Cults are a very important aspect of life in the World of Teréth End. Most people of the world closely associate themselves with one Cult or another. Membership in a Cult has very important personal significance to most people. For some, Cult membership sets them on a life course which promises an eternal reward. For others, there are more tangible benefits. Within the the Fourth Age, there are very few skeptics which would argue against the promise that such devotion offers.
Aside from considerations of the hereafter, most Cults also offer an essential support community. In addition to the benefits of social networking and material support, Cults have been known to offer legal representation by means of “character defense”. In a world where there are few “rights” which an individual can hope to have recognized and protected by the powers-that-be, having respected community and/or religious representatives willing to act as character defendants (i.e., wapentake court) could be invaluable. Example: An Oðan who is accused of a crime by the High Lord’s soldiery may find help within the Cult of Roð if he has a history of regular tithing. In such cases, having priests willing to speak on behalf of your moral character is often all that is required for a case to be dismissed, for no one (in Oð) wants to discount the judgment of priests.
The requirements for membership vary between Cults. Membership in a Cult is not as simple as “believing” in one god over another. Many Cults require that the person learn and memorize a core set of tenets, scriptures, and prayers before membership can be considered. Tithing according to one’s means may also be required. Official membership is often confirmed with a local ritual/celebration where others in the community can meet (and sometimes approve of) the initiate. This event usually coincides with a holy day or feast.