Pope: Youth Olympic Games a sign of hope emerging from world of sport
Vatican News
Speaking during his Angelus address in St Peter’s Square on Sunday, Pope Leo XIV mentioned the Youth Olympic Games taking place in Senegal’s capital, Dakar, from 31 October to 13 November, and he expressed appreciation for the event that offers a platform for understanding and mutual respect.
The Pope told those present that the Games are for athletes aged between 15 and 18 and mark the first Olympic event to be hosted on the African continent.
“In addition to the sporting competitions, the programme includes educational and cultural activities aimed at promoting Olympic values and fostering understanding among young people from all over the world,” he said.
“Here, once again, we see a sign of hope emerging from the world of sport! I warmly greet and bless all the participants.”
Beatification of Georgia Martyrs
Pope Leo also mentioned the beatification of the Georgia Martyrs, which took place on Saturday, 31 October, in Savannah, Georgia.
“Yesterday, in Savannah, Georgia, in the United States, Pedro de Corpa and four companions, members of the Order of Friars Minor, who were killed in hatred of the faith in 1597, were beatified,” he said.
Noting that they were originally from Spain, the Pope said, “They generously responded to the Lord’s call to evangelize the peoples of the Americas, even to the point of giving their lives,” and he invoked these martyrs' intercession for all missionaries of the Gospel.
World Week of the Poor
Pope Leo also praised the upcoming World Week of the Poor promoted by the Friars Minor from 8 to 15 November that will take place in Rome.
“I congratulate the sons of Saint Francis who, through this initiative, are placing the poor at the centre, just as the Lord Jesus did and as Saint Francis of Assisi did. I also thank the civil authorities and law enforcement agencies for their full cooperation,” he said.
Commemoration of All Souls
Finally, the Pope reminded the faithful that on Monday afternoon, 2 November, on the Commemoration of All the Faithful Departed, he will celebrate Mass at Rome’s Verano Cemetery.
“During these days, let us feel united, in the communion of saints, with the vast family of brothers and sisters who have preceded us on our earthly pilgrimage. Let us pray for the dead, especially for those whom no one remembers.”
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