ASIA/CHINA — Pope Francis: May the Beijing Olympics bring about a more fraternal society
Vatican City (Agenzia Fides) – Pope prays that the Beijing Olympics will bring about a “more fraternal world”. This is what he said at today’s General Audience, held in St. Peter’s Square.
Pope Francis has said: “The Olympic Games in Beijing and the Paralympic Winter Games in Beijing are about to open on February 4th and March 4th respectively. I warmly welcome all participants. I wish organizers and athletes all the best. Sport, through its universal language, can help build bridges of friendship between peoples of all religions and cultures. I therefore appreciate the fact that to the historic Olympic motto “Citius, Altius, Fortius” — that is, “faster, higher, stronger” — the International Olympic Committee has added the word “communiter”, that is, “together”: so that the Olympic Games may bring about a more fraternal world” .
The Pope addressed “a special thought” to the entire Paralympic community and hugged them all: “We will win our most important medal together, If the example of athletes who have disabilities helps everyone overcome prejudices and fears, and make our communities more welcoming and inclusive.
This is the real gold. I also follow the personal stories of refugee athletes with interest and emotion. Let their stories inspire civil societies to be more open and welcoming to all, without excluding anyone. I wish the Paralympic and Olympic families a wonderful experience of human brotherhood, peace, and joy. Blessed are the peacemakers! (Mt 5.9)”.
Chinese Catholics received the Pope’s wishes with kindness, devotion, and gratitude. (NZ) (Agenzia Fides, 2/2/2022)
Share:
Source: fides.org
