Vatican City: Athletes from across the globe gathered in St. Peter’s Basilica on Saturday as Pope Leo XIV warmly welcomed them for the Jubilee of Sport, continuing a series of special Saturday audiences begun by his predecessor. The Pope offered a powerful message focused on unity, resilience, and the enduring power of hope anchored in the example of early Church Father, St. Irenaeus of Lyon.
Drawing inspiration from the second-century bishop and theologian, Pope Leo praised St. Irenaeus as a beacon of hope whose teachings remain deeply relevant today. “He helps us rediscover how vital and beautiful hope is in our world,” the Pope said, addressing athletes, coaches, and families attending the two-day celebration.
This Jubilee audience marked the latest in a series of reflections themed around theological hope, highlighting saints whose lives embodied that virtue. Pope Leo pointed out how Irenaeus, a native of Asia Minor who brought the Gospel to Europe, reminds us that faith often comes from afar a reality echoed today in the witness of migrant communities who revitalize the Church in their new homelands.
“Irenaeus brings us a deeper truth,” the Pope continued. “He shows us that focusing on Christ can overcome even the most entrenched divisions. Jesus is not a barrier He is a bridge, not a wall but a door that brings us together.”
In a world increasingly shaped by polarization and harsh rhetoric, the Holy Father warned of the destructive power of ideas that divide and words that wound. He called on all people to see Christ in the faces of their fellow human beings, especially in those who suffer. “We must listen as though the pain of others calls us by name,” he said.
Calling St. Irenaeus a “teacher of unity,” Pope Leo praised the saint’s commitment to building communion rather than opposition. “To be pilgrims of hope,” he said, “means choosing the path toward reconciliation and community. Where there are walls, let us build bridges. Where worlds are divided, let us be the ones who connect them.”
As part of the Jubilee of Sport, participants including professional athletes, amateurs, sports officials, and their families engaged in a weekend of reflection and celebration, exploring the connection between athletic endeavor and spiritual hope. Events included a “Festival of Sport” on Saturday and a Mass with Pope Leo scheduled for Sunday.
In his address, the Pope highlighted the values intrinsic to sport discipline, perseverance, teamwork and urged athletes to see their efforts as more than competition. “Your dedication on the field must translate into a commitment to create a better world,” he said. “Let sport be a stage where true Christian values shine: solidarity, integrity, and fraternity.”
Closing his address, Pope Leo offered a special greeting to those participating in the International Motorbike Rally, urging everyone present to become “missionaries of hope”ambassadors of a culture built on inclusion, compassion, and human dignity.
Through this Jubilee, the Vatican reminded the world that sport, at its best, is not only a pursuit of excellence but a powerful tool to unite hearts and transform societies.