Reading an article in Rorate Caeli about the Guard, I though our readers would like to read the oath that each new Guard takes before God and his Commanding Captain. You may also want to review Eleonore Villarrubia’s article on the Swiss Guard for our website here.
“will faithfully, loyally and honourably 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 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!”
Each then individually approaches the corps’ banner and, holding it with one hand while raising three fingers (for the Trinity) in the other, affirms: “I, . . ., swear I will observe faithfully, loyally and honourably all that has now been read out to me! May God and his saints assist me!”
