THE SPIRIT OF THE OLYMPIC FRATERNITY

The 2024 Olympic Games began in Paris on Friday, 26 July 2024 and will end on Sunday, 11 August 2024. The opening ceremony took place in the heart of Paris, marking the first time in history when an opening ceremony was held outside of a stadium. We are all in the Olympic spirit as we watch the incredible performances of the athletes. There are around 329 medal categories to look forward to, spanning across 32 sporting events. Let’s enjoy every moment of this incredible experience!

During the opening ceremony, there was an act that portrayed a scene resembling Leonardo da Vinci’s “The Last Supper” featuring drag queens and a nearly nude man painted in blue representing Dionysus - the Greek mythology Olympian god of wine, fruitfulness and vegetation. Many influential spiritual and political leaders, as well as Christians worldwide, expressed outrage at the controversial scene, finding it disgraceful, disrespectful and offensive. In response, the artistic director, Thomas Jolly, clarified that the scene was not intended to mock Christianity but was instead inspired by a pagan feast related to the gods of Olympus and Greek mythology.

Pope Francis, however, did not comment on the outrage over the controversy at the Olympic opening ceremony. Instead, during last Sunday’s Angelus, he emphasised that despite suffering from disasters and hunger, we continue to produce and sell weapons to fuel wars, which contradicts the spirit of the Olympics’ fraternity.

In this month of August, Pope Francis’ intention is to invite us to pray for global leaders – to be guided by solidarity, compassion, and inclusiveness for the common good. In line with the sacred mission of the Catholic Church, this includes caring for the poor and those who have lost their jobs. Let’s focus on the Holy Father’s intention rather than getting disheartened over sensitive issues.

We are thankful that Christians worldwide did not react violently after viewing the controversy surrounding the Olympics opening ceremony. It is important for us to uphold our Christian values and faith, even when faced with circumstances that may belittle us. While the opening ceremony may have been scandalous and frustrating, it is vital that we do not respond with aggression. I believe we should not let the performance provoke us into viewing everything in a negative light or labelling it as “satanic”. At the same time, we should not be silent or fearful in the face of those who express animosity toward our faith - “faith that must look forward for the salvation of our souls,” (cf. 1 Peter 1:9).

It is normal to feel disheartened and frustrated when our Christian values and beliefs are disrespected or when insensitivity is shown towards our religion. However, we should strive to honour and respect the religious sentiments of all faiths. Let’s remember to pray for the athletes and spectators so that comments and criticism do not dishearten them and instead contribute to the success of the Paris Olympics.