Philadelphia officials erecting massive fence to protect Pope Francis, but from what exactly?

City officials have already announced a no-drive zone encompassing much of the Philadelphia city center for the two days of Pope Francis' visit. Now they are announcing that within that area, a fenced perimeter will be established. All who enter will be screened. 

LOS ANGELES, CA (Catholic Online) - When Pope Francis arrives to Philadelphia in September, security will be incredible. In addition to a "no drive zone," part of the city center will be fenced off meaning that everyone who wants to see Pope Francis will have to get there through secure entrances. 

The no drive zone has been established primarily for the benefit of pedestrians, which will be large in numbers. About two million people are expected to crowd into the center of the city, making driving impossible. Anyone who does drive will be permitted to leave the area, but not reenter. 

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The fenced zone, or "red zone" as officials are calling it, will encompass the areas where Pope Francis is expected to make public appearances. Anyone entering these areas will be screened. 

Some public officials have released pictures of maps they say show which areas will be cordoned off, but Mayor Nutter has cautioned that these maps may give false or inaccurate information. Final decisions have not yet been made with regards to boundaries. 

Meanwhile, Philadelphia police have complained to Mayor Nutter that they do not know what their assignments will be. This is likely because city officials are still planning the details of the visit and aren't sure themselves. Mayor Nutter has reassured the public that he has the situation in hand and things are expected to go smoothly. 

Preparations for the Holy Father's visit have not gone without remark from the public, some of who will be terribly inconvenienced by the crowds and closures. Some businesses will lose revenue as a result of being closed during all or part of the visit. The School District of Philadelphia will be closed from Wednesday through Friday and possibly on Monday too. The First Judicial District will be closed from Wednesday until Tuesday. City services in the area will operate on an "essential basis" meaning many workers will be assigned to other duties or not at all. 

Despite the closures and the losses that some will suffer, there will be many winners too. The hospitality and transit industries are booming with the anticipated crush, and many stores are expected to overstock their shelves before the pilgrims arrive. The visit of Pope Francis will be disruptive, but it will also bring millions of dollars in revenues to the city. 

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Above all, the visit will be a time of prayer and growth as Pope Francis is expected to talk about the importance of the family to Americans. He may also touch on other important issues of the day. 

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Pope Francis is in Philadelphia from September 26 - 27, where he will attend the World Meeting of Families. 

The planned erection of the fence has many people wondering why Pope Francis needs so much security. Is he under a particular threat? Not exactly, but he isn't safe either. He has been threatened in the past, particularly by Muslim extremists affiliated with the Islamic State. 

Security is important for Pope Francis, even if he himself refuses to stay behind bulletproof glass. He is very popular, but also controversial. Christian persecution, particularly from extremist groups, is at an all-time high. Pope Francis is many great things, unfortunately, he is also a target for evildoers. The added security will protect both the Holly Father and the millions of pilgrims who are coming to wish him well. 

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