Church of Massanet
"Some who use the church may not even be devote worshipers of Massanet, but simply people who have been wracked with the burdens and bustle of busy, stressful life. The quite, peaceful nature of the building allows anyone a place to tune out the world and calm down for just a moment."
Purpose / Function
The Church of Massanet is one of many building in Shonova designed to worship the dream divine Massenet the Dreamer. Here people learn and practice the art of Dream Walking, the ability to travel through a shared dream space.
It is important for those who enter to be respectful and quiet, and never speak above a soft whisper. It is meant to be a very calm, quiet and peaceful environment, with only the sounds of a slow trickling fountain and the burning of incense.
Offerings and Prayer
Many people come to the temple to request aid from Massanet, usually with problems involving the mind and emotions, such as anxiety, depression, insomnia, and more. This is done by writing a worry or wish down on a slip of paper, and burning it. One should also make a peaceful offering to Massanet by burning incense along with the wish, usually ones that produce pleasant smells like lavender, rose, or sweet cinnamon. It's believed that the smoke will rise and reach the clouds that surround Massanet's head, and they will hear the request and bless the person with good dreams and inner peace. It's considered respectful afterwards to return to the church and thank Massanet.Dream Walking
People may come into the church to practice walking in the dream world. There is a room in the back full of comfortable matts on the floor where one can take a nap and enter the dream world. Those who enter this way have a chance of speaking with Massanet in person, which can be a more personal and rewarding experience than simply burning a wish.The Dream Festaval
Massanet is always asleep, but they sleep walk around Kollark. Once a year, they will pass through Shonova and pass by the church. The Shonovan's host a festival during this time where they take a vow to only speak in whisper for the day. People are given days off from work and make sweet foods to share with others. People also leave offerings of stuffed animals for Massanet to take as they pass through, and it's traditional to sing the 'Lullaby of Massanet' when they are around.
Type
Temple / Church
Comments
Author's Notes