Biden honors Pope Francis with the Presidential Medal of Freedom

May Be Interested In:Former college adjunct professor gets 8 years in prison for sexually abusing women from El Salvador


WASHINGTON — President Joe Biden on Saturday honored Pope Francis with the Presidential Medal of Freedom with distinction, the highest civilian award given by the president, saying the pontiff was “a light of faith, hope, and love that shines brightly across the world.”

Biden had been scheduled to present the medal to the pope in person on Saturday in Rome on what was to be the final overseas trip of his presidency, but Biden canceled his travel plans so he could monitor the wildfires in California.

The White House said Biden bestowed the award to the pope during a phone call in which they also discussed efforts to promote peace and alleviate suffering around the world.

It’s the only time Biden has presented the honor with distinction during his presidency. Biden himself is a recipient of the award with distinction, recognized when he was vice president by then-President Barack Obama in a surprise ceremony eight years ago. That was the only time in Obama’s two terms when he awarded that version of the medal.

The citation for the pope says “his mission of serving the poor has never ceased. A loving pastor, he joyfully answers children’s questions about God. A challenging teacher, he commands us to fight for peace and protect the planet. A welcoming leader, he reaches out to different faiths.”

Biden is preparing to leave office Jan. 20 and has doled out honors to prominent individuals, including supporters and allies, in recent weeks.

share Share facebook pinterest whatsapp x print

Similar Content

Internal divisions doom Michigan Democrats in their final days of legislative control
Internal divisions doom Michigan Democrats in their final days of legislative control
Daniel Penny doesn't testify as his defense rests in subway chokehold trial
Daniel Penny doesn’t testify as his defense rests in subway chokehold trial
Navajo Nation firefighters battle wildfires in Los Angeles
Navajo Nation firefighters battle wildfires in Los Angeles
Gubernatorial candidate Mark Robinson treated for burns received at appearance, campaign says
Gubernatorial candidate Mark Robinson treated for burns received at appearance, campaign says
Trump is targeting antisemitism in schools. Experts fear other civil rights will be ignored
Trump is targeting antisemitism in schools. Experts fear other civil rights will be ignored
Man with loaded gun arrested at checkpoint near Donald Trump's weekend rally in Southern California
Man with loaded gun arrested at checkpoint near Donald Trump’s weekend rally in Southern California

Leave a Reply

The World Unveiled: Today's Most Shocking Headlines | © 2025 | Daily News