It was one of the toughest moments that took place in the Vatican in recent decade
“The court declares, Paolo Gabriele, guilty.”
A scandal that shook the very core of the then-pope, Benedict XVI. His personal assistant, Paolo Gabriele, had stolen confidential documents and leaked them to the press. It became known as the Vatileaks scandal.
Someone who was supposed to stand out for his discretion and loyalty—given that he sees and hears everything the pope does in private—had betrayed his trust.
That is why the appointment of a papal personal assistant is so delicate. And Pope Leo XIV has decided on a very particular candidate.
His choice is Anton Kappler, a lieutenant of the Pontifical Swiss Guard since February of 2001. He left his post at the end of January, as the Swiss Guard itself confirmed to Rome Reports. If you look closely at these images, he has already begun carrying out his new duties: loyalty, discretion, and security.
But what exactly does a papal assistant do? He is a discreet but central figure in the pope’s life. He is the guardian of the pope’s private life and the one who accompanies him in the most ordinary moments of his daily routine. No one doubts just how delicate this role is.
He is one of the pope’s most trusted confidants and one of the few silent witnesses to moments that the public will never know about.
Pope Leo's decision to choose a former Swiss Guard is striking, although it was true that he thought highly of the work of this small army.
This is how Pope Leo XIV spoke of them during the presentation of a documentary about the Swiss Guards produced by Rome Reports, just six months before his election as pontiff:
POPE LEO XIV
The presence of the Swiss Guard, with young men who give, with great sacrifice, years of their lives to serve, is of great value in the Vatican and for the Church.
I have great appreciation for their respect, for the formation they've received. For what their presence, especially as the guard of the Holy Father, which gives great, if you will, security on many levels
And it was not the only time he has demonstrated his affection for the Swiss guards. Pope Leo XIV revived the tradition of attending their swearing-in ceremony after they went 57 years without a papal presence.
Afterall, the Swiss Guards are extensive in their vows to the pontiff. During their appointment they swear, above all, to be loyal: “To serve the reigning pontiff faithfully, loyally, and honorably.”
BAM
CRT
