Respect Ancient Greek Traditions, Pope Francis Calls For Ceasefire During Paris Olympics

(Wikimedia Commons/Aletia Image Department)

JAKARTA - Pope Francis voiced his hope that the Paris Olympics and Paralympics would provide an opportunity for countries at war to respect ancient Greek traditions and establish a ceasefire during the Olympics. "According to ancient traditions, hopefully the Olympics will be an opportunity to build a ceasefire in the war, showing a sincere desire for peace," Pope Francis said in an Angelus prayer in St. Peter's Square, Sunday, July 21, quoted from CBSNews. The Pope stressed that sport also has "great social forces, which are able to unite people from different cultures peacefully." The opening ceremony of the 33rd Olympics will be held in Paris on July 26 with the participation of 205 athletes, who will parade in more than 80 boats on the Sea River. "I hope this event can be a sign of the inclusive world that we want to build and that athletes, with their sporting testimony, can be carriers of peace messages and valuable role models for young people," added the Pope. The Pope, as usual, called on believers to pray for peace, given the ongoing conflict around the world.

"Let us not forget Ukraine, Palestine, Israel, Myanmar, and many other countries that have been martyred in the war. Do not let us forget, war is defeat," he concluded.