Pope Francis expressed his hope on Sunday that "the Olympic Games in Paris will be an occasion for a truce in world conflicts and urged athletes to be ambassadors of peace and role models for the youth." The Olympic Games will commence on July 26 with an opening ceremony on the Seine River, involving about 10,500 athletes and more than a hundred leaders from nations and governments.
During his weekly sermon to crowds in St. Peter's Square, the Pope stated that he hopes "the Olympic Games, in accordance with ancient traditions, will provide an opportunity for a truce in wars by demonstrating a sincere and genuine desire for peace." Pope Francis emphasized that "the Olympic Games are, by their very nature, bearers of peace, not war. With this spirit, a truce was wisely established during the Olympic Games in ancient times. In this troubled period where global peace is greatly threatened, I hope that everyone will strive to respect this truce with the hope of resolving conflicts and returning to harmony."
The Pope mentioned conflicts in Ukraine, Gaza, Myanmar, and other countries, stating, "Let us not forget that war is a defeat."
