hand and heart

The recent post office troubles have impacted our regular fundraising efforts. Please consider supporting the Register and Catholic journalism by using one of the methods below:

  • Donate online
  • Donate by e-transfer to accounting@catholicregister.org
  • Donate by telephone: 416-934-3410 ext. 406 or toll-free 1-855-441-4077 ext. 406
Louis Smith of Britain performs on the pommel horse at an international gymnastics event in London Jan. 12.
Louis Smith of Britain performs on the pommel horse at an international gymnastics event in London Jan. 12. CNS photo/Reuters

Pope says he hopes London Olympics brings global peace

By  Catholic News Service
  • July 25, 2012

CASTEL GANDOLFO, Italy - Pope Benedict XVI expressed his hope that the Summer Olympics would help bring peace and reconciliation throughout the world.

The Olympic Games, held this year in London, are "the greatest sports event in the world," drawing athletes from the myriad nations of the world to one city, the Pope told visitors gathered to pray the Angelus with him July 22 at the papal villa in Castel Gandolfo.

The games have "important symbolic value," and for that reason the Catholic Church looks to them "with special fondness and attention," he said.

"I send greetings to the organizers, athletes and spectators alike, and pray that, in the spirit of the Olympic truce, the good will generated by this international sporting event may bear fruit, promoting peace and reconciliation throughout the world," he said.

The Olympic truce tradition, originating in eighth-century B.C. Greece, asked that all wars and conflict be suspended before and during the games as a way make sure participants could travel to and from the venue safely.

The Pope said he prayed the Olympics would be "a true experience of brotherhood between all peoples on Earth."

He also gave his blessings to all those taking part in the games, which begin July 27.

More in this category: « Denver prelates offer consolation in wake of Aurora shootings  Philly priest sentenced for endangering children »

Please support The Catholic Register

Unlike many media companies, The Catholic Register has never charged readers for access to the news and information on our website. We want to keep our award-winning journalism as widely available as possible. But we need your help.

For more than 125 years, The Register has been a trusted source of faith-based journalism. By making even a small donation you help ensure our future as an important voice in the Catholic Church. If you support the mission of Catholic journalism, please donate today. Thank you.

DONATE