The history of the Pontifical Swiss Guard is a rich one. Founded by Pope Julius II in 1506, the guard is directly dependant on the Holy See, and its main duties were to guard the person of the Roman Pontiff and the Apostolic Palaces.
The date of May 6 is the traditional date for the swearing-in ceremony because on that date in 1527, 147 members of the 189-member Swiss Guards lost their lives during the Sack of Rome when they fell in battle, protecting Pope Clement VII and the Church from the onslaught of the troops of Emperor Charles V.
This year’s ceremony will begin at 7:30 a.m. with Mass in St. Peter's Basilica for the Swiss Guards and their family members and friends. At 9 a.m., Archbishop Leonardo Sandri will confer military decorations on members of the corps, and fallen members of the guard will be honored as the commander of the guards places a laurel wreath at a special monument to them.
The formal oath will then be read by the Swiss Guard chaplain, which says, "I swear to faithfully, loyally and honorably serve the Supreme Pontiff Benedict XVI 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”, it continues, “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 recruits will each then, be called by name and, in his native tongue, confirm the oath.