Hagiarch (hagy-ark)
A Hagiarch is the highest rank of Priest/Priestess in the faith of the Pantheon of Heaven. Hagiarchs are chosen from among the Grand Ecclesiast and (nominally) Ecclesiast, although no Ecclesiast has been elevated to Hagiarch in hundreds of years.
Hagiarchs are the final word in all matters of the faith and the god's will or intentions. They are the ultimate augurs of the faith, and are purported to be able to commune directly with the divine plane. Hagiarchs, by the nature of their office, are believed to be able to prophetically see the future and transmit this vision to the faithful through various charisms, such as speaking in tongues. Unlike the other priestly ranks within the faith, Hagiarchs are not associated with any specific temple, shrine, abbey or other religious location. They travel freely and without restraint, only gathering in conclave to elect new members to their ranks. There are currently 51 living Hagiarchs within the Pantheon of Heaven faith.
Hagiarchs will occasionally meet in ordered conclaves to determine certain matters of faith, most frequently to determine who will next be elevated to the rank of Hagiarch. Hagiarchs also have the sole authority to enter any temple, shrine or sacrarium and to remove any (or all) the votive offerings kept within its vaults. Hagiarchs answer to no earthly authority... not even the King himself.
Appointment
Chosen by a conclave of other Hagiarchs
Benefits
All Hagiarchs can enter any temple, shrine or sacrarium and remove any or all contents of the votive vaults.
Accoutrements & Equipment
Hagiarchs wear robes and vestments similar to, but likely more elaborate than, most priestly vestments. The means by which they are immediately recognized as Hagiarch-rank is the ornate conical cap they are required to wear at all times. Typically covered in gold and studded with precious gemstones, this is the most obvious indicator of their position. All Hagiarchs are also given a symbolic golden key which grants them access to any votive vault associated with a Temple or Grand Temple anywhere in the world.
Grounds for Removal/Dismissal
Death alone.
Type
Religious, Special
Form of Address
His/Her High Holiness
Equates to
Primate, Pontiff, Patriarch
Source of Authority
Pantheon of Heaven
Length of Term
Life
Current Holders
Related Organizations
