Pope Francis to give United States Mass in Spanish

Decision mirrors amount of Hispanic Catholics in the U.S.

Cardinal Donald William Wuerl has announced Pope Francis' decision to give his Washington Mass on September 23 in Spanish.

LOS ANGELES, CA (Catholic Online) - "It's a recognition of how large the Hispanic population in the United States is," Wuerl said. "And he's coming as the first pope from the New World and the predominant language in this hemisphere is Spanish."

Pope Francis plans to speak to Congress in English about bipartisanship.

Wuerl added, "We have to find a way to work together." The Pontiff's message will be, "It's possible to work together."

Pope Francis' native language is Spanish and he feels more comfortable speaking it. Jumbotrons will provide translations for non-Spanish-speakers.

The Spanish Mass is expecting 25,000 at the Basilica of the National Shrine of the Immaculate Conception.

The Pontiff plans to meet with President Obama before traveling to New York City and Philadelphia. Wuerl also mentioned that the church and pope want people to welcome immigrants, particularly those fleeing terror in places like Hungary and other European nations.

Wuerl continued, saying Pope Francis may urge America to stand stronger against terrorism, adding, "silence is a factor in atrocities."

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