On Jan. 11, 2025, President Joe Biden honored Pope Francis with the Presidential Medal of Freedom with distinction, the highest civilian award given by the president, saying the pontiff was "a light of faith, hope, and love that shines brightly across the world."
Biden had been scheduled to present the medal to the Pope in person on Saturday in Rome on what was to be the final overseas trip of his presidency; however, Biden canceled his travel plans so he could monitor the wildfires in California.
The White House said Biden bestowed the award to Pope Francis during a phone call in which they also discussed efforts to promote peace and alleviate suffering around the world.
Please select this link to read the complete article from The Associated Press.