Thirty-four new recruits of the Swiss Guard entered the so-called Courtyard of Saint Damasus, inaugurating the traditional swearing-in ceremony.
With their left hand on the corps' flag and three fingers raised, symbolizing the Holy Trinity, each one swore to faithfully serve Pope Francis and his successors. They declared that, if necessary, they would protect them with their own lives.
The Swiss Guard chaplain read the oath formula…
I swear to serve faithfully, loyally, and honorably the reigning Pontiff and his legitimate successors, to devote myself to them with all my strength, sacrificing, if necessary, even my life for their defense.
And here is the response of each new Swiss Guard…
I, Halberdier Guard Scafetta, swear to faithfully, loyally, and honorably observe everything that has just been read to me. May God and our holy patrons assist me.
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In 1527, 147 Guards lived this commitment to the highest degree by defending Pope Clement VII against an invading army at the peril of their lives. This is why the swearing-in ceremony is celebrated each May 6th, to commemorate the anniversary of the Sack of Rome.