May the Olympics be a sign of hope, prays Pope Francis

Pope notes his desire that the 'healthy competition' be a sign that we are all brothers and sisters in God.

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Pope Francis noted the launch of the Olympic Games in Tokyo after he led the midday Angelus on July 25. He expressed his hope that as the world battles the pandemic, “these games will be a sign of hope” and “of universal brotherhood under the banner of healthy competition.”

“May God bless the organizers, the athletes, and all those who collaborate in this great celebration of sport,” he said.

The Tokyo Olympics opened on July 23. For the first time in history, the opening ceremony took place behind closed doors.

In addition to the trials caused by the pandemic, a new challenge has arisen. Tropical Storm Nepartak formed Friday night in the ocean southeast of Japan. It could hit the shores of mainland Japan by Tuesday.