President Biden honored Pope Francis with the Presidential Medal of Freedom with distinction, the highest civilian honor bestowed by the president on Saturday, saying the pontiff was a “light of faith, hope and love that shines brightly throughout the world.”
Mr. Biden was expected to travel to Rome this weekend and present the medal to Francis in person, but he canceled what would have been his last trip abroad as president to be able to monitor the California wildfires.
The White House said Biden gave the pope the award during a phone call in which they also discussed efforts to promote peace and alleviate suffering around the world.
Kevin Lamarque / AP
This is the only time Mr. Biden has presented this honor with distinction during his presidency. Mr. Biden himself is the recipient of the award with distinction, given while he was vice president by then-President Barack Obama in a surprise ceremony eight years ago. It was the only time during Obama’s two terms that he awarded this version of the medal.
THE quote for the pope said “his mission to serve the poor has never ceased. A loving pastor, he happily answers children’s questions about God. A stimulating teacher, he commands us to fight for peace and protect the planet. A welcoming leader, he addresses different faiths.
Francis expressed sadness Saturday over the ongoing wildfires in and around Los Angeles.
“Saddened by the loss of life and widespread destruction caused by the fires near Los Angeles,” Francis expressed his “spiritual closeness” to the victims, Vatican Cardinal No. 2 Pietro Parolin said in a telegram.
“He also prays for the relief efforts of emergency service personnel and gives his blessing to all as a token of consolation and strength in the Lord,” Parolin said.
Mr. Biden is preparing to leave office on January 20 and has distributed the honors to prominent figures, including supporters and allies, in recent weeks.