VATICAN CITY — Pope Leo XIV has announced his prayer intention for the month of June, inviting the global Catholic community to pray “for the values of sports,” highlighting athletics as a pathway to human growth, fraternity, and peace. The intention was shared through the Vatican’s official channels as part of the monthly tradition that encourages the faithful to reflect on key social and spiritual themes.

In his message, Pope Leo emphasized that sports are more than compeтιтion or entertainment. When lived with integrity, he said, they become a school of discipline, teamwork, respect, and perseverance. He encouraged athletes, coaches, and fans to foster environments where dignity and fairness take precedence over rivalry or the pursuit of victory at any cost.

The Pope also drew attention to the importance of protecting young athletes from exploitation and unhealthy pressures. He warned against practices that reduce sports to mere commercial gain, stressing instead the need to preserve their educational and formative value.

“Sport can become a bridge between peoples,” the Pope noted, describing it as a powerful tool for dialogue and encounter across cultures and nations. He urged communities to see sporting activities as opportunities to build friendship and solidarity, especially in a world often marked by division.

Pope Leo’s prayer intention reflects his broader vision of human development, where physical activity, moral values, and spiritual life are deeply connected. By encouraging prayer for the values of sports, he calls on believers to rediscover athletics as a means of promoting peace, unity, and mutual respect across society.