The Trials of the Holy Men of Westrun, a pronouncement of the Patriarch

Whereas, we have undertaken a thorough study of a phenomenon which has come to afflict our holy brothers in this Land, and in all the others where they might be found;

And whereas we hope to dispel any fears that the faithful might hold with respect to the integrity and fidelity of those who labor along side of them;

And whereas, it would seem to please the great God to bestow upon some of the most highly ranked and greatly esteemed members of his clergy, a puzzling affliction;

We, Ulric of Peakshadow, by the grace of God, Patriarch of His Holy Faith do declare the following findings with respect to that which is known as the Divine Abandonment, or in the common speech, the Trials:

• One, that it is known that many of the Shepherds and Cloistered are no longer given favor sufficient to work the miracles that the faithful have come to expect of them. Instead, they must labor without any power, but the trappings of office to sustain them.
• Two, that this should not be assumed to be a curse, nor an indication of judgment against such men and women; who are afflicted. For arguing against this possibility are the impeccable reputations of those most often afflicted.
• Three, that as the old temple of the imposter gods is finally defeated and destroyed, it may be that the great God wishes to teach men obedience and consistency without the working of signs and miracles among mortal men.
• Four, that in no case should a worker of miracles, who is as yet untouched by the affliction be given pre-eminence over the brothers who are so afflicted. For it is well known that not all gifts are given equally and where some are strong, others are weak, but this should not affect the spheres established by our Worthy predecessors.

So set I my signature, this 19th day of the Second Mon of Summer, in the year 5819 as the elves reckon time.