This marching procession of Swiss Guards initiated the swearing-in ceremony of 34 new recruits. The event took place in the St. Damasus Courtyard in the Vatican on May 6. It was a festive occasion everyone present.
After the traditional addresses and the band's performance came the long-awaited moment to take the oaths. Each recruit was called up to take the oath to faithfully, loyally and honorably serve the reigning Pontiff and his legitimate successors.
When taking the oath, each new recruit places his left hand on the Swiss Guard flag and raises three fingers of his right, symbolizing the Holy Trinity.
Because of the pandemic, attendance was limited mostly to family members of the new recruits.
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