Pope Leo XIV met with a delegation from Special Olympics, the international organization providing training and athletic competition for individuals with intellectual disabilities, according to Vatican announcements on Sept. 19. The pontiff highlighted sports as a universal language that bridges cultural and physical divides, urging society to embrace the genuine values of sharing and peace modeled by these athletes.
Pope Leo XIV Highlights Formative Value of Sports for Special Olympics
Meeting with Special Olympics representatives, Pope Leo XIV expressed his joy at participating in the athletes’ shared experiences, stating that he loves sports and trusts in their deep formative value, according to the Vatican. The pontiff noted that athletic engagement teaches genuine values whether pursued professionally or recreationally, requiring serious commitment and hardship before yielding rewards of perseverance.
Did you know? Special Olympics serves children and adults with intellectual disabilities by offering year-round training and athletic competitions.
Sports as a Universal Language Bridging Social Divides
Recalling remarks by Pope Francis during a previous audience with Special Olympics athletes, Pope Leo XIV emphasized that sports function as an inclusive language transcending cultural, social, religious, and physical boundaries, according to the papal address. This shared arena allows participants to unite in the same games, acting as joint protagonists regardless of whether they achieve victory or face defeat.
Call for Authenticity and the Legacy of Pier Giorgio Frassati
Addressing the delegation, Pope Leo XIV stated that the world urgently needs individuals who remind everyone of life’s true values, demonstrating through personal example that sharing and love represent the sole paths to genuine happiness and peace, according to the Vatican. He thanked attendees for the joy and positive message they bring, encouraging athletes, coaches, and assistants to maintain their enthusiasm.
Concluding the audience, the Holy Father entrusted the delegation to the intercession of the Virgin Mary and Pier Giorgio Frassati. Describing Frassati as a youth who loved sports and translated athletic values into a generous, holy life alongside friends, Pope Leo XIV then imparted his Apostolic Blessing upon the participants and their families.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Special Olympics?
Special Olympics is an international organization that provides year-round sports training and athletic competition for children and adults with intellectual disabilities.
What did Pope Leo XIV say about sports?
According to the Vatican, Pope Leo XIV stated that sports possess significant formative value, teach noble and honest principles, and act as a universal language uniting people across cultural and physical differences.
Who did the Pope invoke at the end of the audience?
Pope Leo XIV entrusted the delegation to the intercession of the Virgin Mary and Pier Giorgio Frassati, whom he described as a youth and athlete who lived a generous and holy life.
Join the Conversation
Share your thoughts on how inclusive sports programs impact communities worldwide. Leave a comment below or subscribe to our newsletter for more updates.
Keep reading