One Aquiline Tradition ยท Two Expressions
The Joint Pontifical Orders of the Eagle
The Order of the Eagle embraces the Most Holy Pontifical Order, whose hereditary Bailiffs receive the Aquiline Order of Christ, and the wider Companions of the Eagle.
The Most Holy Pontifical Order
Conferred in one rank, Bailiff, jointly with the Aquiline Order of Christ. Together they form the Most Holy Pontifical Orders of Christ and the Eagle. Bailiffs hold hereditary knighthood within the Order, serve as advisers to the Roman-Ruthenian Pope, and bear the distinction of honorary cousins to His Apostolic Highness.
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Conferred in the grades of Bailiff of Honour, Knight or Dame Grand Cross, Knight or Dame Commander, and Knight or Dame. Since the decree of 2023, Bailiff of Honour is ordinarily held by heirs to Knights or Dames of Christ because the Bailiff dignity is hereditary while the Order of Christ itself is not.
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A Shared Spiritual Identity
Both expressions of the Order draw upon the Roman eagle as a sign of authority, vigilance, renewal, and service under Christ. Their separate grades and insignia preserve distinct responsibilities while maintaining one coherent aquiline tradition within the honours system of the Church and State.