Pope Benedict XVI waves to faithful during the Angelus prayer at his summer residence of Castel Gandolfo, in the outskirts of Rome, Sunday, July 22, 2012. Benedict XVI says he's "deeply shocked" by the "senseless violence" in the Colorado movie theater shootings and is offering his prayers so the survivors and relatives of the victims can find strength. He also said he hopes the Olympics Games starting July 27 in London will help promote peace and reconciliation in the world. (AP Photo/Riccardo De Luca)
VATICAN CITY - Pope Benedict XVI says he hopes the Olympics will help promote peace and reconciliation in the world.
Benedict said the games, which kick off July 27 in London, carry a "strong symbolic value" in bringing athletes from around the world together.
Speaking Sunday during his traditional blessing, Benedict said he hopes the U.N.'s call for a truce in all countries during the Olympics will promote peace and reconciliation around the world during the sporting event.
The Vatican has recently launched a new sporting office as a sign of its interest in infusing the sporting world with Christian values.
Benedict spoke from the papal summer residence at Castel Gandolfo, south of Rome.
