High Exorcist
Overview
The position was established by unanimous vote of the Senate in Winter 377YE. The High Exorcist exists to advise the Military Council on the use of ceremonies on the battlefield. The intent is that the priest who holds the title will co-ordinate the use of liao against malign auras and creatures during Imperial military actions. A stipend was assigned to allow the High Exorcist to obtain, commission and distribute such items or works as are needed in support of this goal. Examples of the latter might include liao for use in ceremonies of exorcism or magical items such as a Templar's Cuculla or an Icon of the Justicar.
Responsibilities
The High Exorcist is expected to advise the Military Council on the use of religious ceremonies on the battlefield, and to co-ordinate volunteers using liao against malign auras and spiritual enemies.
Powers
The High Exorcist is an Imperial title in the Synod.
Right of Address
The High Exorcist has the right to make a address to the Imperial Military Council once per summit. This is intended to allow them to advise the Military Council on spiritual matters, to offer assistance or to ask for assistance in helping the priests of the Way to better support Imperial forces. To use this power, the High Exorcist informs the Herald of the Council that they wish to make an address, which willthen be added to the agenda for the next Council session.
Stipend
The High Exorcist receives a stipend of 7 Thrones each season from the Senate budget.
Selection
The High Exorcist is appointed by judgement of the Assembly of Nine, during the Winter Solstice. They serve a term of one year.
Removal
The High Exorcist can be revoked by a simple majority of the General Assembly.
History
During the Winter Solstice 377YE, the Assembly of Nine appointed the Urizen Solas of the Waxing Sun as the first High Exorcist by a greater majority; no other alternatives were considered.
The original motion to create the title attempted to grant the Right of Address in the Military Council, but at the time this was ruled unconstitutional. Further examination of the situation lead to a reversal of that decision in 378YE.
In Sring 379YE the Senate voted to increase the High Exorcist's stipend from the original 3 Thrones each season to 7 Thrones each season.