Pope Leo XIV has attended the swearing-in of the latest batch of Swiss Guards at the Vatican. The ceremony sees the new guards promising to protect the Pope, even with their lives if necessary.
The event took place in the Vatican's San Damaso Courtyard as the 27 new members were sworn into the ranks of the papal guard on Saturday, 4 October. This year's ceremony had been postponed from the traditional date of 6 May due to the conclave that saw Leo elected as Pope.
It was the first time a pope has attended the ceremony since the pontificate of Pope Paul VI in 1968.
“To all of you who have made this oath: it is a very important witness in today’s world,” Pope Leo said. “It shows us the value of discipline, of sacrifice, of living the faith in a way that truly speaks to young people – about the value of giving one’s life, of serving and thinking of others.
“I thank you in my name and on behalf of the entire Holy See for your service.”
During the ceremony, the Swiss Guard chaplain addressed the new guards: "We are proud of you, and grateful that you have responded to the call to this honourable service, which you now swear to carry out conscientiously and faithfully.”
He then recited the oath to be taken by each of the new guards:
“I swear to serve faithfully, loyally and honourably the Supreme Pontiff Leo XIV and his legitimate successors, and to dedicate myself to them with all my strength, even sacrificing my life if necessary for their defence.
"I also assume these obligations toward the College of Cardinals during the time of a vacant See. I furthermore promise respect, loyalty and obedience to the Commander and my other superiors. I swear it. So help me God and our Holy Patrons.”
The Vatican and Swiss anthems were played and then the new guards were called forward individually by the Swiss Guards sergeant major – with each of the 27 approaching the flag of the Corps, grasping it and pronouncing the oath.
The San Damaso Courtyard was decorated with the flags of each of the Swiss Cantons. The Swiss President attended the ceremony, along with cardinals, other clergy, and civil and military officials. Family, friends and benefactors of the new guards also attended the decorous event, along with former guards.
The ceremony lasted just over an hour and concluded with a short concert performed by the Swiss Guard band.
Photo: Pope Leo XIV attends the swearing-in ceremony of new Swiss Guard recruits in the San Damaso courtyard of the Apostolic Palace at the Vatican, 4 October 2025. (Photo by ANDREAS SOLARO/AFP via Getty Images.)
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