Pope Leo XIV has attended the swearing-in of the latest batch of Swiss Guards at the Vatican. The ceremony sees the new guards promising to protect the Pope, even with their lives if necessary.

The event took place in the Vatican’s San Damaso Courtyard as the 27 new members were sworn into the ranks of the papal guard on Saturday, 4 October. The event had been postponed from the traditional date of May 6 due to the conclave that saw Leo elected as Pope.

It was the first time a pope has attended the ceremony since the pontificate of Pope Paul VI in 1968.

“To all of you who have made this oath: it is a very important witness in today’s world,” the Pope said. “It shows us the value of discipline, of sacrifice, of living the faith in a way that truly speaks to young people – about the value of giving one’s life, of serving, and thinking of others.

“I thank you in my name and on behalf of the entire Holy See for your service.”

The Vatican’s San Damaso Courtyard was decorated festively with the flags of each of the Swiss Cantons.

The ceremony was also attended by the Swiss President, as well as prelates, clergy, civil and military officials, along with family, friends, benefactors and former guards.

“We are proud of you, and grateful that you have responded to the call to this honourable service, which you now swear to carry out conscientiously and faithfully.,”said the Swiss guard chaplain.

He then recited the oath to be taken by the 27 Swiss guards:

“I swear to serve faithfully, loyally, and honourably the Supreme Pontiff Leo XIV and his legitimate successors, and to dedicate myself to them with all my strength, even sacrificing my life if necessary for their defence. I also assume these obligations toward the College of Cardinals during the time of a vacant See. I furthermore promise respect, loyalty, and obedience to the Commander and my other superiors. I swear it. So help me God and our Holy Patrons.”

The Vatican and Swiss anthems were played and then each of the recruits was called forward by the sergeant major – with each recruit approaching the flag of the Corps, grasping it and pronouncing the oath.

The ceremony lasted just over an hour and concluded with a short concert performed by the Swiss Guard band.

Photo: Pope Leo XIV attends the swearing-in ceremony of new Swiss Guard recruits in the San Damaso courtyard of the Apostolic Palace at the Vatican, 4 October 2025. (Photo by ANDREAS SOLARO/AFP via Getty Images.)