 |
| When The Black Veil first came to existence, it was very much inspired by the Traditions from the role playing game Vampire: The Masquerade, which was something unacceptable for the real vampire community. Later, came the revised and updated version by Father Todd and Michelle Belanger, known as the "Thirteen Rules of Community", which was away from any RPG influence, and more suitable to the needs of the vampire community at that time. In October of 2003, Representatives of the Vampire Church, Bloodlines, the Sanguinarium, and individuals from many other independent organizations met to give rise to a second version of the Black veil that was released few weeks later. The new version is trimmed down from thirteen back to seven rueles, it's language is more simple and less goth and it plainly explains the ethics valued by majority of the vampire community Here's the most current version of the Black Veil:. |
| DISCRETION : Respect yourself and present yourself so that others also respect you. Take care in revealing your nature. Explain what you are, not to shock, but to teach and to inform. Do not flaunt what you are, and know that whether you want them to or not, your actions will reflect upon the rest of the community. Share your nature only with those with the wisdom to understand and accept it, and learn to recognize these poeple. |
 |
| DIVERSITY : Among us, there are many different practices and many points of view. No single one of us has all the answers to who and what we are. Respect each person's individual choices and beliefs. Learn about them and share what you know. Our diversity is our strength, and we should not allow misunderstanding to weaken our community. Find the path that is right for you and uphold this freedom for others. |
|
| CONTROL : Do not allow your darkness to consume you. You are more than just your hunger, and you can exercise conscious control. Do not be reckless. Always act with a mind toward safety. Never feed because you think this makes you powerful; feed because this is what you must do. Be true to your nature, but never use it as an excuse to endanger those around you. |
|
| ELDERS : Give respect to those who have earned it. Anyone can claim a title, but a true leader will prove him or herself through dedication, hard work, and great deeds. Evene so, leaders should be guides and not dictators. Look to them as examples, but always decide for yourself what you must do. Respect the person, not the position, and understand that your choices are always your own. |
|
| BEHAVIOR : Know that there are repercussions to every action, and that you alone are responsible for your decisions. Educate yourself about risky behaviors, then always act with wisdom and common sense. Do not allow others to abuse you, but also, do not selfishly abuse. Respect the rights of others and treat them as you would be treated. |
|
| DONORS : Feeding should occur between consenting adults. Allow donors to make an informed decision before they give of themselves to you. Do not take rapaciously from others, but seek to have an exchange that is pleasent and beneficial for all. Respect the life that you feed upon and do not abuse those who provide for you. |
|
| COMMUNITY : Reach out to others in your community. Exchange ideas, information, and suport. Be hospitable to others, and appreciate hospitality when it is extended to you. Do not engage in illegal activity, for this can endanger us all. Seek to nurture our community and support all those who do the same. ------- Written by Father Todd circa 1998 and revised by Michelle Belanger in 2000 & 2003. |
|
 |
|
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |