Pope highlights the social value of draughts board game

By Lisa Zengarini

Pope Francis welcomed to the Vatican on Friday a delegation of the Italian Draughts Association as they celebrate the 100th anniversary of its foundation.

Greeting the group in the Clementine Hall, the Pope highlighted two features of this ancient game which, he said, are particularly valuable in today’s individualistic societies.

A game for everyone

First of all, he remarked, it’s accessible to everyone and it is played in various parts of the world:  “It's one of those games with which, wherever you are, you can easily create a moment of encounter and fun.”

The Pope also noted that the game is particularly popular among migrants as they arrive in other countries after perilous journeys: “Many of these brothers and sisters, in situations of great uncertainty and apprehension, find relief in playing draughts.”

A game that stimulates intellectual skills

Pope Francis went on to note that draughts is also a stimulating game that helps players to exercise logical abilities. This, he said, is all the more important at a time when our intellectual skills are negatively affected by new media forms.

An antidote to individualism

Concluding his brief greeting, Pope Francis commended the members of the association for its activities, which, he said, bring a breath of fresh to our individualistic societies.