Luce (mascot)
Luce stands with blue hair and pale skin, wearing a yellow raincoat that references the flag of Vatican City. Her eyes hold highlights shaped like scallop shells, a traditional symbol for Catholic pilgrimage. She carries a pilgrim's staff to represent the journey toward eternity. Mud-stained boots on her feet show a long and difficult path. A multi-colored World Mission rosary hangs around her neck. Simone Legno designed these elements to resonate with younger generations. The yellow coat symbolizes journeying through life's storms. Shining eyes reflect hope in the heart.
Archbishop Rino Fisichella unveiled Luce on the 28th of October 2024, as the official mascot of the 2025 Jubilee. He spoke about living within pop culture beloved by youth. Simone Legno created the character as founder of tokidoki. An inflatable version appeared at Lucca Comics & Games in 2024. This event marked the first time the Vatican officially participated in a comic convention. A large display became a popular selfie spot for attendees. Later she appeared at Expo 2025 in Osaka, Japan. The Dicastery for Evangelization oversaw the presentation.
Luce represented the Holy See at Lucca Comics & Games in 2024. Schools run by the Catholic Church distributed dolls and key chains to students. Stickers and bookmarks also carried her image across Asia. Hong Kong and Indonesia used her design extensively. Bishop Joseph Ha noted that teenagers and children welcomed her immediately. Many chapels now feature Luce and her friends. She helped teach prayer to young church members. Her presence bridged traditional faith with modern media spaces.
Merchandise spread quickly through Asian countries after launch. Some traditionalist commentators called her too modern and silly. Others pushed back on the multi-colored rosary colors. Critics claimed they resembled pride flags despite their origin from Fulton Sheen's World Mission rosary. Many approved of her design while others remained skeptical. Younger generations embraced her as a relatable figure. The mixed response highlighted generational divides within the Church. Sales figures showed strong demand among youth demographics.
Twitter users joked about the Church embracing anime visuals. Fans compared Luce to Ai Ohto from Wonder Egg Priority. Others saw similarities to Rei Ayanami from Neon Genesis Evangelion. Emanuele Vietina said she shared traits with Arale Norimaki from Dr. Slump. Ken Iikura-Gross linked her to Buddy Christ from Dogma. Director Kevin Smith remarked that Buddy Christ winked so Luce could dilate. Fan art and cosplay proliferated online shortly after unveiling. Satirical comparisons appeared alongside genuine appreciation for her design.
Common questions
Who designed the mascot Luce for the 2025 Jubilee?
Simone Legno created the character as founder of tokidoki. He designed her to resonate with younger generations through specific visual elements like blue hair and a yellow raincoat.
When did Archbishop Rino Fisichella unveil Luce as the official mascot of the 2025 Jubilee?
Archbishop Rino Fisichella unveiled Luce on the 28th of October 2024. The Dicastery for Evangelation oversaw this presentation to establish her role in the upcoming Jubilee year.
Where did the Vatican officially participate in a comic convention featuring Luce?
An inflatable version of Luce appeared at Lucca Comics & Games in 2024. This event marked the first time the Vatican officially participated in a comic convention and featured a large display that became a popular selfie spot.
Why do critics claim the multi-colored rosary colors resemble pride flags?
Critics claimed the colors resembled pride flags despite their origin from Fulton Sheen's World Mission rosary. Some traditionalist commentators called the design too modern and silly while others pushed back on these color choices.
How did schools run by the Catholic Church distribute items featuring Luce?
Schools run by the Catholic Church distributed dolls and key chains to students. Stickers and bookmarks also carried her image across Asia where Hong Kong and Indonesia used her design extensively.