The Pontifical Swiss Guard’s Newest Recruits Join the World's Oldest Standing Army, in Photos
The recruits pledged allegiance in the Vatican ceremony and vowed to protect the pope as the Guard marked a new intake of 28 members.
- On Wednesday, May 6, 2026, 28 new recruits joined the Pontifical Swiss Guard during a swearing-in ceremony in the Paul VI Hall at the Vatican, attended by Pope Leo XIV and the President of the Swiss Confederation.
- Commander Christoph Graf reflected on the modern understanding of service, offering a critical perspective. He argued that being there for others lies at the core of being human and is not a lowly or degrading act.
- Dressed in distinctive yellow, blue, and red uniforms, the new guards pledged to defend the Holy Father. Their mission ensures the Pope can continue his ministry as the successor of the Apostle Peter without hindrance.
- Pope Leo thanked the guards' families for attending the ceremony. He expressed his "esteem and gratitude" for the newly sworn-in recruits who follow the model of Jesus Christ.
- Expressing hope for the recruits, Graf encouraged the young men to dedicate themselves to the good of the community. He stressed their oath is not merely formal but a promise to grow personally and deepen their sense of vocation.
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The Pontifical Swiss Guard’s newest recruits join the world’s oldest standing army, in photos
VATICAN CITY — Recruits joined the Vatican’s Pontifical Swiss Guard, the world’s oldest standing army, in a swearing-in ceremony presided over by Pope Leo XIV. The new guards suited up in distinctive yellow, blue and red uniforms and pledged to defend and serve the pope. This is a photo gallery curated by AP photo editors. Pontifical Swiss Guards prepare ahead of their swearing in ceremony, at the Vatican, Wednesday, May 6, 2026. (Credit: Andre…
The 28 new soldiers of the Swiss Guard, the smallest and oldest army in the world, gave their solemn oath of service to Pope Leo XIV this Wednesday at a ceremony in the Vatican.
The Pontifical Swiss Guard’s newest recruits join the world's oldest standing army, in photos
VATICAN CITY (AP) — Recruits joined the Vatican’s Pontifical Swiss Guard, the world’s oldest standing army, in a swearing-in ceremony presided over by Pope Leo XIV. The new guards suited up in distinctive yellow, blue and red uniforms and pledged to defend and serve the pope. This is a photo gallery curated by AP photo […]
Pope tells new Swiss Guards 'my esteem and gratitude to you'
Pope Leo XIV voiced esteem and gratitude to the 28 latest recruits to the world's smallest and oldest army after they were sworn into the Swiss Guard on Wednesday. To you, dear young people who have taken the Oath, I express my esteem and gratitude. (ANSA)
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