By ANALOU DE VERA***
A Filipino-Swiss has joined the elite corps of soldiers tasked to protect the Pope.
Vincent Lüthi, 22, was among the 38 new recruits of the Pontifical Guardsmen or the Swiss Guards, according to the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of the Philippines (CBCP).
“The 22-year-old grew up in Cugy, Switzerland, and the only child of a Swiss father and a Filipino mother from Sta. Fe town on Bantayan Island in Cebu province,” the CBCP news post stated.
The changing of the Swiss Guards traditionally happens in May but was moved to October this year due to the threat of the coronavirus pandemic.
Aside from the Pope, it is also the duty of the Pontifical Swiss Guards to protect the Vatican and the Apostolic Palace. It is also the smallest and oldest standing army in the world that was established in 1506, the CBCP said.
“Members of the Swiss Guard must be Swiss, Catholic, and topnotch soldiers. They are also famous for their antique blue, red, and yellow striped uniforms,” it said.
Pope Francis met with the new guards and their families and expressed his gratitude for the service of the Swiss Guards.
“The time you will spend here is a unique moment in your life. May you live it in a spirit of fraternity, helping one another to lead a meaningful and joyfully Christian life,” the Pope said.
Pope Francis also told the new guards that their oath is also “a declaration of fidelity to your baptismal vocation, that is, to Christ, who calls you to be men and Christians, protagonists of your existence.”
“With His help and the power of the Holy Spirit, you will serenely face the obstacles and challenges of life. Do not forget that the Lord is always at your side: I sincerely hope that you will always feel His consoling presence,” he added.
