Obama praises the Dalai Lama at National Prayer Breakfast

President Obama offered his praise to the Dalai Lama for his work as a religious example during the National Prayer Breakfast.

According to CNN, the spiritual leader of Tibetan Buddhism was among several other politicians, diplomats, and faith leaders at the annual gathering. Obama singled out the Dalai Lama for representing the positive ideologies of religion in a time where it is often misconstrued.

"[The Dalai Lama is] a powerful example of what it means to practice compassion who inspires us to speak up for the dignity and freedom of all," Obama said.

Although a formal meeting was not planned, the Dalai Lama was seated by Valerie Jarrett, one of Obama's close advisors, as a symbol of support from the White House.

MSN reports that Obama called out the Islamic State along with the terrorists responsible for the Charlie Hebdo attack in Paris for distorting religion for their own needs. Obama also spoke of his support for the freedom of religious expression around the world and the importance of keeping church and state seperate in the United States.