Pope Francis. Credit: Shutterstock.
In one of his final acts as President, Joe Biden awarded Pope Francis the Presidential Medal of Freedom with Distinction, the highest civilian honour in the United States.
The recognition celebrates Pope Francis’ dedication to global peace, human rights, environmental care, and serving the poor.
Pope Francis awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom with Distinction
The medal was presented during a telephone conversation between the two leaders on January 11, following an earlier conversation on December 20, 2024. This marks the second time in history that a Pope has received the prestigious honour – Pope John Paul II was similarly recognised in 2004 by President George W. Bush.
The award was presented to Archbishop Christophe Pierre, the Apostolic Nuncio to the United States, on behalf of Pope Francis. The White House emphasised that this was the only time during Biden’s presidency the medal was awarded with distinction, a rare honour even among recipients of the Presidential Medal of Freedom.
While the ceremony was initially planned as an in-person event at the Vatican on January 10, Biden cancelled his visit to monitor the wildfire crisis in LA. During their call, the Pope expressed his sadness over the devastation caused by the fires, offering prayers for victims and emergency responders.
President Biden’s official statement praised Pope Francis as “a light of faith, hope, and love that shines brightly across the world.”
Pope Francis, born Jorge Bergoglio, initially pursued a career in science before devoting his life to faith. He is the first Pope from the Southern Hemisphere.
Biden, a devout Catholic himself, has lauded Pope Francis as the “People’s Pope.” His final months in office have been marked by acts of recognition for individuals who have contributed to global peace and human rights. Biden prepares to leave office on January 20, to be replaced by Donald J. Trump.
