A canoness is the commander of the Sororitas' Orders Militant. She achieves her position by raising through the ranks of her order by exhibiting remarkable prowess in leadership, tactics, combat skills, obedience and compliance with the Ecclesiarchy, and above all, faith in the Emperor. Despite being below the prioress in the order's hierarchy, she usually enjoys priority when concerning military matters.
Apart from the martial duties, a canoness also performs a function similar to the Adeptus Astartes' chaplains, being responsible for the spiritual well-being and purity of the battle sisters under her. Quotidian charges include leading prayer services, performing rites of initiation, and overseeing the running of the Order.
Notable Canonesses
- Galatea - Canoness of the Order of Our Martyred Lady in Neva.
- Selena Agna - Canoness of the Order of The Sacred Rose, sent to purge the Kaurava system.
Sources
- Dawn of War: Soulstorm
- Faith and Fire (novel) by James Swallow
- White Dwarf 380 (UK), p. 95