Biden awards Pope Francis the Presidential Medal of Freedom with Distinction

President Biden honored Pope Francis with Presidential Medal of Freedom Cum Laude, the highest civilian honor bestowed by the president, on Saturday, saying that the Pope was “a light of faith, hope and love that shines throughout the world.”

Biden was scheduled to travel to Rome this weekend and present the medal to Francis in person, but he… He canceled what would have been his final overseas trip As president so he can monitor wildfires in California.

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

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

the Quote by the Pope “His mission to serve the poor has never stopped,” he says. “He is a loving pastor, who happily answers children’s questions about God. He is a challenging teacher, commanding us to fight for peace and protect the planet. He is a welcoming leader, reaching out to different faiths.”

Francis on Saturday expressed sadness over the ongoing wildfires in and around Los Angeles.

Cardinal Pietro Parolin, the Vatican’s No. 2, said in a telegram that he was “saddened by the loss of life and widespread devastation caused by the fires near Los Angeles,” and expressed his “spiritual closeness” to the victims.

“He also prays for the relief efforts of emergency services personnel and extends his blessing to all as a token of comfort and strength in the Lord,” Parolin said.

Mr. Biden is preparing to leave office on January 20, and he has done so Medals were distributed to prominent individuals, including supporters and allies, in recent weeks.