Pope Leo XIV Tells Swiss Guards Their "discipline, sacrifice, and living our faith in a way that truly speaks.... about the value of giving one's life, of serving" at Ceremony

Pope Leo XIV participated in the new Swiss Guard oath ceremony — something that hadn’t happened since the time of Paul VI. (Continues below the video)

Vatican News reported that for the swearing-in of 27 new Swiss Guard recruits, the Vatican's San Damaso Courtyard was decorated festively with the flags of each of the Swiss Cantons.
The Swiss President, as well as Prelates, clergy, and civil and military officials, and family, friends, benefactors, and former guards, were all present at what is a particularly significant moment in a Swiss Guard’s career.
“We are proud of you,” the Swiss guard chaplain said, “and grateful that you have responded to the call to this honorable service, which you now swear to carry out conscientiously and faithfully.” He then recited the oath: “I swear to serve faithfully, loyally, and honorably 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 defense. 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. One by one, called by the sergeant major, the recruits approached the flag of the Corps, grasping it, and pronouncing the oath. Then the Swiss Guard band played some music.

FULL TEXT  GREETING OF HIS HOLINESS POPE LEO XIV
AT THE END OF THE
SWEARING-IN CEREMONY OF THE PONTIFICAL SWISS GUARD
in the Vatican Courtyard of San Damaso on Saturday, October 4, 2025
____________________________________
Before concluding this “hermosa” ceremony, I would like to say a word of gratitude, first of all to God for the gift of life and faith.
I would like to greet all those present: the Cardinals, the Archbishops, the Bishops, the President of the Swiss Federation, and the families of the Swiss Guards who today took this oath in a very special way.
To all of you who have taken this oath: it is a very important testimony in today's world. It makes us understand the importance of discipline, sacrifice, and living our faith in a way that truly speaks to all young people about the value of giving one's life, of serving, and of caring for others. I thank you on my behalf and on behalf of the entire Holy See for your service.
God bless you. May he bless your families and be with you always. Thank you!