VATICAN CITY — Pope Francis on Sunday voiced his hope that the Paris Olympic and Paralympic Games will provide an opportunity for countries at war to respect an ancient Greek tradition and establish a truce for the duration of the Games.
“According to ancient tradition, may the Olympics be an opportunity to establish a truce in wars, demonstrating a sincere will for peace,” Francis said during his Angelus prayer in St. Peter’s Square.
The Pope stressed that sport also has “a great social power, capable of peacefully uniting people from different cultures.”
The opening ceremony of the 33rd Olympic Games will be held in Paris on July 26 with the participation of 205 delegations of athletes, who will parade on more than 80 boats on the Seine.
“I hope that this event can be a sign of the inclusive world we want to build and that the athletes, with their sporting testimony, may be messengers of peace and valuable models for the young,” Francis added.
The pope, as always, asked the faithful to pray for peace, recalling the ongoing conflicts around the world.
“Let us not forget the martyred Ukraine, Palestine, Israel, Myanmar, and many other countries at war. Let us not forget, war is a defeat,” he concluded.
Pope Francis, the leader of the Catholic Church, has once again used his platform to advocate for peace and unity among nations. In a recent address, the Pope called for an Olympic truce to be observed by warring countries around the world. This call comes at a time when conflicts and tensions are high in various regions, and the Pope’s message serves as a reminder of the importance of putting aside differences for the greater good.
The concept of an Olympic truce dates back to ancient Greece, where it was established to allow athletes and spectators to travel safely to and from the Olympic Games without fear of violence or conflict. The tradition has been revived in modern times, with the United Nations calling for a global ceasefire during the Olympic Games. Pope Francis’s endorsement of this truce highlights the need for nations to set aside their differences and work towards peace.
In his address, Pope Francis also offered prayers for peace in areas of conflict, particularly in countries where violence and war have taken a heavy toll on civilians. The Pope’s words serve as a reminder of the power of prayer and faith in times of turmoil, and his call for peace resonates with people of all backgrounds and beliefs.
The Pope’s message comes at a crucial time, as the world continues to grapple with the devastating effects of war and conflict. His call for an Olympic truce is a powerful reminder of the importance of unity and cooperation in building a more peaceful world. As a respected global leader, Pope Francis’s words carry weight and influence, and his message serves as a beacon of hope for those who are suffering in war-torn regions.
In conclusion, Pope Francis’s advocacy for an Olympic truce and his prayers for peace serve as a powerful reminder of the importance of working towards unity and understanding in times of conflict. His message resonates with people around the world, and his words inspire hope for a more peaceful future. It is up to world leaders and citizens alike to heed the Pope’s call for peace and strive towards a world free from violence and war.
