President Joe Biden awarded Pope Francis the Presidential Medal of Freedom on Saturday, calling him “a light of faith, hope, and love that illuminates the world.” The Medal of Freedom is the highest civilian award bestowed by the president.
Biden was scheduled to present the medal to the pope in person in Rome on Saturday during his final overseas trip as president, but Biden canceled his travel plans so he could monitor wildfires in California.
The White House said Biden presented the medal to the pope in a phone call, and the two also discussed efforts to promote peace and alleviate suffering around the world.
“His mission to serve the poor never stopped,” the text of the pontiff’s commendation said. “As a caring priest, he joyfully answered children’s questions about God. As a challenging teacher, he commanded us to fight for peace and protect the planet. As a passionate leader, he embraced different faiths.”
Biden, who is preparing to leave office on January 20, has awarded the Medal of Honor to prominent figures in recent weeks, including supporters and allies.
By
