Pope Francis inaugurated a special year of Mercy at the Vatican on Tuesday but fears of terrorism meant that the crowds in St Peter’s Square were much more modest than expected.
The Vatican had hoped that up to 100,000 people would take part in an open-air Mass in the huge Renaissance piazza, but in the end an estimated 40,000 people attended.
Pope Francis inaugurates special Year of Mercy. The Jubilee Year of Mercy is intended to show a more open, merciful side of the Roman Catholic Church, in keeping with the message pushed by Pope Francis since he was elected in March 2013.
Jubilee years are normally held every 25 or 50 years but popes are able to announce special jubilees in between if they choose.