On October 29, 2021, at the Vatican, Pope Francis had an impactful meeting with U.S. President Joe Biden, marking a significant moment between two influential leaders. This interaction carries particular weight as President Biden, for the first time in his administration, has conferred the prestigious Presidential Medal of Freedom with distinction upon the Pope, as announced by the White House on a recent Saturday.
The White House issued a statement portraying Pope Francis as a unique pontiff hailing from the Southern Hemisphere, emphasizing his global influence as “the People’s Pope.” His commitment to faith, hope, and love is seen as a beacon worldwide. President Biden took the opportunity to directly convey the news of this honor to the Pope during their conversation earlier that day.
During their dialogue, they also exchanged views on global peace initiatives, particularly the Pope’s efforts to support vulnerable communities. This conversation underscored their shared commitment to humanitarian causes, a sentiment President Biden echoed on Twitter, praising the Pope’s unmatched humility, grace, and universal love.
This honorary award follows President Biden’s decision to remain in the United States due to the severe wildfires ravaging California, canceling a planned trip to the Vatican. Previously, Biden and the Pope engaged in discussions this past June during the G-7 Leaders’ Summit in Italy. Their talks covered pressing issues like the ongoing conflicts in Ukraine and Gaza.
Back then, both leaders stressed the importance of immediate actions to cease hostilities and secure a deal to rescue hostages, as detailed in a Vatican statement. President Biden expressed gratitude for the Vatican’s ongoing support in alleviating the humanitarian impacts of the conflict in Ukraine, especially its efforts to reunite kidnapped Ukrainian children with their families.
This occasion marks the first instance of a distinction being added to the Presidential Medal of Freedom by President Biden, echoing a similar gesture by former President Barack Obama when he honored Biden himself, then Vice President, with the medal.
As the second Roman Catholic to hold the U.S. presidency after John F. Kennedy, President Biden holds a unique connection to the Pope, underscoring the historic nature of this award and their ongoing dialogue on issues spanning the globe.
