COMMENTARY: Pope Francis, on Jan. 11, became the third pope to be given the highest civilian honor in the U.S.

WASHINGTON DC- On January 12, President Joe Biden conferred the Presidential Medal of Freedom with Distinction on Pope Francis, recognizing the pontiff’s profound influence and global contributions. The honor comes just days before Biden’s term as president concludes.

President Joe Biden awarded Pope Francis the Presidential Medal of Freedom with Distinction, recognizing him as a recipient of the nation s highest civilian honor