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. (For more sports news and updates, follow Ahram Online Sports on Twitter at @AO Sports and on Facebook at AhramOnlineSports)