(ANSA) - Vatican City, May 4 - Pope Francis told the Swiss Guards charged with protecting him that they should pray the rosary during honor guard duty and always carry a small version of the Gospel in their pockets, speaking at an audience two days prior to the swearing-in ceremony for new Swiss Guards.
"What I tell everyone, I'll tell you too: always keep a small Gospel close at hand, to read it as soon as you have a calm moment. It will help you in your personal prayer, especially the Rosary, during the honor guard," Pope Francis said.
Pope Francis called Monday's audience with the Swiss Guard an occasion "to grow a meaningful friendship, because you work so close to me".
Wednesday's swearing-in ceremony of 32 new Swiss Guards is an annual event held on May 6, the anniversary of the Sack of Rome in 1527, when 147 Swiss soldiers died defending Pope Clement VII.
Pope tells Swiss Guard to pray rosary during watch
Also tells guard to always carry a small Gospel in their pockets