President Biden awarded the nation's highest civilian honor, the Presidential Medal of Freedom, to Pope Francis on Saturday.
The honor specifically came "with distinction," becoming the first person to receive the added level of honor by Biden.
In a statement, the White House commended Pope Francis for his commitment to serving the poor, as well as advocating for peace and protecting the planet.
"A loving pastor, he joyfully answers children's questions about God. A challenging teacher, he commands us to fight for peace and protect the planet. A welcoming leader, he reaches out to different faiths. The first pope from the Southern Hemisphere, Pope Francis is unlike any who came before," the statement read.
It concluded: "Above all, he is the People's Pope — a light of faith, hope, and love that shines brightly across the world."
Biden is the second Catholic president in U.S. history. But unlike John F. Kennedy, who was known for downplaying his faith, Biden has embraced it.
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