The Vatican has announced its new mascot, Luce, inspired by anime, for the Jubilee of 2025. Thus, revealing an unprecedented encounter between the Catholic Church and Japanese pop culture. Created by Italian designer Simone Legno, from the tokidoki brand, Luce represents the attempt to connect the Church with youth through an aesthetic inspired by anime and games.
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The character will make her debut at the Lucca Comics and Games convention in Italy, marking the Vatican's first participation in a pop culture event. Luce, dressed in a yellow coat, muddy boots and carrying a pilgrim's cross, symbolizes the spiritual journey and hope, according to the Vatican.
With glowing eyes that resemble the traditional glow of anime characters, the mascot was described by Fisichella, pro-mayor of the Dicastery for Evangelization, as a visual metaphor for the Church's message of hope and faith. In addition, the mascot will also be one of the highlights of the Holy See pavilion at Expo 2025, in Osaka, Japan.
The influence of anime culture on the Vatican's new mascot
Luce's creation reflects a strategic move by the Vatican to engage with new cultural languages. This is an initiative that aims to bring the Church closer to new generations. This character and his “pilgrim friends” — Fe, Xin and Sky — display adventurous traits with influences from RPG games and Japanese aesthetics. Thus, enabling an unprecedented approach to transmit religious values.
The launch of Luce at a comics and games convention reinforces the Vatican's commitment to exploring the field of pop culture. Therefore, establishing a bridge with young people who identify with these universes. Simone Legno, creator of the mascot, expressed her gratitude to the Vatican for the opportunity to make space for pop culture. He highlighted his desire for Luce to touch the hearts of young people and represent feelings of connection and hope.
Luce and the preparation for the jubilee of 2025
With boots that suggest a challenging journey and a staff that symbolizes the path to eternity, Luce reflects values of faith and determination. His yellow raincoat, which resembles the Vatican flag, represents his commitment to the storms of life and the mission of transmitting hope. Thus, exceeding the physical limits of the Church.
The Jubilee is a celebration in the Catholic Church, held every 25 years, which invites faithful from all over the world to experience a year of grace and pilgrimage. Therefore, Luce's presence in the 2025 celebrations is part of a series of cultural events organized by the Vatican.
With the theme “Beauty brings hope”, the Vatican pavilion at Expo 2025 will also feature the work “The Entombment of Christ”, by Caravaggio, on loan from the Vatican Museums. Luce, with her pilgrim look and bright eyes, represents the spiritual guide of young people, echoing Pope Francis' message for youth to be “pilgrims” in faith and not “tourists” in their spirituality.
