Pope Francis to inaugurate Holy Year of Mercy amid security concerns

c. 2015 Religion News Service

VATICAN CITY (RNS) Pope Francis will open the Catholic Church’s jubilee on mercy tomorrow (December 8), a nearly yearlong event that is expected to bring millions of pilgrims to Rome despite security concerns and logistical challenges.

After months of anticipation the jubilee will get underway with Francis overseeing the opening of the Holy Door, an entrance in St. Peter’s Basilica that is sealed apart from during holy years. The moment will be live-streamed around the world and the event is expected to attract huge crowds to the Vatican, where strict security measures will be in place.