Neymar, Rakitic and other athletes participate in “We Play For Peace” initiative, in solidarity with the Pontiff
Football players have sent messages of encouragement to the Gemelli Hospital in Rome since February 14. The initiative is part of the event “We Play for Peace, the Game for Peace”which supports the programs of Occurrent Scholas (an international network linked to the Pope that unites art students, sports and technology).
“Francisco, I am here to wish you a lot of strength at this time and send you a big hug with great affection and also my prayers, may God be with you”said Neymar, Brazilian player, in his message to the Pontiff.
Croatian player Ivan Rakitic also sent a message of encouragement. “Dear Pope, I’m Ivan Rakitic, I would like to send a message of great encouragement and a lot of strength. Know that you are not alone in this battle ”he said.
San Lorenzo, the Pope’s heart team, participated in the initiative. Iker Munian, team captain, also sent a message. “Dear Pope Francis, from here, from his home, from his club, from his beloved San Lorenzo, we sent a big hug. We wish a quick recovery ”declared Munian.
Ciro Ferrara, Italian coach, used Saint Augustine’s words to encourage the Pope. “Those who love peace must be praised, those who hate it should not be provoked with censorship. Those who truly love peace also love the enemies of peace ”these.
