The Cleansing Dawn

The Cleansing Dawn is a sacred holiday celebrated at the dawn of the first day of spring. It marks the renewal of the world and the continuous unfolding of the Song of Creation. Worshipers believe that as light returns to the world after the dark and cold of winter, they too must undergo a personal and communal purification, casting off the dissonance of the past and realigning themselves with the divine harmony.

Primary Related Location

The Dark Syde

Related Organizations

• The Radiant Choir
• Worshipers of the Choir

Symbolism

• Dawn represents the emergence of light and clarity after darkness.
• Spring symbolizes renewal, growth, and the eternal nature of the Song.
• Light Offerings are made to symbolize personal enlightenment and the collective illumination of the world.
• Water and Fire are sacred elements of purification used throughout the rites.

Preparations

In the days leading up to The Cleansing Dawn, adherents engage in:

1. Decluttering and Cleansing their homes and sacred spaces to symbolize casting out discord.
2. Reflection and Confession, where they meditate on the past year's actions, seeking to identify and release internal discord.
3. Crafting Light Offerings—candles, lanterns, and glowing crystals are prepared to be offered during the main ritual.

Main Ritual

The celebration begins in the darkest hours of night, leading up to sunrise:

1. Procession of Light
   Worshipers gather before dawn in silence, carrying their light offerings. They form a procession and walk in a circle around a central altar, symbolizing the eternal and cyclical nature of the Song.
2. Choral Invocation
   As the first rays of dawn appear, the faithful raise their voices in harmony, singing hymns dedicated to Solanna, Aetherion, and Corynne. The choral hymn is believed to resonate with the Song of Creation, realigning the souls of those present.
3. Purification Rite
   Each worshiper steps forward to place their light offering on the altar. A priest of the Radiant Choir blesses them with sacred water, symbolizing the washing away of discord.
4. The First Light
   At the moment of sunrise, the High Priest or Priestess lights a large ceremonial lantern called The Beacon of Harmony, which is kept burning throughout the entire day. This symbolizes the eternal light of the Luminary and the renewed harmony of the faithful.

Communal Feast

Following the morning ritual, worshipers gather for a communal feast featuring light, fresh foods such as fruits, vegetables, and bread. The feast is a time for joy, unity, and celebration of the renewal of life. Music and dance are common during this part of the holiday, with special songs written to honor each of the Harmonic Deities.

Final Prayer at Dusk

As the sun sets, the faithful gather once more for a final prayer. They thank the Luminary for the day’s light and reaffirm their commitment to living in harmony with the Song. The day ends with the extinguishing of the Beacon of Harmony, symbolizing the trust that the light of the Song will continue to burn in their hearts.

Cultural Variations

• Solanna’s Sect emphasizes the dawn procession and the lighting of the Beacon.
• Corynne’s Sect includes vibrant decorations with flowers and colors to represent the return of life and growth.
• Aetherion’s Sect focuses on the choral hymns and their harmonization, sometimes performing intricate musical compositions said to mirror the celestial symphony.