The Most Illustrious Order of Saint Michael the Archangel, commonly known as the Order of Saint Michael, is a prestigious honour conferred by the Principality of Kaharagia. Established alongside the principality itself, this Order represents the pinnacle of recognition and respect, second only to the esteemed Valor Cross.
The Order comprises an exclusive assembly, including the Prince of Kaharagia, who serves as the Sovereign Lord and Master, the Principal Knight Companion—a senior member of the Royal Family—and fifteen other distinguished individuals conferred the titles of Knights or Ladies Companion.
Privileges of Membership
Members of the Order receive various ceremonial and honorary benefits. They rank after the Royal Family and before the Counts of the Realm in the order of precedence. Members are granted the exclusive privilege to carry a sword at court and to attend the Assembly of Notables, should it be convened. They also enjoy priority seating at significant Kaharagian events and receive jubilee medals and other honorary distinctions appropriate for their elevated status.
Additionally, Companions of the Order are eligible for a grant of arms complete with supporters. Their personal coat of arms can be surronded by the collar of the Order. Unlike some orders, in Kaharagia, Knights and Ladies Companion are not referred to with the prefix “Sir” or “Dame.” Instead, they use the post-nominal letters ‘CM’. The honour of being dubbed with a sword unique to this Order is notable, although it is not mandatory. Importantly, non-citizens conferred this honour are automatically entitled to Kaharagian citizenship if they claim it.
Admittance
Membership to this prestigious Order is not open for applications or nominations; it is the Sovereign’s sole prerogative to confer this honour. Consequently, all Companions of the Order are distinguished individuals who have demonstrated extraordinary service and dedication to Kaharagia. For instance, Her Royal Highness Princess Sheilla is a Lady Companion due to her royal status, while The Count Lupro, The Baron White, and The Baron Lessem have been honoured for their significant contributions in time and resources to the principality.
Only once has a Companion been removed from the Order—a consequence of treachery, underscoring the high standards upheld by this Order.
Insignia of the Order
The insignia includes a golden collar adorned with Eagles of Jupiter interspersed with disks depicting Saint Michael, from which a cross is suspended. The cross, bearing the radiant image of Saint Michael surrounded by the Order’s motto, takes the form of a white enamelled Maltese cross. The large collar, however, is not always practical for everyday wear, so members may choose to wear the cross suspended from a neck ribbon or a bow (for ladies not in uniform). It should be noted that all insignia remain the property of the Sovereign and must be returned upon a Companion’s death, resignation, or removal.
Current Companions of the Order
| Number | Companion’s Name | Office | Date of Appointment |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | His Royal Highness The Prince (Maximilian) of Kaharagia | Sovereign Lord and Master | 16 July 2010 |
| 2 | Her Royal Highness Princess Sheilla | 16 July 2010 | |
| 3 | His Royal Highness Prince Raymond, Count Ericksen | 16 July 2010 | |
| 4 | His Grace The Count (Eugene) Lupro | Chancellor | 16 July 2011 |
| 5 | Bishop William Myers | 16 July 2012 | |
| 6 | His Excellency The Baron (Erik) White | 16 July 2012 | |
| 7 | His Excellency The Baron (Martin) Lessem | 16 July 2017 |