The highest ranking corps of the papal military service. It originated in the Cavelleggieri (light cavalry) which formed the mounted guard of the popes. Reorganized several times, it assumed its present name under Pope Pius VII, 1815, new regulations being given by Pope Leo XIII. The pope appoints the commander, always a Roman prince, and all members must show a 60 years line of nobility recognized in the Papal States. Their only public appearance is with the pope at public functions, withdrawing when he does; the privilege of conveying the tidings to newly appointed cardinals belongs exclusively to them.
This dictionary contains not only definitions and explanations of every subject in Religion, Scripture, tradition, doctrine, morals, sacraments, rites, customs, devotions and symbolism, but also accounts of the Church in every continent, country, diocese; missions, notable Catholic centers, cities, and places with religious names; religious orders, church societies, sects and false religions. It has brief articles also on historical events and personages, on the Old Testament and New, and on popes, prelates, priests, men and women of distinction, showing what the Church has done for civilization and correcting many errors which have hitherto passed for history.Wikipedia
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