Pope Francis has issued a powerful call for peace as the world prepares for the Paris Olympics, urging athletes to become messengers of peace and role models for young people. With the games set to commence on July 27th, the pope expressed his hope that the Olympic spirit would inspire a truce in the world’s conflicts, citing the ancient tradition of establishing a ceasefire during the games. In his weekly address to the crowds in St Peter’s Square, Pope Francis acknowledged the ongoing conflicts in Ukraine, Gaza, and Myanmar, lamenting that “war is a defeat” and emphasizing the need for a sincere desire for peace.
The pope’s message is a timely reminder of the transformative power of sports and the importance of promoting peace and understanding in a world torn apart by conflict. As the eyes of the world turn to Paris for the Olympics, Pope Francis is urging athletes, leaders, and spectators alike to seize this moment as an opportunity to promote peace and reconciliation. By invoking the ancient tradition of an Olympic truce, the pope is calling on the global community to come together in a shared commitment to peace, and to recognize that even in the midst of conflict, there is always the possibility for dialogue, understanding, and reconciliation.
 to retired priest Revd Sue Parfitt, 82, who is currently facing trial for criminal damage linked to a climate protest. Revd Parfitt is accused of damaging the protective glass surrounding the Magna Carta at the British Library during a protest in May 2024. Alongside a fellow activist, she allegedly broke the glass and glued herself to the display, holding a sign reading, ){kind=link}
