March 6, 2013
(Romereports.com) The Swiss Guard is the
Pope's defense corps. The group includes 110 young men who vow to
defend the Pope at all costs. On the 28th of February, when Benedict
XVI's resignation became effective, the role of the Swiss Guard changed
temporarily.
DANIEL ANRIG
Swiss Guard Commander
“During
the Sede Vacante, the most important thing is to be available to the
chamberlain and to the College of Cardinals and to discreetly help them
and the Church of course, with whatever they may need.”
Commander
Daniel Anrig has led the team since August 19th, 2008, when Benedict
XVI appointed him head of the Swiss Guard. He was also appointed as a
lay member of the Papal household.
DANIEL ANRIG
Swiss Guard Commander
“It has been a privilege to serve as commander of the Swiss Guard. I
was able to meet with the Holy Father on many occasions and was
surprised by his friendliness. I was impressed by his humility. It's
something I will remember forever.”
Even though the Swiss Guard lives at the Vatican, they too had no idea about Benedict XVI's resignation.
DANIEL ANRIG
Swiss Guard Commander
“Some
guards were on duty, some were not, but without a doubt, ever Swiss
Guard was struck by the news, just like any other Catholic. Except it
was of course different because we live inside the Vatican. It was an
intense moment in which we knew we had to support the Pope.”
As a
member of the papal household, Anrig was present during the sealing of
the Pope's apartment. He was there, along with Cardinal Tarcisio
Bertone, who is now at the helm of the Church and the Vatican, during
this transition period.
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-PR
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