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Updated May 7th, 2021 at 15:46 IST

New recruits sworn in as Swiss Guards at Vatican

Thirty-four new Swiss Guard recruits were sworn in Thursday at the annual ceremony in the San Damaso courtyard of the Vatican's Apostolic Palace.

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Thirty-four new Swiss Guard recruits were sworn in Thursday at the annual ceremony in the San Damaso courtyard of the Vatican's Apostolic Palace.

The Swiss Guard Commander, Christoph Graf, commented on how "it was not possible for us to organize the ceremony in normal conditions this year" due to the COVID-19 pandemic, but did add thanks for being able to "make this a memorable day despite the extraordinary situation and the limitations."

The ceremony had a small mask wearing audience who watched the new Swiss Guards swear their allegiance while grasping the Vatican flag and holding up three fingers.

The Papal Swiss Guard was founded in 1506 and the swearing-in ceremony is held on May 6 to commemorate the death of 147 Swiss Guards, who lost their lives in the attempt to defend Pope Clement VII during the sack of Rome in 1527.

 

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Published May 7th, 2021 at 15:46 IST

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