On Sunday, five days before the opening of the Paris Olympics, the Holy Father praised the unifying power of sports and called on the warring parties for a global truce during the sports event.
Sport has great social power, it can peacefully unite all age groups in different cultures, said the 87-year-old Holy Father in St. Mark's Square in the Vatican, when he met with pilgrims.
"I hope that this event can be a sign of the inclusive world that we want to build, and that the athletes, through their competitions, can be mediators of peace and a good example, especially for young people," the Holy Father pointed out.
He added: according to the ancient tradition, the Olympic Games offer an opportunity to conclude armistices and to show the sincere desire for peace.
The Paris Olympics will be held from July 26 to August 11, and the Paralympics from August 28 to September 8.
MTI
Cover photo: Pope Francis
Source: MTI/Zoltán Máthé
