New York trio gives pope tickets to essay writers, not eBay

PHILADELPHIA (WPVI) -- While World Meeting of Families organizers say they took precautions so no one person could buy papal tickets in bulk, some nabbed them for profit, but at least one group received some to give right back for free.

Inside the knotted grotto Tuesday night, the faithful were spiritually preparing by writing intentions for Pope Francis on ribbons. But many were disappointed earlier in the day, when 10,000 free tickets to see the pope at Independence Hall were ordered in less than two minutes on the WMOF website.

Minutes later, the same free tickets were found for sale on eBay and Craigslist, some going as high as $1,000.

"I think it stinks. This is for everybody to have an opportunity," Sister Margaret Sullivan of Collingswood, NJ said.

"It's not in the spirit of the visit, but what are you going to do? Free enterprise, right?" John Barrett of Center City said.

eBay tells Action News it is against their policy and they are in the process of removing the posts.

One seller told Action News this is "capitalism at its finest" and "the city is making money on this why can't I?"

Mayor Michael Nutter responded, "That's trifling. It's just trifling."

Then there is Devin, a Robin Hood of sorts, when it comes to papal tickets.

"Initially, we just wanted to see if we could get them because we saw all the news reports saying that all these tickets were about to be released for free and they are going to sell out instantly," Devin said.

With his merry men, Dustin and David, the high school buddies from West Chester, New York, claimed four tickets then posted on Craigslist 'if you want them, tell us why.'

100 people responded with essays; now the winners will go for free.

"Let's find people that really truly deserve them and have those people be the ones that get to see the pope when he's going to be in Philadelphia," Devin said.

One winner is from Louisiana and the other is a couple from Delaware County.

Devin, Dustin, and David did not want their last names used.

To view the Craigslist post, click here.