New Swiss Guards sworn in

National Catholic Reporter | 5/16/2003 | John L. Allen

[sinkspur]

One of the more colorful annual events in Rome is the swearing in of new Swiss Guards, which happens on May 6, the anniversary of the sack of Rome in 1527 when 147 guards died defending Pope Clement VII against Spanish and French mercenaries, the lanzichenecchi. This year 32 new guards were enrolled.

Some Catholics find the Swiss Guard a symbol of Vatican nostalgia for its regal past. Others find the idea of a papal army disturbing. But if you can bracket off those reactions and take the event on its own terms, it really is quite charming.

In an elaborate ceremony, the guards grasp the flag of the corps and raise their hands, extending the thumb and two fingers to symbolize the Trinity, and swear to defend the reigning pope and his successors to the death if necessary.

Guards are required to be Roman Catholics, male, between 19 and 30 in age, bachelors, taller than 5’9”, and of outstanding reputation. They only make about $1,000 a month, paid in Swiss Francs, although room and board are covered. The most difficult part of the job is the demanding schedule. During peak times of the year, guards might work 12-hour days, or more, for weeks. This includes weekends, especially Sundays.

One point of special interest this year was the entrance of the first person of color into the corps. Indian-born Dhani Bachmann, 23, was adopted as an infant by Swiss parents.

After each new guard takes the oath, the guards’ brass band gives an impromptu concert of oom-pah-pah numbers. A couple had the crowd in the Cortile di San Damaso, inside the pope’s Apostolic Palace, swaying and clapping. One imagines John Paul enjoyed it from upstairs.