Joe Biden Awards the Pope the Presidential Medal of Freedom

President Joe Biden has presented Pope Francis with the Presidential Medal of Freedom with Distinction , the country’s highest civilian honor. by awarding holy pope this super prestigious  award, USA recognize the Pope’s continues and undisturbed commitment to peace, human rights.

As a lifelong Catholic, this is contemptible. Pope Francis has not supported the Catholic doctrine and neither has Biden. Who thinks that Biden has weakened the Presidential medal of Freedom by giving it to so many unworthy people? pic.twitter.com/CTwuPc0sa6

— 💥Texas Girl💥 (@Ilegvm) January 12, 2025

Joe Biden Awards the Pope?

On Jan. 11, during a phone call with Pope Francis, President Biden announced the award. The virtual meeting replaced a scheduled in-person audience at the Vatican, which was canceled because of a wildfire emergency in Los Angeles that made it impossible for Biden to travel to Rome.

A Continuing Dialogue

This phone call is the second conversation in recent weeks between Biden and Pope Francis, who spoke on December 20. In their first conversation, and while advocating for Joe Biden, the Pope raised fears about the inmates on the federal death row, which prompted Biden to commute the sentences of 37 people. They were both men of justice, compassion and human rights.

President Biden thanked the Pope for working to ease suffering worldwide, advocate for human rights and preserve religious freedom. It was awarded for key reasons including these efforts.

Recognition of Others

Among those awarded this year with the Presidential Medal of Freedom, for their contributions to the values, prosperity and security of the United States and to global peace, is Pope Francis. The Pope’s recognition was not disclosed until this announcement.

A Statement From The White House

The White House issued a statement praising Pope Francis, and noting his life’s journey and work:

Early Life : Jorge Bergoglio, originally a science student, took another path — into a life of faith, as a member of the Jesuit order that works with some of Argentina’s neediest people.

— As Pope Francis: He has dedicated himself to serving the poor, caring for the planet and promoting peace. Dubbed the “People’s Pope,” he welcomes adherents of all faiths and inspires hope, love and faith to the world.

Biden’s Tribute

Pope Francis and then presented to the Apostolic Nuncio to the United States, Archbishop Christophe Pierre. Biden expressed his condolences on his official X (previously Twitter) account:

“Pope Francis, you are a humble and graceful leader whose love for all surpasses all.” As the People’s Pope, you are a shining pillar of faith, hope and love. “My great honor to present to you the Presidential Medal of Freedom with Distinction.”

Historical Context

It is only the second time this honor has been bestowed upon a Pope. In 2004, the medal was presented to Pope John Paul II by President George W. Bush in acknowledgment of the pontiff’s calls for peace and advocacy for human dignity.

Pope Francis’ recognition solidifies Francis’s legacy around the world as now even more grounded in compassion, responsiveness, and service.