Home
 500th Anniversary of the Papal Swiss Guards Scott 1315-1316 (2005) Every year, May 6, all the members of the Swiss Guards take an Oath of Loyalty to the current pope in San Damaso Courtyard (the diplomatic entrance to the Apostolic Palace). That ceremony was held yesterday, as reported in the Vatican News article cited in the references. Swiss mercenaries were the finest in Europe and served as protection for rulers during the Renaissance era. In 1506, the Swiss Guards arrived in Rome to serve as protection for the papacy and Rome, having been invited by Pope Julius II. On May 6, 1527, 147 of the Guards (out of 189) died in defending Pope Clement VII (Guilio de Medici, 1523-1534) as he took refuge in Castel Sant’Angelo during the Sack of Rome. May 6 continues to be the date set aside for the Guards to renew their pledge to the pope. The oath taken by the members of the Swiss Guard states the following: "I swear I will faithfully, loyally, and honourably serve the Supreme Pontiff _____ and his legitimate successors, and also dedicate myself to them with all my strength, sacrificing if necessary also my life to defend them. I assume this same commitment with regard to the Sacred College of Cardinals whenever the See is vacant. Furthermore I promise to the Commanding captain and my other superiors, respect, fidelity and obedience. This I swear! May God and our Holy Patrons assist me! The ceremony held at the Vatican yesterday included the swearing in of thirty-four new recruits. Pope Francis offered his gratitude and reminded all that the Guard: “stands out for its quality, for its kind, attentive, scrupulous style”, and for its service which is always “generous and diligent.” References:   500th Anniversary of the Papal Swiss Guards, Minisheets Scott 1315M and 1316M (2005) |
