A Filipino-Swiss has been making headlines after he joined the Pontifical Swiss Guard.
He is now the first Swiss guard with Filipino blood to enter the papal guard, considered as the smallest yet oldest army in the world. It was established by Pope Julius II in 1506.
Filipino-Swiss Lt. Vincent Lüthi is one of the 38 new members of the corps. They took oath in the Vatican last October 4.
Based on the report of CBCP News, the 21-year-old new recruit is the only child of a Swiss father and Filipino mother from Santa Fe in Bantayan Island, Cebu.
Vincent was born and raised in Cugy, Switzerland.
As part of the Swiss Guards, his main duty is to serve the Pope. The army is also the de facto armed forces of the Vatican City. They are also committed to serve the Sacred College of Cardinals in case there is no ruling Pope.
They also carry out ceremonial duties as honor guards during papal liturgies and other Vatican events like receptions for heads of state and monarchs, and audiences. The guards are easily noticeable in their famous antique blue, red and yellow striped uniforms.
The selection and oath taking of new guards traditionally happens in May. The ceremony however was suspended this year due to the coronavirus outbreak that ravaged Italy.
The Pope met with the new guards and their families. Pope Francis thanked the Swiss Guards for their service and reminded them of their duty to the Church.
“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,” Francis said.
“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,” the Pontiff added.
New recruits are required to be unmarried Swiss Catholic males between the age of 19 and 30. They are required to complete the training under the Swiss Army which has 135 members.
