Since 1968, no pope has presided over the oath of the Swiss Guard. The last was Pope Paul VI. It makes sense for a pontiff to be present. After all, these new recruits swear, in this case, to defend Pope Leo XIV, even to the point of giving their lives if necessary. This is how the ceremony began.
There were 27 new soldiers who joined the 135 members of the pope’s personal guard. Although it may seem that they are only stationed at the entrances of the Vatican, their work goes far beyond that.
For example, even when not wearing these striking uniforms, they provide the pope’s protection on all apostolic trips, both inside and outside Italy.
This was what the commander of the Swiss Guard expressed to the pope minutes before the oath.
CHRISTOPH GRAF
Holy Father, with this oath, each guard commits to serving you with all his strength and, if circumstances require, even to sacrifice his life.
Every detail of how the new recruits swear the oath has a reason. They may do it in Italian, German, or French, three of the official languages of Switzerland depending on the canton.
Then the moment arrived. Each of the 27 candidates approached the standard of the Swiss Guard, holding the flag with the left hand and raising the right hand with three fingers extended, symbolizing the Holy Trinity.
The recruits also recited the oath aloud, which reads as follows.
I, halberdier, swear that I will faithfully, loyally, and honorably observe all that has just been read. May God and our holy patrons help me.
The ceremony was accompanied by the sound of drums and applause.
After witnessing the entire ceremony, Pope Leo XIV addressed a short message to his new guards.
POPE LEO XIV
This is a very important testimony in today’s world. It helps us understand the importance of discipline, sacrifice, and living our faith in a way that truly conveys to all young people the value of giving one’s life, of serving, and of caring for others. I thank you in my name and in the name of the entire Holy See for your service.
At the end of the ceremony, the pope greeted the president of the Swiss Confederation, who attended the event and had met with him in the days prior.
Trans. VL
