How do I get tickets to the Pope's Mass?

Now that Pope Benedict's upcoming visit to the U.S. (next April 15-20th) has been announced, it's no surprise that everyone and his lapsed-brother wants to get tickets to the Pop's public Masses in New York City at Yankee stadium, or Washington D.C. at the newly-opened National's stadium (or both). I've received many requests and have see the question asked often around various websites.

As part of my goal to provide the best, most up-to-date publically-available information regarding the Pope's upcoming trip, here's what I've been able to find out so far. I'll be posting more information when I find it.

• Tickets to the Pope's NYC Mass on April 20th will be free (scalpers need not apply). The Archdiocese of New York plans to distribute the tickets through its parishes, and tickets will also be available to folks coming from elsewhere. The phone number for the Archdiocese is (212) 371-1000. Don't all call at once. When the tickets become available I'll provide that information as well. From what I've heard, a reference from your local bishop, or requests coming from an official Church organization (youth group, retreat center, etc.) sometimes get a higher priority. No tickets are publically available yet.

The tickets will not be available on traditional event websites such as Ticketmaster, they will be "going through the Bishops." So now might be a nice time to buy your local shepherd a bottle of wine. It's a good idea anyway.

• Tickets to the Pope's Washington DC Mass on April 17th will also, presumably, be free and distributed through the Archdiocese of Washington, D.C. That contact number is (301) 853-4500. The Archdioceses of Baltimore and Arlington will also receive a limited number of tickets. None are available yet.

Okay, there you have it. If I've missed anything, post it in comments or drop me a line. Viva il Papa!

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