A touch of charisma (and desperation) in the Vatican
It seems that even the oldest institution in the world needs a facelift from time to time. This Saturday, the newly minted Pope Leo Because nothing says “unbreakable tradition” like having to resort to the pontiff’s “wow” factor to try to attract recruits. As the oldest permanent military force on the planet struggles to find enough young men willing to wear harlequin costumes and wield 16th-century halberds, the Supreme Pontiff sat on his throne as if he were the judge of a celestial talent show.
There was His Holiness, watching as the new guards, clad in their distinctive yellow, blue and red dress uniforms (colors that would make a peacock pale), raised their right arms in the classic three-finger salute. They promised to defend and serve him “with all my strength, sacrifice and, if necessary, my life.” One wonders if the benefits of the position include life insurance or at least a discount at Vatican souvenir shops. The ceremony, normally full of pomp and circumstance, this time had a slightly… advertising tinge.
When tradition needs a boost (and funds)
The Vatican, in its infinite wisdom, did not consider it necessary to explain why León decided to personally preside over the event, although he had attended in previous years as a simple cardinal. Perhaps he had a gap in his agenda between miracles and encyclicals. The truth is that, according to the corps’ commander, Colonel Christoph Graf, it was the first time a pope had presided since 1968. Coincidence, of course, that this occurred just as the corps embarked on what more cynical observers would call a blatant publicity campaign.
Just this week, the guards proudly showed off their new uniforms for formal occasions—because what a 500-year-old institution really needs is a wardrobe change—and plan a renewed fundraising push next year. The stated goal: to modernize its cramped, antiquated barracks. One imagines that after five centuries, even the Swiss Guards deserve more than a stone cot and a rusty halberd. Free Wi-Fi, perhaps?
In an impromptu greeting that he undoubtedly practiced in front of the mirror, León thanked the men for their dedication and said it was “an important sign in today’s world, especially for young people.” Because nothing connects with the youth of the 21st century like swearing eternal loyalty to a theocratic state while wearing a Renaissance uniform. “It makes us understand the importance of discipline, of sacrificing to live our faith in a way that truly speaks to everyone every day, of the value of giving our lives, of serving and thinking of others,” said the Pontiff. Inspiring message, although young Swiss people probably prefer to think about others from behind a smartphone screen.
The oldest army in the world (and with recruiting problems)
For those who don’t know – and clearly many young Swiss people seem to have forgotten – the corps was founded in 1506 by Pope Julius II, a guy who evidently knew what he wanted in a mercenary. It is considered by historians to be the oldest standing army in the world, a living Guinness record that appears to be in danger. Tradition says that the pontiff was so impressed by the bravery of the Swiss mercenaries that he asked them to defend the Vatican. Since then, for more than 500 years, Switzerland has supplied soldiers to the small state to form an army of around 135 men. Today, finding 135 young people willing to pursue this peculiar lifestyle seems to be quite a challenge.
Normally, the swearing ceremony is held on or around May 6 to commemorate the day in 1527 when 147 guards died protecting Pope Clement VII during the sack of Rome. A happy date, without a doubt. This year, however, the ceremony was postponed following the death in April of Pope Francis and the conclave where León was elected. Because even the most deeply rooted tradition must give in to small inconveniences such as the death of a pontiff and the election of another.
So there we have it: the world’s oldest army deploying all its heavy artillery—papal charisma, new uniforms, and fundraising campaigns—to survive another 500 years. Because in the modern world, even divine institutions need a good marketing department.
Do you think traditions like the Swiss Guard can survive in the modern world? Share this article and join the conversation about the future of historic institutions. Explore more content about the curious traditions that endure against all odds.
