From SuspireWiki

Paladin is a position within the Lancea Sanctum. Paladins are martial individuals that swear an oath of loyalty to a member of the clery, or to another member of the Sanctum who needs is (a Legate for example). Paladins sometimes submit to the Vinculum, but since many Sanctified frown upon this practice it doesn't happen too often. Paladins are well-trained individuals, and know a great deal about self defense and combat. The position of Paladin differs from that of Crusader in that the Paladin protects only one individual, rather than the whole covenant. Paladin is also a lay position, but it carries with it a modicum of Status.