Vatican City, Jan 18, 2006 / 22:00 pm
The Vatican announced today its final plans for the celebration of the fifth centenary of the Pontifical Swiss Guard, the world’s oldest standing military corps.
The celebration will open on Sunday, January 22nd, when Cardinal Secretary of State Angelo Sodano will preside at Mass in the Sistine Chapel for the 110 active members of the Guard as well as their families.
Simultaneously, Cardinal Georges Marie Martin Cottier O.P. will celebrate Mass in the cathedral of St. Nicholas in Fribourg, Switzerland, where more than 500 former Swiss Guard members will be gathered with their families.
At noontime, a guard of honor, made up of 70 members of the corps will be on hand in St. Peter’s Square for Pope Benedict XVI’s Angelus prayer where they will receive a papal blessing.
This will reenact an event from 500 years ago performed by Pope Julius II. Former guards gathered in Fribourg will be able to follow the events via live television.
The Vatican also noted that the day will conclude with a presentation of a special commemorative papal medal, made for the occasion. This will take place in the Courtyard of Honor of the Swiss Guard.
Subscribe to our daily newsletter
At Catholic News Agency, our team is committed to reporting the truth with courage, integrity, and fidelity to our faith. We provide news about the Church and the world, as seen through the teachings of the Catholic Church. When you subscribe to the CNA UPDATE, we'll send you a daily email with links to the news you need and, occasionally, breaking news.
As part of this free service you may receive occasional offers from us at EWTN News and EWTN. We won't rent or sell your information, and you can unsubscribe at any time.
Click hereOur mission is the truth. Join us!
Your monthly donation will help our team continue reporting the truth, with fairness, integrity, and fidelity to Jesus Christ and his Church.
Donate to CNA