Gamasiel, later called the Founder, first served as a priest within the Decadon, the tenfold hierarchy of the elder gods worshiped in the Grand Temple. His steadfast insistence upon the supremacy of a Forgotten God — one unknown to the priesthood — brought him under suspicion and eventually trial for heresy. By all expectation he would have been condemned to death, but the High Priest Heimar, fearing to offend an unknown deity, stayed the judgment.
In an extraordinary act of clemency, Gamasiel was permitted to continue his private devotions to this mysterious God, though he was reduced to the humble role of shepherd within the temple arcade, tending the priests themselves as a servant.
Over the years, however, Gamasiel’s faith kindled the hearts of others. He gathered to himself seven acolyte-pledges, whom he instructed and consecrated into priesthood.
Together, Gamasiel and his Seven Followers declared themselves in opposition to the elder gods, sparking what became known as the War of the Gods.
This “war” was a nonviolent contest of power, fought through ten great challenges. In each, the servants of the Decadon sought to prove the might of their patrons, while Gamasiel invoked the Forgotten God. One by one, the signs and wonders manifested by Gamasiel’s God prevailed. When the tenth contest was won, the authority of the elder gods was broken.
In the aftermath, many priests of the Grand Temple converted to monotheism, while others deserted their posts in dismay. From this victory the Church of Westrun was born, and Gamasiel was acclaimed its first Patriarch.
To the faithful, Gamasiel is remembered as a prophet, miracle-worker, and fearless champion of the One God. He is honored as a Worthy, and his feast day is celebrated as the Day of the First Contest, when the faithful reenact the opening challenge to recall the triumph of truth over error.
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