Pope Leo XIV on the 6th (local time) highlighted efforts for world peace, invoking the Olympic tradition of truce ahead of the opening of the Milano Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics. He stressed that solidarity and diversity are the true values of sport and called on people to work for peace.
In a speech released that day titled "Abundant Life," the pope referred to the Paralympics and the Homeless World Cup, stating that "the true value of sport is revealed through solidarity and diversity." He went on to say, "Sport offers a special space where people of different religions and traditions can engage in dialogue," and emphasized that "everyone must have access to sport."
The pope also recalled the Olympic tradition of truce and urged renewed efforts to end wars for the sake of world peace. He explained, "In ancient Greece, there was a practice of suspending hostilities before and after the Olympic Games," adding, "Through such agreements, athletes and spectators were able to move freely, and the competitions were held without interruption."
He further underscored the positive role of sport and proposed the establishment of sport-related bodies within the Church. The pope said, "It seems appropriate to have an office or committee devoted to sport within the bishops' conference," adding that "sport has the power to unite parishes, schools, and local communities."
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