Last night, while the U.S. tuned into the biggest night in football, Pope Francis used the moment to speak about the importance of sports, rules, and unification in a poignant message seen by millions.
Fox delivered the Pope’s commercial of sorts (minus the big budget) a couple of hours before the Super Bowl, which is the first time the Vatican has ever released a message during this kind of sporting event.
He spoke in Spanish —which was then translated into English on his Instagram page — saying:
“Great sporting events like today’s Super Bowl are highly symbolic, showing that it is possible to build a culture of encounter and a world of peace. By participating in sport, we are able to go beyond our own self-interest — and in a healthy way — we learn to sacrifice, to grow in fidelity and respect the rules. May this year’s Super Bowl be a sign of peace, friendship and solidarity for the world. Thank you! #superbowl”
Did people like it? Let’s just say most felt #blessed.
You know it's gonna be a good game when the Pope blesses it❤ #SuperBowl
— ΑΣWΕΓVΕ (@AmandaHeinle1) February 5, 2017
The Pope had his own segment before the #SuperBowl talking about peace, friendship and following the rules…and that's everything right now
— Flopi (フロピ) (@waffleflopi) February 5, 2017
The Pope's Super Bowl message was extremely good, and there should be a similar such thing at every sports game #confessyourunpopularopinion
— Nathan (@c_d_f_e) February 6, 2017
You know the world needs a change when the pope comments on inclusion and peace before the Superbowl. Literally only USA watches that sport.
— Nicole ♥️ (@nicolexavier111) February 6, 2017
We wonder who the Pope was rooting for during the Super Bowl… Hmm.
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