Pope Prays for Sports to Be a Space for Encounter, Peace, Not Violence

Pope Leo XIV has issued a heartfelt prayer for June, urging that sports foster unity and tranquility rather than conflict. Released nine days before the start of the Football World Cup, the pontiff's message emphasizes sports' potential to be a powerful force for good in the world.

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We give thanks for the gift of sport, for those who glorify God with the exercise of their bodies, for the friendships born on the field and the joy of playing as a team.

"We give thanks for the gift of sport, for those who glorify God with the exercise of their bodies, for the friendships born on the field and the joy of playing as a team," the Pope began in the video, revealing his personal appreciation for athletics. He continued with a plea: "We ask that sport always be a school of fraternity and not of empty rivalry, a space for encounter and not of exclusion, a path of peace and not of violence."

The Pope further expressed his hope that athletes, coaches, and fans alike will recognize sports as a universal language capable of bridging cultures, uniting peoples, and promoting respect, solidarity, and personal growth. This message is part of the 'Pray with the Pope' campaign, an initiative by the Pope's Worldwide Prayer Network.

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We ask that sport always be a school of fraternity and not of empty rivalry, a space for encounter and not of exclusion, a path of peace and not of violence.

Each month, the campaign invites the faithful to join the pontiff in prayer for specific intentions. For June, the focus is on transforming sports into an instrument of peace, reflecting the Pope's vision for a more harmonious global community through athletic engagement.

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who practice, train or cheer discover in sport a universal language that brings cultures closer, unites peoples, and sows respect, solidarity and personal improvement.