Pope Francis received this overwhelming standing applause when he met with Special Olympics soccer athletes. They are in Rome for the Unified Football tournament from Oct. 13-15, while also marking the fiftieth anniversary since the beginning of Special Olympics.
TIMOTHY P. SHRIVER, PH.D
CEO Special Olympics
“You are our keeper for peace. These athletes they are prophets also. They come from all over Europe. They come from very humble surroundings. We are here to ask you a revolution not of violence or of anger but a revolution of the heart.”
With this little girl by his side, Pope Francis addressed the players, coming from nine countries in Europe.
POPE FRANCIS
'You are a symbol of a sport that opens the eyes and heart to the value and dignity of individuals and people, who otherwise would be the object of prejudice and exclusion. Never tire of showing the world of sport your shared commitment to constructing more fraternal societies, in which people can grow and develop, and fully realize their own capacities.”
He assured his support for their athletic endeavers, and the support of the entire Church. Pope Francis concluded by blessing the athletes and their families as he wished “frienship and solidarity” would be two main aspects of their weekend matches.
