Vatican News / Krzysztof Bronk – Vatican
Sport educates and ennobles
Pointing to the educational role of sport, the Pope said that it shapes a person in the spirit of noble and authentic values, while also providing an opportunity to give witness to those values, both while practicing sports and in daily life.
Showing the beauty of sport in a unique way
“Practicing sports – said Leo XIV – means serious commitment and effort, and then sharing the fruits of one’s perseverance through loyalty, trust, openness, team spirit, and courage. You do all this and show the beauty of it in a truly unique way, both to those who participate in and watch competitions, and to those who know you and meet you.”
Transcending boundaries together
The Holy Father also pointed out the social role of sport. It is a universal language that transcends cultural boundaries, capable of uniting people by engaging them in the same game and making them heroes of the same victories and defeats. This is precisely what the participants of the Paralympic Games are called to bear witness to.
“Our world – the Pope added – greatly needs people who – like you – remind everyone of the true values of life; men and women who, by their example, show that the path of sharing and love is the only one that truly leads to happiness and peace.”
To love sport and Jesus, like Frassati
Expressing appreciation for the positive message carried by athletes struggling with disabilities, Leo XIV pointed them to the example of St. Pier Giorgio Frassati. He was a young athlete in love with Jesus. Together with his friends, he was able to translate the values of sport into a good and generous life, into a holy life – the Pope said.
