mirror polished boots and bright blue and gold tunics stood in two rows. Along with them was a small greeting party, including
Archbishop Huntzinger, the prelate of Hofburg, a robust but greying man in his mid fifties, blue eyes still very clear, with the large blunt hands of his peasant heritage, smiling went to greet Archbishop Kronstein with a fraternal embrace.
"Welcome, dear brother, to Lavenrunz." he said in a warm deep voice. "I hope your journey was pleasant." as he spoke, the honour guard came with machine like precision to attention, swords flashing, boots stamping as if by one set of muscles to the
sharp sound of an order.
Huntzinger, as he led the papal envoy to the car, which was to be escorted by leather coated officers of the Reichspolizei, explained, "Her Majesty will sit in Court in two hours. Is there anything you would like to do before the audience?"

Archbishop Kronstein's secretary and valet were clearly impressed with the spit-and-polish flamboyance of their reception, and Kronstein himself smiled appreciatively as he embraced his brother bishop.

"It is a pleasure, a great pleasure, to be in Lavenrunz again."

When they were in the car, he considered Huntzinger's question thoughtfully. "If you have the time, brother, it would be most useful to hear your personal views on the state of the Church here in Lavenrunz, especially in relation to this latest initiative of your government in regards to non-humans." He paused, seeming to debate whether to amplify further, and let it rest there.

Iesus is shamed by the imperialist rhetoric spewing from the west, we are doing nothing but protectong our national sovrentiy against fundamentalist zealots!
Iesus is taking a stand against terrorism and religious hate...any nation who cannot see this is not friend of Iesus Christi!
Bishop John Drew appears to be a cancer upon our fair land, a beacon of hate and terrorism..he may only be the tip of the iceberg when it comes to the sedition inside the religious communities of Iesus Christi....but this all remains yet to be proved..until then, Iesus will take whatever actions it deems fit to protect the people of God.
Seooc be damned! All who hate God to the devil with you!
Christo Duce!
Bridgette Iesus-in the name of her brother (president) Matthew Iesus


The blackness around John was total, he strained his eyes to see around his dank cell but the darkness was blinding. John slumped his bruised body against the wall and suppressed the desire to cry...this cell deep in the dungeons of the ministry of social order was his home now until the day they decided his life was over, and from the carry-on of his tormenters the day wasnt far off.
Suddenly a deafening wail cut through the air...a demented high pitch electronic buzz that made John fall to his knees in agony..the noise seemed to continue for a eternity and then suddenly disappeared only to be replaced with a soft voice that demanded in a sweet voice "Repent....confess...recant..You've been abandoned...give in..."
Thee voice droned on and on John wished for the howling noise again...anything would be better than the vile sickly words now echoing around the room.
The tears started to well up in his eyes and in his heart he wanted freedom and life..he didnt want to die down here.....
Then he heard something....something different but at first John wondered what new torment was about to be inflicted upon him...yet another sound now carried in the room., a deeper fainter sound that came from the wall it seemed.
John crawled ...hunting for the source of this new sound even as the sweet voice continued to boom its gospel of despair.
"Pisssssst You wouldn't happen to be Bishop John would you? I thought I heard a guard say........
John froze in surprise, from a tiny hole in the black wall came a somewhat familiar voice
"I am and who the hell are you?!"
The voice whispered back "keep your voice down , iron Annies ravings will cover most of our speaking but its better to be safe eh?
"oh" John spat into the hole with a whisper "Yes I'm John?
The two men talked in hushed whispers as the soft voiced women spat her hate over the broadcasting system.....

Father Simon was screaming.
"You cant! I don't care if you're a cardinal! What you're doing is WRONG!!!"
The cardinal tried to calm the priest "We are simply preaching the gospel of Christ..."
Simon shouted in rage "You're a meddling fool...I wont have anything to do with this...screw the metahumans!"
With that the priest turned and walked out....

The priesthood was greatly divided over this issue...even though many felt the cardinal was doing the right thing, many felt it was better to not rock the boat so greatly so quickly.

