Pope Francis expressed his hope for the upcoming Paris Olympic and Paralympic Games to serve as a platform for promoting peace and unity among nations currently at war. During his Angelus prayer in St. Peter’s Square, the Pope referenced an ancient Greek tradition of establishing a truce during the Olympic Games, emphasizing the importance of demonstrating a sincere desire for peace.
Highlighting the social power of sports in bringing together individuals from diverse cultures, Pope Francis underscored the potential of the Olympics to foster harmony and understanding. The 33rd Olympic Games are set to commence in Paris on July 26, featuring 205 delegations of athletes parading on more than 80 boats along the Seine River.
Expressing his aspirations for the Games to symbolize a more inclusive world, the Pope called upon athletes to serve as ambassadors of peace and role models for the youth through their sporting achievements. He also urged the faithful to pray for peace, acknowledging the ongoing conflicts in regions such as Ukraine, Palestine, Israel, Myanmar, and various other war-torn countries.
Emphasizing that war signifies a collective defeat, Pope Francis reiterated the importance of striving for peaceful resolutions and unity among nations. His message resonated with the broader theme of promoting harmony and understanding through the spirit of sportsmanship and international cooperation.
