WASHINGTON, DC – Congressman John Garamendi (D-Fairfield, CA) is notifying his constituents of the limited availability of tickets to see Pope Francis become the first sitting pontiff in history to make an address to a Joint Session of Congress.

The speech will take place on Sept. 24.

The Pope will deliver his speech to Congress at 10 a.m., and then make an appearance on the West steps of the Capitol.

Tickets made available through Rep. Garamendi’s office are only available to residents of California’s Third Congressional District, and will be assigned through a random lottery.

Tickets will allow ticketholders to watch a simulcast of the speech on the West Lawn of the Capitol.

Requests for tickets can be made through http://garamendi.house.gov/papal-visit-lottery .

Requesters are advised that this lottery is for tickets to the West Lawn only, and that winners will be responsible for lodging, transportation to Washington, and all other travel expenses.

“Pope Francis has been a vocal leader in encouraging the world to address the critical issues of our time, such as climate change, global poverty, and human rights. I am very excited to welcome him to Washington,” said Garamendi. “I’m grateful that some of my constituents will have an opportunity to join me in witnessing this historic event.”

Pope Francis is expected to make an appearance on the West Steps of the Capitol after his address.