And now John..how many priests personally held the cardinal to blame for his looming execution...they all knew the situation...they all knew they were hostages to silence Cardinal Patrick....
Patrick read over the letter that Johns guard had slipped him ...
Patrick picked up his pen and wrote the words to his Sunday sermon...the title said it all.....

Witness to Love and Truth..

Huntzinger became grim faced at Kronstein's question. He said, quietly, "I'm afraid that the Church is divided on that, here as well. There are some, unfortunately, who feel that the Metahumans are aberrations and do not truly have souls. One popular preacher is calling them 'Children of Cain'. The Church is only made up of people, and those same people are unfortunately subject to the Flesh as much as any, in spite of the trials that have ideally set them at a high standard. The Primate has, however, opposed the Chancellor's motion.
Something you must understand. The Empress has made her position clear, but she cannot according to the Lavenrunzian Constitution simply bar a law from being made before it has reached a vote in the Volksraad. The Volksraad will meet in five days, at which point the vote will be taken. Of course, the Empress' public appearance recently has made many people doubt, but so have the recent terrorist attacks and the unrest which seems to plague the civilized world. So you must see that it is not an easy matter for the nation to decide what to do.
The Empress will likely veto any decision to ban citizenship for non-humans--but if the Volksraad has voted for it, well...the Crown has not actually exercised the veto in nearly a generation.
Claudia der Waal, who leads the Opposition, recently voiced this thought: "Why would they want to remain in a country which is so hostile towards them?" I'm afraid, as a country lad, I can readily answer that. Because it's become their home." he sighed and said, "That is a bit of a long winded answer, I'm sure, but I hope it was one..."
They had reached the Abbey adjoining the Cathedral of the Archangels, which was a restoration of the original medieval building, the frieze above and around the great doors showing the Angelic Host, topped by the Archangel Michael poised to deal a death blow to a great dragon. This, Archbishop Huntzinger informed Kronstein, would be where he would be staying. Huntzinger was Abbot of the Franciscan monastery among his other positions, Kronstein had been informed.

To my dear Brother in Christ
Matthew Iesus, Lord Protector of the Holy Empire of Iesus Christi

I do not wish this letter to be only pleasantries, so while I hope it finds you in good health I wish to come directly to the point.
It grieves me very deeply that you have allowed your anger at the rebelliousness of certain prelates and priests to lead you to resort to a savagery which would better be suited to pagan idolators or communists. Surely you remember Christ's mercy? If you simply retort that these people are not worthy of it, you forget Christ's words: "let he who is without sin cast the first stone."
I remember when your father pleaded with my mother to let a group of rebels in Lavenrunz, who were part of the Christian Liberation Army, who had burned women in Athenys alive, to live. He had asked that they be remanded to his custody or at least permitted to continue living in prison. I ask the same of you now: surely vengeance or desire for safety does not justify murder.

your loving sister in Christ
Aurora von Sachshausen
Empress of Lavenrunz

Kronstein nodded thoughtfully. “Well, as you know, the Church itself is far from unanimous on the subject of sentient non-humans and their relation to human society and the Church.” He shrugged distastefully. “I confess, I am not entirely comfortable with nonhumans, myself. Nor with all of the implications of In Apostolatum Eldari. However, up to that point, the theological conclusions of the Council on Sentience are fairly unequivocal.”

He sighed. “We know that Satan cannot make; that power belongs only to the Creator and Maker of Life. Satan can only mar, distort, and corrupt. Whatever purpose God had in making nonhuman sentient life, we know that such life did have a Divine purpose, whatever has happened to it since. No inherent evil exists in nonhuman sentience simply by virtue of its being nonhuman.”

“And I certainly do not subscribe to the vulgar distortions of fear and hatred for nonhuman races. Those are manifestations of poor education or undisciplined intellects.”

He looked up at the Abbey’s meticulously restored and maintained architecture. “Magnificent! Truly impressive.”

