Vatican City, Jun 4, 2018 / 03:33 pm (CNA/EWTN News).- In an address Monday to a delegation of the German Evangelical Lutheran Church, Pope Francis encouraged ongoing ecumenism between Catholics and Lutherans.

Referencing efforts such as “various joint prayers” and “many ecumenical meetings,” Francis observed an increased inclination toward Christian cooperation during the past year. He also emphasized its importance.

“It is increasingly becoming a necessity and a desire,” he said.