Rep. Bonnie Watson Coleman will hold a lottery to award tickets to see Pope Francis on the U.S. Capitol grounds in Washington.
WASHINGTON -- Like other members of the New Jersey congressional delegation, U.S. Rep. Bonnie Watson Coleman will hold a lottery to hand out tickets to see Pope Francis on the grounds of the U.S. Capitol.
"This is a truly incredible moment in history, and an amazing opportunity to take part in it," said Watson Coleman (D-12th Dist.).
On Sept. 24, Francis is scheduled to become the first pope to address a joint meeting of Congress. Afterwards, he is to appear on the West Front of the Capitol, the site of the presidential inauguration ceremony. Those on the Capitol grounds first will be able to see the speech on giant television screens.
Residents of the 12th Congressional District have through Sept. 10 to register on the congresswoman's website. Winners are responsible for their own travel and accommodations. Tickets are standing-room only.
Jonathan D. Salant may be reached at jsalant@njadvancemedia.com. Follow him on Twitter @JDSalant. Find NJ.com Politics on Facebook.