As they entered the Abbey, he returned to the subject. “Still, I have to wonder if it is a good thing for any of us, to attempt to integrate nonhumans into essentially human societies, and vice-versa. The differences are so profound…” he trailed off, staring absently at a statue of the Virgin in an alcove as they passed it.

“However,” he said briskly, with a blink, as though recalling himself to the matter at hand. “Church policy is Church policy, and as of now the Magisterium opens the Church to such nonhuman sentients as feel a true and sincere conversion. And, although I might not feel entirely comfortable baptizing nonhuman converts, I fully agree with the conclusion that the Church’s teachings on human rights must be applied to nonhuman sentients, just as they must be applied to non-Catholic human beings.”

“It leaves a large gray area, of course, in regards to the choices of sovereign human nations about whether to accept nonhuman immigration or not. Personally, in such a position I would favor not. But those who already have nonhuman populations are in a far more equivocal position.”

“Nor,” he added thinly, “does it excuse the actions of tyrants like the Iesus family who use vulgar incitements to hate and racism as a means of controlling their populations and maintaining or expanding their own despotic power.”

“Well!” He looked around the accommodations to which Huntzinger had led him. “This is pleasant. Thank you, brother. I will have a wash, and look over my notes, and be ready to leave for the Audience whenever it is appropriate.”

Dear " loving sister in Christ" Aurora von Sachshausen
Saddly My brother is far to busy dealing with the soon to be coming beatification of our father...praise and bless his name..to be able to personally address your letter, instead the honour has fallen to me.
I firstly assure you...Iesus is quite sinless in her handling of this current matter...all respect and due process is being given to the seditious clergy currently being held in custody, rest assured in this fact..Iesus remembers her loyalty to the church and she remembers her history.
I remember the words of my saintly father when it comes to those dealings you mentioned and I remember your mothers response.... know how Lavenrunz treats orthodoxy and the word of Christ...so you抣l have to forgive me if I don't take your homily on mercy to heart.
Christo Duce

Bridgette Iesus




Iesus Government declaration 7/5/___
In the name of God , his eternal mother and the people of Iesus Christi...
From this day , all clergy of any religious congregation/communities inside Iesus Christi will be bond to sign and henceforth give solemn fidelity to this oath.

I (the under signed) shall...
Only celebrate the Roman catholic tradition. I vow my spiritual loyalty to Rome and no other faith.
I shall with a deep humble and filial bond of charity remain loyal to the holy father and the government of Iesus Christi with exemplary docility.
I shall with fidelity uphold the blood and honour laws of Iesus Christi, and all other such national laws of Iesus Christi. I shall be faithful to these laws the by word,action and deed.
Serve the people of my nation by faithful service to our national leader Matthew Iesus , and his appointed officials.
I vow this under God the most high and through the intercession of his blessed Mother
Signed....

This law shall apply to all clergy/pastors in Iesus including any Protestant and non-Christian "churches". Failure to sign will be seen as a form of sedition, and will be punished accordingly.
B.Iesus. In the name of her Brother.

Chimaea's borders remain open for any refugees that can make it out of Iesus Christi. As had been the policy since the previous Bryce Administration, and will remain so for the forseeable future.

Chimaea also condemns Iesus Christi's attempts to pervert the cause of religious tolerance.

~Chimaean Foreign Ministry

The Court

Once a year, the Monarch of Lavenrunz held court in Hofburg. This was a time when special petitions were read, when major decisions of the Volksraad were put before the ruler for judgement, when alms were dispensed and justice done, according to tradition.
It began with the rarely held full Court ceremony. In the Shield Hall of the Autumn Palace, Chevalier Guards in full ceremonial, equerries, chamberlains, matrons of honour, collegiate counsellors, state councillors and other courtiers vied for splendour with gold buttons and braid, ornate sword sheaths, fur and leopardskin cloaks, plumes, silk sashes and lace.
The leading aristocratic families arrived to pay homage, led by the members of the Imperial Family. A notable exception would be absent: the
designated Heir Apparent, in this case the Archduke Carl, the Empress' uncle.
Foreign envoys were also invited to this event. Most notable was the fact that a Papal Envoy, one Archbishop Kronstein, a native of Lavenrunz, would be present.
Over all this, Count Chemnitz, the Imperial Chamberlain, presided, though of course he was very much advised by members of the court such as Baroness Toll, the Empress Press Secretary, Baron Ehrfurt, her Private Secretary, and by the security apparatus of state.
Also significantly present would be the envoys of Lord Melkor--a fact received with some trepidation by those who had devoted their lives
in government to opposing the Reich and its allies...

