Pope Francis honoured by Joe Biden with highest civilian award Pope Francis has been honoured with America's highest civilian award by President Joe Biden, who has described the pontiff as "a light of faith, hope, and love that shines brightly across the world".
Mr Biden presented the medal of freedom - without distinction - on 5 January to several people including fellow Democrat Hillary Clinton, humanitarian and U2 singer Bono, fashion designer Ralph Lauren and actors Michael J Fox and Denzel Washington.
The White House said Mr Biden bestowed the award during a phone call in which they also discussed efforts to promote peace and alleviate suffering around the world.
In a statement, the White House said the award is "presented to individuals who have made exemplary contributions to the prosperity, values, or security of the United States, world peace, or other significant societal, public or private endeavours".
Mr Biden had been scheduled to present the medal to Pope Francis, 88, in person on Saturday in Rome on what was to be the final overseas trip of his presidency.
