Official statements from the White House or Vatican press releases

Biden Awards Pope Francis Highest Civilian Honor, the Presidential Medal of Freedom With Distinction, Via Phone Call

Jan 11, 2025, 10:18 PM

President Joe Biden has awarded Pope Francis the Presidential Medal of Freedom with distinction, the highest civilian honor in the United States. The award was presented during a phone call, as Biden had to cancel his planned trip to Rome due to wildfires in California. During the call, Biden expressed his regret for not being able to visit. The White House stated that the two leaders also discussed efforts to promote peace and alleviate suffering around the world. This is the first time during Biden's presidency that he has bestowed the medal with distinction. Biden, a practicing Catholic, praised Pope Francis as 'a light of faith, hope, and love that shines brightly across the world.' The citation for the award highlights Pope Francis's commitment to serving the poor and his role as a welcoming leader who reaches out to different faiths. As the first pope from the Southern Hemisphere, Pope Francis is described as the 'People's Pope.'