| In his early life, John I was the son of a poor Waldenian farmer with few prospects and a Curonian peasant woman. He grew up in Curonia, learning a lot about its culture. During his childhood, Ernst began to fancy an interest in religion. He met with the local priest, who taught him of the canon and the scrolls. Ernst, being inspired by the great stories of the Exalted told to him by the priest, decided to become an Acolyte and begin his training as a priest. Once his training was absolved and he had written his thesis, Ernst set out to become a wandering priest within the Empire of Man. It was during this time, the Heartland Schism came to be and Ernst was torn between the two sides. One, his friend and teacher, Bishop Elwood, as Daniel V , the other, the man he swore an oath of undying loyalty to, Pontiff Siegmund I.
Once the schism had come to a rest, young Ernst continued his works of theology and teachings. Along his route, Ernst was elevated to the title of Bishop of Villavia for his hard work and dedication. This position was not to last though, for a few months later, Pontiff Pontian II elevated Ernst to the title of Bishop of Avalain, making Ernst the spiritual leader of his own home. This sparked joy in Ernst's heart, inspiring him to open a soup kitchen and promote religion within the region. In this task, Ernst succeeded, making Curon a religious hub for Canonists. Despite the former pagan presence, Ernst managed to convert hundreds of them to the Canonist faith.
Yet Ernst was torn once more between a schism, which occurred during the War of 2 Emperors. Once the schism has ended, from the ashes of the divided church, Pontiff Daniel VI rose. Daniel saw great potential in Ernst and elevated him to Archbishop and the College of Cardinals. Alongside this, Ernst was invited into the Curia as Prelate of the Priesthood. A position in which he brought many young men and women to the cloth. Many years after this, Daniel VI, seeing Ernst's dedication, elevated him to the position of Vice Chancellor. This position, which entitled the greatest income and responsibility within the church, drove Ernst to donate many of his possessions, feeling he does not deserve such.
Furthermore, after many years of service under Daniel VI, the Pontiff died of gout, leaving Ernst to lead the Church during Sede Vacante. Here, in the Election of 1737, the College of Cardinals convened and commenced the election of the new holy father and successor of Daniel VI. Out of the candidates, Ernst was chosen for his long lasting experience. He took the name of Saint Johannes, naming himself High Pontiff John the first.
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