OOC: Doublepost madness

Cardinal Patrick proclaimed his homily with a heavy heart that Sunday....He wasnst even sure Rome would approve of his stance and then there was poor john....what price would he pay ....
"We must witness to love! To the truth of God! All are created equal...and it blasphemes against Christ to say otherwise...we must love every creation that God granted conscience too...we cannot allow ourselves to be bullied into silence.....we must love the metahuman!"
At the back of the church a uniformed officer shouted a short list of abuses and then stormed from the church. Many others followed suit....


Soon after, National television screamed the news that the Bishop John Drew had been found guilty of sedition and terrorism.....dozens of reports even claimed that the miracles of the tomb of Matthew "augustus" Iesus had lead to the evidence against Bishop John....evidence that even linked Bishop John to metahuman deviancy.
Then the nation was full of the propaganda, portraying Matthew Iesus as the saviour of the church for exposing this criminal and showing that the clerical oath of loyalty was clearly more needed than ever, for clearly there was sedition in the ranks of the clergy.
The stunned people watched the view screens and listened to the speakers with only whispered questions....

Archbishop Kronstein’s valet, Gunther Klingmann, carefully brushed out, and steamed a few tiny wrinkles from the Archbishop’s purple cassock and mozzetta, and meticulously pressed the handworked lace edging on the snowy white rochet of formal dress. The archbishop would appear for the ceremonial court in full formal choir dress—the most elaborate non-liturgical wear of a Catholic prelate.

Kronstein himself was saying Divine Office in the last few moments before assuming the formal garments and departing for the ceremony. When he finished murmuring, “…et opus manuum nostrarum dirige. Amen.” (in Latin, Kronstein was one of the traditionalists who was taking the fullest possible license with the Holy Father’s encouragement to revive Latin usages in the Divine Office,) he closed his breviary and looked over to where Klingmann stood waiting, holding the fringed cincture over his forearm.

Carefully, the Archbishop dressed. Feeling a bit anachronistic (he rarely assumed as much formal pomp,) he sailed forth to the court.

Bridgette Iesus
Minister for Social Order
Iesus Christi

Madame,

We are distressed and concerned at receiving no response to our recent request for the following information:


A list of the charges (if any) filed against Bishop John Drew
A summary of your nation’s law guaranteeing Bishop Drew’s right to due process; and
A summary of the process itself, under which Bishop Drew may be charged and tried, the possible dispositions of such cases, and the appropriate legal penalties for any offenses with which this Bishop of the Church may be charged


Not receiving this information, but rather learning that the Bishop has already been tried and convicted, and without sufficient and credible evidence to support claims of “sedition” and “terrorism” against Bishop Drew, we are regretfully forced to the conclusion that Bishop Drew is imprisoned, not as a civil criminal convicted of civil crimes under due process depending on objective and credible evidence, but as an act of political repression in connection with the Bishop’s recent exposition of true Church doctrines from the pulpits of Iesus Christi.

As such, we must regard Bishop Drew as imprisoned for the Faith.

We hope that you will be able to provide objective and credible evidence, including records and witnesses of clearly impartial nature in conformity with accepted norms of evidentiary value, that this is not the case.

