WHAT IS the temple of the ark?
We use writings, metaphors, and iconography to depict Earth and other entities as 'arks'—sacred vessels carrying profound purposes, akin to Noah’s Ark and the Ark of the Covenant.
**Missions of the Temple
Pursue Enlightenment
Dedicating ourselves to seeking and sharing wisdom and knowledge, uplifting humanity’s collective understanding.
Champion Sustainability and Joy
Work toward a future where health, happiness, and harmony with nature prevail.
Uphold Integrity
Embody honesty, honor, loyalty, and respect, setting a standard for others to follow.
Practice Compassion
Extend forgiveness and mercy to those who sincerely seek reconciliation, fostering healing and growth.
Aspire to Transcendence
Seeking unity with the divine and a higher purpose, guiding others toward spiritual fulfillment.
**Categorization of the Temple
Neo-Christian
Humanist
**Voting for Councilors, Grand Master, and the King/Queen of the Ark Angels
Councilors, Grand Masters, and Kings/Queens of the Ark Angels are elected by a majority vote, by the Ark Angels. The term is 7 years for Councilors. Lifetime for the Grand Master and King/Queen of the Ark Angels.
The King/Queen of the Ark Angels or Grand Master may request the Ark Angels to vote a majority to remove a Councilor of their order if they pose an immediate danger to the Temple, the Ark Knights, or the Ark Angels. All other avenues for mediation must be exhausted.
A Councilor, also against dire circumstances, can trigger a vote by the Ark Angels to remove a Grand Master or King/Queen of the Ark Angels. A majority of their order must vote in favor of removal before it proceeds to vote by the Ark Angels.
**Forge of Beliefs & Laws
Any Ark Angels may make a case for or against current or future beliefs and laws. The Council as well as the King/Queen will hold a hearing once yearly. Ark Angels may remake a case the next year if it is denied.
**Voting for Beliefs & Laws
A majority vote by the Council is required to approve beliefs or laws. After that, the Ark Angels must vote a majority in favor of approval. The approved beliefs are added to the Book of Beliefs. Approved laws are added to the Book of Laws.
**Qualities of an Ark Angel
Striving for unity with the Laws of the Ark Angels
Falling short of unity with the Laws doesn't remove the title from an individual as long as they truly repent. We believe repentance should be made directly to the creator/God/the Lord/etc. A Minister may act as an intermediary if you wish.
**Council Seats
Throne of the Carpenter
1 + Optional 1 (The King or Queen’s partner can assume the other role. Will hold no authoritative power.)
Council of the Ark Angels
7
Council of the Ark Knights
7
**Unity
Brings the public together for prayer, reflection, conversation, guidance, and community. Will probably be monthly, possibly a post-dinnertime thing. Starting mid-2025?
**Finances
The King/Queen of the Ark Angels, Grand Master, Councilors, Ministers, or Keepers shall not collect a wage for their services to the Temple. Their services are a testament to their passion for our missions and beliefs. All services rendered to the Temple or Orders are done voluntarily, for the greater good. Donations collected will be spent on maintaining the website and services for at-risk populations.
**Stance on Jesus
We believe that acknowledging Jesus as the Christ, Lord, God, the Son of God, or in other ways is a personal decision and doesn’t always happen at the same age for everyone. Regardless, this Temple believes your value and salvation remain and you will always be welcome on our grounds for peace. We believe this is what Jesus would want. ('Father, forgive them; for they do not know what they are doing.’) (Luke 23:34)
Our Temple will use scripture and Good Works to emphasize the significance of Jesus while maintaining a middle ground for discussion on his divinity.