Pontiff

The Pontiff of the Watch of the Eternal Flame is equal parts holy leader and commander-in-chief. Great trust and faith is put into the person most believed to be chosen by Mastro themselves, and from this trust, the Pontiff is allowed to exert almost complete authority over the goings on of this church and it's paramilitary elements.

Requirements

The only consistent requirement for someone to be considered to become the Pontiff is to be either be a General, or the equivalent rank of High Bishop. In either case, to have reached such an esteemed position, the individual would have already been forced to have lead others in the faith, and intimately familiar with both doctrone of the church, and the current strategies of the leaders to fight the evils of the world.

Appointment

When the Pontiff passes, or otherwise becomes unable to perform their duties, the leaders are called to collaborate and vote on a replacement. The Generals and High Bishops are sworn to secrecy, and will continue to deliberate until a choice has been made. How they make the choice, and who all is considered before a new pontiff is chosen, is only for them to know.

Duties

The full duties and expectations of the Pontiff have changed over time. Since the Triumverate War has come and gone, and the dawn of the Third Age has proven to be a challenging one, much of the Pontiffs attention is spent on managing the various areas where the Watch is openly combatting known threats, and strategizing for larger victory. They are also responsible for addressing questions of faith, and being the face and voice of the church for the believers and adherents who are not fully ready to commit to the Watch.

Grounds for Removal/Dismissal

Only one Pontiff has been dismissed through the history of the Watch. Alahna Vosh proved to be both ineffective, inconsiderate, and corrupt. Her misdeeds nearly destroyed the Watch, and as such the Watch has taken strong precautions to prevent subsequent disasters.

Unfortunately, this also meant a prohibition of homosexual partners and relationships. Mastro makes no such rules against the pairings, but the church doctrine prohibiting it has yet to be revoked.

Form of Address

Eminence, Holiness,

Length of Term

Life

Current Holders

• Dehnik Phar

Past Holders

• Alahna Vosh

Related Organizations

• The Watch of the Eternal Flame