Swiss Guard delays swearing-in after Pope Francis's death
The planned swearing-in ceremony for the Swiss Guard recruits on May 6 has been postponed to the fall due to the death of Pope Francis. This marks the first time the ceremony will not take place on its traditional date.
What do you need to know?
- The swearing-in ceremony for the Swiss Guard recruits, initially scheduled for May 6, has been postponed.
- The Swiss Guard, the smallest army in the world, traditionally holds the swearing-in on the day of its celebration.
- The Swiss Guard is currently focused on its mission and is praying for the deceased Pope, as highlighted in the command's statement.
Why was the ceremony postponed?
The swearing-in ceremony for the Swiss Guard recruits planned for May 6 has been postponed to the fall. This decision was announced by the Guard's command following the death of Pope Francis.
This is the first time the ceremony will not take place on its traditional date.
What are the reactions of the Swiss Guard?
"In these days of grief and reflection, following the passing of our beloved Holy Father, Pope Francis, the Pontifical Swiss Guard is fully focused on its mission and unites in prayer for his eternal rest," stated the communiqué.
Postponing the induction ceremony for the new Swiss Guard soldiers to the fall is an unprecedented event. This smallest army in the world traditionally holds the swearing-in on its celebration day.
