Order of the Pelican

The Order of the Pelican is one of the four Society-wide peerages Holders of this award are recognized for their significant services to the Society. Bestowed by the Crown the award bestows a Patent of Arms.

Members of the order are titled "Master" or "Mistress" or other ethnic or linguistic variation.

In the medieval world, it was thought that the pelican would pierce itself in the breast to provide nourishment for its young. The pelican therefore became a symbol of self-sacrifice.

Companions of the order are entitled to wear a badge of either A pelican vulning herself or A pelican in her piety. In modern terms, the award is sometimes considered a "A lifetime service award."

Members of the Order of the Pelican are entitled to take associates who are known as protégés.

See also a listing of Members of the Order of the Pelican or the Avacal OP

An essay concerning the requirements to become a Pelican.