What is the Gaogong (高功)?

Gaogong 高功
Gaogong is the title of the chief deacon in Taoist rituals. Together with the *Jianzhai* (Supervisor of Fasts) and *Dujiang* (Chief Lecturer), they are collectively known as the "Three Ritual Masters," jointly presiding over fasting and ritual 斋醮 (zhaijiao) ceremonies.  

As the head of all deacons, the holder of the Gaogong position must "possess inner moral integrity, uphold outer ceremonial dignity, command the reverence of both heaven and humanity, and be respected by both spirits and gods." During the ceremony, they are required to "tread the celestial light at dawn, convey divine virtue with solemn bearing, extend benevolence to the three realms, and perform rituals with greater solemnity than all other officials."