US President Joe Biden presented the Freedom Medal to Pope Francis on Saturday, the White House announced. This marks the first time Biden has awarded the medal in his presidency.
The Freedom Medal is the highest civilian honor awarded in the United States to individuals who have made a notable contribution to the prosperity, values, or security of the United States, world peace, or other significant social, public, or private endeavors.
“Early in his life, Jorge Bergoglio aspired to a career in science before his faith led him to a life of service among the Jesuits” Biden said in explaining the honor. “For decades, he has served the voiceless and the weak in Argentina. As Pope Francis, he has never given up on his mission to serve the poor.”
Biden continued, “As a loving shepherd, he answers the questions of children about God with joy. As a challenging teacher, he urges us to fight for peace and protect the planet.” As a “welcoming leader” the head of the Catholic Church “reaches out to various religions” the Democrat said.
“As the first pope from the southern hemisphere, Pope Francis is different from all those before him. Above all, he is the pope of the people – a beacon of faith, hope, and love that shines brightly around the world” Biden concluded.