Message from Pope Benedict for 2012 Olympic Games

The following Message of the Holy Father for the 2012 Olympic Games given during his Angelus Address in Rome on 22 July was read during the Mass in celebration for the 30th Olympic Games at Westminster Cathedral.

‘The Olympics are the greatest world sporting event, attended by athletes from many nations, and as such they have a strong symbolic value. For this reason the Catholic Church looks upon them with particular sympathy and attention. We pray that, according to the will of God, the London Games are an experience of fraternity among the peoples of the Earth.

I send greetings to the organizers, athletes and spectators alike, and I pray that, in the spirit of the Olympic Truce, the good will generated by this international sporting event may bear fruit, promoting Peace and Reconciliation throughout the world. Upon all those attending the London Olympic Games, I invoke the abundant blessings of Almighty God.’