During the month of June, Pope Leo XIV asks the faithful to unite in prayer for the values expressed in sports. May we break down these barriers and create spaces that bring together cultures for generations to come. People work hard to compete at any level of sports and it is important that we come to partake in any event with respect, solidarity, fraternity, good sportsmanship and personal growth.
Take a moment and pray with the Pope.
In the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit. Amen. Lord of life, we thank you for the gift of sport, for those who glorify God through the exercise of their bodies, for the friendships born on the field and the joy of playing as a team. You teach us that in life, as in the game, no one is saved alone. We need others to grow, to learn respect, to overcome our limits, and to celebrate together the victories we achieve. We ask that sport may always be a school of fraternity, not of empty rivalry, a space of encounter, not exclusion, a path of peace, not violence. May those who play, train or cheer discover in sport a universal language that brings cultures together, unites peoples, and sows respect, solidarity and personal growth. Lord Jesus, may every sport become a parable of life lived with you, working with joy and effort, living with humility in defeat and with gratitude in the victory you offer in your Resurrection. May your Spirit never be lacking in us, making us one team, united with you to build communion and fraternity in history. Amen.
Image sourced from CNS.