New Details Released On Pope Francis' U.S. Trip
ROME (CBS) -- Chicago Archbishop Blase Cupich is wrapping up his visit to the Vatican as Pope Francis prepares for two big trips, including one to the United States.
CBS 2 Chief Correspondent Jay Levine has more on the pope's travel plans
Pope Francis is preparing to leave for South America this weekend and he has revealed what he'll do in the U.S. this fall.
Archbishop Cupich, who'll be along U.S. bishops meeting with the pope, says his focus on immigration policy is certain to be echoed by Pope Francis.
"He is coming from Cuba, he is not Italy or from the Vatican directly, which is a place where some immigrant have come and I think it is a way for him to give expression to the importance of our land as a country of immigrants," Cupich said.
The six-day visit to Washington, New York and then Philadelphia will include addresses to a joint session of Congress, the United Nations and the church's world meeting of families, but also some unconventional stops.
"He has chosen to go into a correctional center," said Fr. Manuel Dorantes. "We're about to start the year of mercy."
Chicago priest Manuel Dorantes is also a Vatican media spokesman. He tells Levine while the papal visit is certain to have its share of political controversy, the pope isn't coming as a politician.
"He's coming as the one who unites, who is called to be a bridge, literally a pontifex, bringing people together," said Fr. Dorantes.
Archbishop Cupich is confident Pope Francis will be able to sidestep potential political land mines.
"He's gonna defuse any political landmines by his approach that people already appreciate," Cupich said.
Cupich will only be with the pope twice during those six days, with all the other U.S. Bishops. But his influence is increasing and he could end up back here in October, appointed by the pope as a special delegate to a major church gathering on controversial family.