Golden Gospel
The so-called Golden Gospel has become the dominant force in the Church of Charos, God of Commerce. Their gilded pyramids rise in all the major cities of the world, drawing in congregations of thousands. Their clergy, the "Profits" promise the faithful that they too can become wealthy and powerful... as long as the Profits get their cut.
Your ol' pal Sgt. Kill Flayer has seen a lot of scams over the years, but this one's one of the most successful! They tell you it's not a scheme, but their temple is a literal pyramid covered in gold! I trust the vampires more! At least they don't lie about wanting to suck your blood!
The Golden Gospel boils down to a simple and straightforward transaction. The faithful are promised a ten-fold return on their tithes, as long as they are faithful. The more you "invest" the more you shall receive back. Those that do not get a return on their money are obviously unfaithful.
The leaders of the Gospel, the Profits, fervently preach the ten-fold doctrine. They wear the best clothes, have the largest houses, and travel in the most luxurious vehicles. They promise that their followers can become as wealthy as them. As long as they can continuously provide substantial tithes to participate in worship services.
Draconic Connections
A large portion of the congregation is made up of dragonborn who still have a touch of draconic avarice in their souls. They believe in the concept of draco-morphosis, that if they can accumulate enough wealth, they can transform into true dragons.
The Golden Gospel is actually run by dragons who have discovered that religious fervor is the quickest way to increase the size of their hoards. Indeed draco-morphosis is actually possible. Dragonborn who acquire enough wealth and sleep on their hoards can actually transform themselves into true dragons.
Ooh, I couldn't resist reading the spoilers and that's awesome. What an interesting predicament to put your world and players into.
One of my kids is playing a dragonborn who did gather a hoard and turn into a dragon!
Take a look at my Institutions of Learning challenge article.
Learn about the World of Wizard's Peak and check out my award winning article about the Ghost Boy of Kirinal!