Pope's appeal for PyeongChang Winter Olympics

Source: Vatican News Service

During the General Audience yesterday, Pope Francis made a special mention of the 23rd Winter Olympic Games, which open in the city of PyeongChang in South Korea, with 92 countries taking part.

Pope Francis said: "This year the traditional Olympic respite acquires special importance as delegations of the two Koreas will parade together under one flag and will compete as one team. This fact gives hope that conflicts in the world can be resolved with dialogue and in mutual respect, as sport also teaches one to do.

"My greeting goes to the International Olympic Committee, to the men and women athletes taking part in the PyeongChang Games, to the Authorities and to the people of the Korean Peninsula. I accompany all with prayer while I renew the Holy See's commitment to support every useful initiative in favour of peace and the encounter of peoples.

"May these Olympics be a great celebration of Friendship and sport! May God bless and protect you!"