The Most Holy Pontifical Order of the Eagle The Most Holy Pontifical Order of the Eagle is a religious-dynastic order associated with the Pontifical Imperial 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. The Most Holy Pontifical Order is the principal division of the Pontifical Order of the Eagle. This distinguished Order symbolizes the preservation of Christianity within the Roman Empire and its rich history. The order is given in one rank, Bailiffs. It is given only as a co-honour with the Aquiline Order of Christ. Indeed, it is from this union that the name "Aquiline" came to be applied to the Oder of Christ. And, dDue to its historical significance and stringent admission criteria, this Order is considered one of the most exclusive Christian orders of chivalry. FEAST DAYS OF THE ORDER Principle: Corpus Christi 2nd: Sacred Heart 3rd: Immaculate Conception of the B.V.M. 4th: Invention of St. Stephen 5th: St. Patrick Armourial of Knights Statutes of the Order Wear of Deocrations of the Pontifical and Imperial Orders Grand Collar of the Bailiffs Heraldic badge of the order Above: Chapel of Pope St. John Paul II in the Basilica of St. Peter, Vatican L: Julius Caesar. R: Caesar Augustus Collarette of Bailiffs, worn as an alternative to the full collar. Cordon of Knights/Dames of Christ, held by Bailiffs of the Most Holy Pontifical Order. Star of the order. (There is a single star for the Most Holy Pontifical Order and the Order of Christ.) Examples of greater (full size) and miniature eagles of the Most Holy Pontifical Order in two different designs, with various stones. Lapel Ribbon Uniform Service Ribbon Church robes of Bailiffs of the Most Holy Pontifical Order (Knights/Dames of Christ) (worn over a scarlet habit with matching fascia and gold tassel) The church mantle (see below) is red with white lining and 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. Hereditary Officers of the Pontifical Order of the Eagle Sovereign - H.A.H. the Roman-Ruthenian Pope* Prince Grand Master - H.P.I.H. Grand Duke Ralph of Etruria* Hereditary Deputy Grand Master - H.E. the Count di Santa Croce Appointed Officers Marshal:  H.M.E.I.R.H. Grand Duke Douglas v. Rome-Frankfurt Vice Marshal: H.R.S.H. the Prince of Friuli and Chíquiza* Chancellor: H.P.I.H. Grand Duke Alexander* Vice Chancellor: H.E. the Marquis of Orsha* Registrar: Chev. K. Day Eagle King of Arms: H.M.E.I.R.H. Grand Duke Douglas v. Rome-Frankfurt * Indicates a member of the Most Holy Pontifical Order. Joint brevet conferring both the Order of Christ and the Most Holy Pontifical Order.