Pope Francis Honoured With Presidential Medal of Freedom by US President

Washington, D.C, January 12, 2025: In a historic gesture, U.S President Joe Biden awarded Pope Francis the Presidential Medal of Freedom with Distinction on January 11 in recognition of his unwavering commitment to peace, human rights, environmental protection, and care for the poor. The honor, the highest civilian award in the United States, was announced during a phone call between the two leaders on January 12.

The medal was to be presented to the Holy Father during Biden’s visit to the Vatican on January 10. However, due to Biden’s need to handle the ongoing wildfire emergency in Los Angeles, the planned visit was cancelled. Instead, Archbishop Christophe Pierre, the Apostolic Nuncio to the United States, accepted the medal on behalf of Pope Francis.

This marks Biden's second dialogue with Pope Francis, following their December 20 discussion focused on human rights, particularly the Pope’s concerns over federal death row inmates. In response, Biden commuted the death sentences of 37 individuals, reflecting a shared commitment to justice and compassion.

After the presentation, The White House released a statement highlighting Pope Francis’ lifelong dedication to serving the vulnerable and promoting peace. The statement read:

“As a young man, Jorge Bergoglio sought a career in science before faith led him to a life with the Jesuits. For decades, he served the voiceless and vulnerable across Argentina. As Pope Francis, his mission of serving the poor has never ceased. A loving pastor, he joyfully answers children’s questions about God. A challenging teacher, he commands us to fight for peace and protect the planet. A welcoming leader, he reaches out to different faiths. The first pope from the Southern Hemisphere, Pope Francis is unlike any who came before. Above all, he is the People’s Pope – a light of faith, hope, and love that shines brightly across the world.”

Sharing a photo of the award presentation on X (formerly Twitter), Biden expressed his deep admiration for Pope Francis, stating, “Pope Francis, your humility and your grace are beyond words, and your love for all is unparalleled. As the People’s Pope, you are a light of faith, hope, and love that shines brightly across the world. Today, it was my honor to award His Holiness Pope Francis the Presidential Medal of Freedom with Distinction.”

This historic accolade makes Pope Francis the second pontiff to receive the Presidential Medal of Freedom, following Pope John Paul II, who was honored by President George W. Bush in 2004 for his tireless advocacy for peace and human dignity.

Courtesy: Vatican News