Ahead of the Olympic Games, which begin today in Paris, Pope Francis is urging a global ceasefire to promote peace and unity, highlighting the significance of the Olympic spirit for fostering harmony in today’s world.
May God help “enlighten the consciences of those in power to the grave responsibilities incumbent upon them, may he grant peacemakers success in their endeavors,” the pope said in a written message to Archbishop Laurent Ulrich of Paris.
The Olympic truce tradition, originating in Greece in the 8th-century B.C., asked that all wars and conflict be suspended during the games and seven days before and after the games to ensure participants could travel safely to and from the venue.
Pope Francis also sent his support and blessings to all athletes, spectators, and the people of Paris, including the many Catholics who “are preparing to open wide the doors of their churches, schools and homes.”
“I hope that the organization of these Games will provide the people of France with a wonderful opportunity for fraternal harmony, enabling us to transcend differences and opposition and strengthen the unity of the nation,” he wrote.