The Bishop’s Cup 2024 was held at Saint Paul Institute on May 1, 2024. Over 1,100 people from 23 different locations in the Phnom Penh Vicariate attended the event, which featured a day full of exciting football, volleyball, basketball, and petanque competitions. The events started at 7:30 a.m. and ended at 5:30 p.m.

Through the global language of sports, this yearly sporting event aimed to promote peace and harmony in addition to the joy of victory. Bishop Olivier emphasized in his speech to the attendees the value of these athletic activities in fostering interpersonal harmony and understanding, as well as openness and communities to foster joy and peace. He continued, with the approaching Olympic Games in Paris, France as inspiration, the important message of peace that is present in the spirit of sportsmanship. He reminded everyone of the significant role sports play in breaking down boundaries and fostering solidarity and peace as the globe gets ready to see athletes from all backgrounds unite on the global stage. 

The headline “Sports bring health, friendship, brotherhood, forgiveness, and peace”— which is deeply rooted in sportsmanship— was the main focus of the Bishop’s speech. It was a moving reminder of sporting ideals that transcend competition and promote relationships across social, cultural, and geographic boundaries. These ideals are the foundation of athletic pursuits. Bishop Olivier’s Cup 2024 provided a platform for developing deep relationships and enduring friendships, in addition to the thrill of the competition. People from all walks of life gathered together, united by their love of sports and their wish for harmony and peace.

Upon completion of the competition, all athletes desire to spread the idea of sports in harmony with the community, promoting the virtues of wellness, fellowship, fraternity, and harmony beyond the playing field. Because sports bring people together and foster unity, there is hope for a more peaceful, joyful future where everyone can live in harmony.

Source: SPI