Vatican City, Aug 11, 2004 / 22:00 pm
Pope John Paul II issued a telegram today to Constantinos Stephanopoulos, president of Greece, on the occasion of the 28th summer Olympic Games, which will open in Athens this week.
“In the spirit of truce, linked to the Olympic Games,” said the Pope, “I wish that these games are an occasion for fraternity among peoples and cultures, because sport is a universal language, which develops a spirit of family and which allows us to go beyond the violence that marks our current world.
“I invoke upon you divine benedictions, as well as upon the Greek nation,… the organizers, the athletes, the spectators present and on those who will watch or listen to the various sporting events through different means of communications,” he wrote. “To all, I give my fervent greetings.”
Subscribe to our daily newsletter
At Catholic News Agency, our team is committed to reporting the truth with courage, integrity, and fidelity to our faith. We provide news about the Church and the world, as seen through the teachings of the Catholic Church. When you subscribe to the CNA UPDATE, we'll send you a daily email with links to the news you need and, occasionally, breaking news.
As part of this free service you may receive occasional offers from us at EWTN News and EWTN. We won't rent or sell your information, and you can unsubscribe at any time.
Click hereOur mission is the truth. Join us!
Your monthly donation will help our team continue reporting the truth, with fairness, integrity, and fidelity to Jesus Christ and his Church.
Donate to CNA