|
|
|
|||||
|
|
The
Pontifical Order of the Eagle, also known as the Pontifical Order of
the Eagle of Saint Stephen and Mary Immaculate, is a religious-dynastic
order associated with the Pontifical Imperiale State and United
Roman-Ruthenian Church. Its origins can be traced back to Julius
Caesar, who established it as a military unit called the Ninth Spanish
Legion in 58 BC. It was later re-established as a Christian noble order
by Caesar Augustus and received the blessing of Pope St. John Paul II. This distinguished Order symbolizes the preservation of Christianity within the Roman Empire and its rich history. Knights are carefully chosen primarily from among the nobility based on their devotion to Christ, their service to the Church, and their demonstrated commitment. However, non-nobles who are admitted into the Order are automatically ennobled through their membership. Due to its historical significance and stringent admission criteria, this Order is considered one of the most exclusive Christian orders of chivalry. The Bailiffs, who hold hereditary knighthood within the Order, occupy a special position in Christian chivalry and serve as advisors to His Holiness, the Bishop of Rome-Ruthenia. They proudly carry the title of honorary cousins to His Holiness. Following the decree of December 2023, the rank of bailiff is no longer conferred as an independent honour, but only as a second honour automatically accompanying the conferral of the Aquiline Order of Christ. Since the rank of Bailiff is hereditary, but the Order of Christ is not, it is principally held by the heirs of the Knights of Christ. Thus, for those who are not Knights/Dames of Christ, the rank is known as Bailiff of Honour. The ranks of the order are:
1st Class: 2nd Class: 3rd Class: 4th Class: 5th Class: Wear of Deocrations of the Pontifical and Imperial Orders The primary ribbon of the order is a rich shade of royal blue, which symbolizes the coat of arms of the Bishop of Rome-Ruthenia. For Bailiffs of Honour (those granted the honour prior to 2024 and their heirs, and heirs of Knights/Dames of Christ), the ribbon for the special neck insignia is red and blue, representing the significance of Rome, St. Peter, and St. Stephen. The order's cross is an elegant blue with eight points, featuring a majestic Roman Eagle at its center and additional Eagles positioned between each of the four main points. Both Bailiffs (granted prior to 2024) and Knights/Dames Grand Cross proudly display the cross of the order on a sash worn over their right shoulder. These crosses are gracefully suspended from a gold oak leaf cluster embellished with diamonds and crossed swords. Bailiffs of Honour and Knights/Dames Grand Cross also have the honor of wearing a golden star adorned with a golden eagle upon a golden cross.
Uniform Service Ribbons: Bailiff (Knight of Christ), Bailiff of Honour (granted prior to 2024;thereafter for the heirs of the Knights of Christ), Knight Grand Cross, Commander, and Knight  Church robes of Bailiffs and Knights/Dames of Christ (worn over a scarlet habit with matching fascia and gold tassel) The royal blue with red lining (or red with white lining for Knights and Dames of Christ) church mantle (see below) is worn over this habit. The cap is red velvet with gold cords and a brim. Clerics wear a 4-winged red biretta with pompom, unless a cardinal, in which case the regular Cardinal's watered silk biretta is worn.  Church Robes of Knights and Dames (through the rank of Knight/Dame Grand Cross) For Bailiffs, the lining and trim are red. The cap is black velvet with gold cords and a brim. Clerics wear their usual biretta. Bishops and Prelates of the Pontifical Court also wear their proper cassock. Hereditary Officers
Sovereign
- H.H. the Bishop of Rome-Ruthenia Appointed Officers
Marshal:
H.Em.&I.R.H. Msgr. Grand Duke Douglas v. Rome-Frankfurt 
In
Memoriam Chev. John Refieuna,
In
Memorial H.E. the Count d. Charles Daniel II Johnson di S. Croce
|
