In 1954, Pius named Montini Archbishop of Milan, the largest Italian diocese. While in the Secretariat of State, Montini and Domenico Tardini were considered to be the closest and most influential advisors of Pope Pius XII. Montini served in the Holy See's Secretariat of State from 1922 to 1954. He fostered improved ecumenical relations with Eastern Orthodox and Protestant churches, which resulted in many historic meetings and agreements. Succeeding John XXIII, he continued the Second Vatican Council, which he closed in 1965, implementing its numerous reforms. Pope Paul VI ( Latin: Paulus VI Italian: Paolo VI born Giovanni Battista Enrico Antonio Maria Montini, Italian: 26 September 1897 – 6 August 1978) was head of the Catholic Church and sovereign of the Vatican City State from 21 June 1963 to his death in 1978. Bishops consecrated by Pope Paul VI as principal consecrator
