Biden honors Pope Francis with the Presidential Medal of Freedom

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

Biden was scheduled to personally present the medal to the pope in Rome on Saturday during what would be the final foreign trip of his presidency, but Biden canceled his travel plans so he could monitor the wildfires in California.

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

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

The quote for the pope says, “His mission to serve the poor has never ceased. As a loving pastor, he joyfully answers children’s questions about God. As a challenging teacher, he commands us to fight for peace and protect the planet. As a hospitable leader, he reaches out reaching out to different religions.”

Biden is preparing to leave office on January 20 and has done so honors distributed Unpleasant prominent individualsincluding supporters and allies, in recent weeks.