Furthermore, if the teachings, writings, or preachings of any ordained clergy of the Catholic Church are regarded as doctrinally or dogmatically incorrect by the government of Iesus Christi, we expect the government to refer the said clergy, with accurate evidence of any material considered objectionable, to the Tribunal of the Apostolic Signatura for review under properly constituted Canonical authority. Action taken by the government of Iesus Christi against any Catholic clergy on the basis of teachings, writings, or preaching undertaken as part of their clerical duties, without such reference to Canonical authority, or in the absence of review and adjudication by Canonical authority, will be regarded as persecution of the Faith by the government of Iesus Christi.

+Carlo Giovanni Cardinal Angelini
Secretary of State
Secretariat of the Holy See

By the same post, a packet under the Seal of the Congregation for Bishops was delivered to the headquarters of the Episcopal Council of Iesus Christi:


To all Bishops and Metropolitans of Iesus Christi

Brothers:

Henceforth the dispensation from ad limina appearances for any bishop of the Church is revoked. All bishops are expected to resume canonically required ad limina visits to Rome every five years, starting immediately. Only in special cases of grave illness, incapacitation, or imprisonment for the Faith will individual dispensations be granted upon application to this office.

We eagerly look forward to visits from the bishops of Iesus Christi. Please contact this office immediately to establish a schedule for ad limina visitation to Rome by all Iesus Christi bishops.

In Christ,

+Rufino Jiao Cardinal Sales
Cardinal Prefect
Congregation for Bishops

Your Grace
Peace and the Blessing of Christ be upon you.....

In answer to your letter, I am able to reveal that Bishop john was charged and convicted on the following charges.
1.Sedition
2. Treason
3. Violations of the blood and honour laws- Speaking against them AND activily breaking them

It does greatly vex and discomfort me to have seen the evidence that lead to the conviction of Bishop John on these charges, no one was more greatly shocked than I at the very concept that a high ranking member of our faith could be part of such hate and sedition.....and it is my sad duty to report that the punishment for these crimes will be death.

As for your graces request that any evidence and case records be handed over for inspection, I am afraid this isnt possible due to our national security laws regarding trails information, I trust you understand.

I also hope you understand this isnt a attack on our beloved Mother Church. We are simply standing against those who are the enemies of God and creation.
CHRISTO DUCE!
B. Iesus

"O God..."
"be strong..and God be with you.."
The voice filtering through the wall ceased as the door to bishop Johns cell opened.

The leading guard tapped John on the shoulder "its time to go Bishop..."
"Jesus remember me.."


In the next cell the occupant prayed for the 'dead man' walking...
MOST MERCIFUL JESUS, lover of souls,
I beseech Thee, by the agony of Thy most Sacred Heart,
and by the sorrows of Thine Immaculate Mother,
wash clean in the Thy Blood the sinners of the whole world
who are to die this day.

Remember most especially the soul of Bishop John , I entrust him to Thy Shepherd's care....
I beseech Thee for grace for his Christian soul on this the day of his death

If it should please Thy Majesty to send me a suffering this day
in exchange for the grace I ask for this soul, then, it, too,
shall please me very much, and I thank Thee, Most Sweet Jesus,
Shepherd and Lover of Souls; I thank Thee for this
opportunity to give mercy in thanksgiving for all the mercies
Thou hast shown me. Amen.

Heart of Jesus, once in agony, have mercy on the dying.

The prophet of God Jesus would be pleased at the death of such a malcontent

~Sultan Omar

To her Excellency Bridgette Iesus

I utterly condemn your recent actions. When you say you are a Christian, you are either a liar or deluded. I insist that either you agree to meet with representatives appointed by his Holiness the Pope who will examine the conduct of yourself and your government--or that you agree to a UN examination of the matter. What you have done has gone beyond the pale of any moral human conduct.

Empress Aurora von Sachshausen

Empress Aurora von Sachshausen

For a nation in bed with the church hating hard line prodestants of greater prussia ...we dont think you can really tell us what is the "christian" ethic is....

We sleep soundly at night. what we did we did for national security...and we will proudly do it again!

Christo Duce!
B Iesus.