‘Sports are at home in the Church,’ says Pope

December 19, 2014

Pope Francis spoke to members of Italy’s National Olympic Committee on December 19 and said that sports “are at home in the Church.”

“Sport has always favored a universalism characterized by brotherhood and friendship among peoples, peace and harmony among nations; by respect, tolerance, harmony of diversity,” he continued.

The Pope offered his "best wishes" to the Italian organizers, who are hoping to be chosen as hosts for the 2024 Olympic Games. But the 78-year-old Pontiff added with a smile, "I won't be around."

Referring to the saints’ example, the Pope concluded by speaking about the similarity of sports and the spiritual life of the saints. He cited St. Paul’s First Letter to Timothy, which states that “while bodily training is of some value, godliness is of value in every way, as it holds promise for the present life and also for the life to come.”

 

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Further information:

• Udienza a Dirigenti e Atleti del Comitato Olimpico Nazionale Italiano (Holy See Press Office)
• Pope meets Italy’s National Olympic Committee (Vatican Radio)
• Pope boosts Rome's 2024 bid but warns: 'I won't be around' (AP)