Pope Francis encourages refugee Olympians to 'serve as a cry for peace and solidarity'
In a letter released by the Vatican Saturday morning, Pope Francis offered words of encouragement to the 10 athletes who will compete at the Rio Olympics as the first team of refugees.
Signed, "In brotherhood, Francis," the letter offered the pope's prayers and his hope that "your courage and strength find expression through the Olympic Games and serve as a cry for peace and solidarity."
Pope Francis also tweeted his support for all the athletes in advance of Friday's Opening Ceremony, and he addressed the Olympics in a homily delivered Wednesday, saying the Games should foster "a civilization in which solidarity reigns and is based upon the recognition that we are all members of the same human family, regardless of the differences of culture, skin color, or religion."
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