For the first time in its 70-year history, the Religious Education Congress (RECongress) hosted an Arabic-language Mass, drawing hundreds of worshippers and marking a milestone in Catholic cultural inclusion at the annual event of the Archdiocese of Los Angeles.
The Arabic Mass took place on 21 February 2026 and was celebrated by Father Ala Musharbash, chaplain of the Arab American Catholic Community (AACC), based at St. Joseph Church in Pomona, California. The AACC, which began in 1989, is composed of an estimated 6,000 families with roots in Palestine, Jordan, Syria, Lebanon, Iraq and Egypt, reflecting the rich diversity of Arab Catholic heritage in the United States.
The bilingual liturgy was a highlight of the congress, with the Gospel proclaimed in English, while many prayers, readings and parts of the Mass—including the Confiteor and consecration—were spoken in Arabic. Screens displayed both Arabic and English texts, along with pronunciation guides to help all attendees participate in prayer and song. Musharbash noted that Arabic is closely related to Aramaic, the language of Christ, making the liturgy especially meaningful for worshippers.
An icon of Our Lady of the Holy Land—featuring Mary in Palestinian attire and Jesus wearing a keffiyeh—stood on the altar, blessed by Archbishop José H. Gómez in 2025, symbolizing faith and cultural identity woven together.
In his homily, Father Musharbash encouraged attendees to trust in God amid life’s struggles, reminding them that Jesus calls every heart, regardless of weakness. He also invited prayers for global peace, with special emphasis on the Middle East, urging the faithful to place their hope not in politics but in God’s mercy.The Arabic Mass at RECongress 2026 stands as a powerful testament to the Catholic Church’s universal nature and cultural richness, uniting believers in worship, tradition and common faith.