Their conversation was the longest between the pope and a head of state since Francis’ meeting with President Obama in 2014.

During an inflight news conference June 21, the pope was asked about his recent decision requesting the Catholic bishops' conference of Germany not publish nationwide guidelines for allowing Communion for such couples.

“Walking, praying and working together: This is the great path that we are called to follow.”

A record 68.5 million people had been driven from their homes across the world at the end of 2017. That total was 2.9 million more than at the end of 2016.

The W.C.C. general secretary described Francis’ visit as “a strong signal of recognition by the Catholic world.”

Pope Francis said he stands with the U.S. bishops who recently condemned the Trump administration's policy on immigration that has led to children being held in government shelters while their parents are sent to federal prisons.