Pope Francis satisfies united state President Joe Biden at the Vatican, October 29, 2021.
Vatican Media|Reuters
President Joe Biden has actually granted Pope Francis the Presidential Medal of Freedom with difference, the very first time in his term the head of state has actually presented that honor, the White House introduced on Saturday.
“The first pope from the Southern Hemisphere, Pope Francis is unlike any who came before,” the White House composed in a declaration. “Above all, he is the People’s Pope — a light of faith, hope, and love that shines brightly across the world.”
The White House likewise stated Biden spoke to the Pope today to inform him regarding the honor.
The 2 likewise “discussed efforts to advance peace around the world, including Pope Francis’ work to alleviate suffering for vulnerable communities,” the White House stated.
In a tweet, Biden likewise composed, “Pope Francis, your humility and your grace are beyond words, and your love for all is unparalleled.”
The honor follows Biden was compelled to terminate a journey to the Vatican this weekend break to remain back and keep track of the disastrous wildfires in California.
The 2 last fulfilled in June, when Biden participated in the G-7 Leaders’ Summit in Apulia,Italy At the moment, both discussed the continuous battles in Ukraine and Gaza.
In a statement at the time, the Vatican stated, “The leaders emphasized the urgent need for an immediate ceasefire and a hostage deal to get the hostages home and address the critical humanitarian crisis in Gaza. President Biden thanked Pope Francis for the Vatican’s work to address the humanitarian impacts of Russia’s war of aggression in Ukraine, including his efforts to help return kidnapped Ukrainian children to their families.”
Not just is this the very first Presidential Medal of Freedom that Biden has actually granted with difference, yet it’s the very first Medal of Freedom granted with difference considering that President Barack Obama granted one to after that-Vice President Biden
Biden is the second Roman Catholic to be chosen head of state. President John F. Kennedy, the country’s 35th head of state, was the very first.
