A high security presence is visible around St. Peter's Square as Pope Francis prepares for the start of the Holy Year and conducts the weekly general audience. Jennifer Davis reports.

Security was tight at the Vatican Wednesday as some 20,000 pilgrims gathered in St. Peter's square to listen to Pope Francis during the general audience.

Italy is currently on a level two alert following the attacks in Paris, but despite increased police presence around the Vatican - people say they want to focus on faith, not fear.

"We need to do everything we have always done, with a greater attention. We need to be vigilant, but life continues. We cannot stop in front of those who create terror, the terrorists," a priest said.

Military police checked bags and plain clothes officers mingled within the crowd.

But Pope Francis carried out business as usual. The first event to mark the Jubilee year will be the opening of the Holy Door in St. Peter's Basilica on December 8 and the pontiff says it must be open to all.

"We are nearly at the Jubilee, it is close. Ahead of us is the door but not only the Holy Door but the other door, the great door of God's mercy, which is a beautiful door. No closed doors in the church, none, everything must be open," Pope Francis said.

Behind the scenes, security forces are on high alert as the Holy Year approaches, working to safeguard the millions of pilgrims expected to arrive at the Vatican.  — Reuters