During his weekly General Audience this morning in St. Peter’s Square, Pope Francis reminded the faithful that the Summer Olympics begins this weekend.
While greeting the Portuguese-speaking pilgrims, Francis offered an affectionate greeting to the Brazilian people, particularly in the city of Rio de Janeiro, hosting athletes and fans from around the world.
“In a world that is thirsty for peace, tolerance and reconciliation,” Pope Francis said, “I hope that the spirit of the Olympic Games can inspire everyone, participants and spectators, to fight the good fight and finish the race together.”
Francis expressed his hope that participants’ objective is not only achieving a prize nor medal, “but something much more valuable,” rather “the achievement of a civilization where solidarity reigns, and is founded on the recognition that we are all members of one human family, regardless of differences in culture, skin color or religion.”
The Argentine Pontiff also expressed his hope that Brazilians, “with their characteristic joy and hospitality,” organize these Olympics to also be an “opportunity to overcome the difficult times,” “commit to teamwork” and work toward “a future full of hope and joy.”
“God bless you all!” Pope Francis said.
