OLYMPICS 2012

Olympic Teams arrive at Heahtrow

In a little under eleven hours the opening ceremonies for the 2012 Olympic Games will begin in London and watched by an estimated 1 Billion viewers worldwide.  Whether we are sport interested people or not, runner or couch potatoes it will effect our lives in some way or other even, if it is only the travel delays.  Over the last seven years there have been a host of negative reports and complaints about these games.  But now they are here it is time to put these behind us.  As one of the chaplains to the games said this morning; they are a time for peace and togetherness. Even Paul used the athletes as an image so why do we not do the same. 

This prayer was written and is used by the pupils of St Catherines R.C. Primary School, Didbury:

Two icons: The Olypic Torch and Brunel's Bridge

God of Unity and Peace, you bring the world together during the Olympics to celebrate the achievements of gifted athletes and the people and countries who support them.

We pray for the success of the Olympic Games and the Paralympic games in London.  May the participating athletes and their supporters have fun, work well together and grow in respect and appreciation of the people and traditions of other countries. Lord, bless the contestants  their families and their countrymen.
May the Olympic experience allow them not only to feel proud and be a source of inspiration to each other but also to be thankful for the talents that God has given them.

We ask this through Christ, our Lord.
AMEN
Let's use it today.