The Swiss Guard celebrated more than just its 26 new recruits on May 6.   As the oldest standing army in the world welcomed its newest members, it also celebrated the presence of two ex-guards … as Catholic deacons.     The morning of the swearing-in of his successors as the protectors of the Pope, began with this Mass here at St. Peter’s Basilica.   They carry on the history of the Pontifical Swiss Guard which dates back to 1506.   Recruits today must be single male Swiss citizens, between the age of 19 and 30. The minimum height requirement is 5ft 7inches.   They must be practicing Catholics with a “good ethical moral background.”   They must also have a professional degree or high school diploma and have attended a military college in Switzerland.   Their spiritual formation is obviously an important part of their training.   Following a parade to the Vatican’s Paul VI hall…. the new guards asked for the protection of their patron saints as they made their promise to defend Pope Benedict and his successors. They pledged to sacrifice their lives for him, if necessary.   With the three-finger salute, representing the Holy Trinity, they fully entered the guard.   It was a moving moment.     Ordination for this deacon comes next October while the new recruits will now serve between 2 and 25 years at the Vatican.

Original article: 

Swiss Guard to be Ordained