POPE FRANCIS TO SOCCER PLAYERS: SET AN EXAMPLE OF PEACE ON AND OFF THE FIELD Pope Francis met with about 50 former and current professional soccer players, representing different religions, who came to take part in the “Interreligious Soccer Match for Peace”, organized in honour of his call for peace. He met with them in the Paul VI Hall in the Vatican, some hours before the commencement of the Match at the Olympic Stadium in Rome. The Pope thanked the players and highlighted the importance of setting an example for the youths, People, especially young people, look at you with admiration for your athletic abilities. It is important to set a good example, on the field and off the field” the Pope said. He further expressed hope that this interreligious match would contribute in eradicating all forms of racial, cultural and religious discrimination. The Holy Father then greeted all the players, among them, soccer legend Diego Maradona, who hugged the Pope and as a gift gave him a soccer jersey bearing the Pope’s name and with the number 10 on it; the number which was Maradona’s number when he played professionally. Commenting on how he felt, Maradona said he was moved by the Popes words, especially now that he has returned to the Church. In his words: I was very moved after I hugged him. I felt proud to be an Argentinian. And of returning to the Church after being far from it after God took my mother. But today, I am happy to be once again with the Church, with Pope Francis and to play for peace.” Andriy Shevchenko, the Ukrainian soccer player, also spoke with the Pope, asking him to pray for his country. I asked him to pray for my country [Ukrain] because we truly need everyones help. It is truly difficult to speak especially with what is happening in my country. But I hope things will get better. We are here to play this match and to try to give a sign of peace to all.” The Pope was presented with the award for the soccer match as well as an olive tree that will be planted at the Olympic Stadium. He also posed for group photo with athletes. It was so trilling watching Diego Maradona play again, despite his weight that he battled with in the peach; he was still very skillful and played for the full time of the game. The two teams were called “Scholas Occurentes” and “P.U.P.I” respectively; the names of the foundations that are the beneficiaries of the proceeds from the match. The name P.U.P.I is derived from the footballer Zanettis nickname, “Pupi”, and is also an acronym for the phrase “Por un piberio integrado”, “For an integrated childhood”. The players that featured in the match included Diego Maradona, Javier Zanetti, Balblo Abel, Santa Cruz, Shevchencho, Andrea Pirlo, and host of others. Yanni an actor and musician, and was also present and shown at the front role watching the match. Rev. Fr. Isaac DUGU Chancellor, Catholic Diocese of Gboko
Posted on: Tue, 02 Sep 2014 17:27:41 +0000
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