The Vatican has designated 2025 as a Jubilee Year, celebrated under the slogan ‘Pilgrims of Hope’. The festivities will commence on 24 December this year, and organisers have planned several surprises for participants. One of the highlights is a new mascot symbolising the event—a blue-haired girl that has sparked considerable debate.

Italian artist Simone Legno, who boasts thousands of followers on social media, recently collaborated with the Vatican to create an anime-inspired mascot for the Jubilee 2025. Named "Luce," the blue-haired figure represents a pilgrim, complete with traditional traveller’s equipment: a yellow raincoat, muddy boots, a missionary cross around her neck, and a pilgrim’s staff. Her name, "Luce," means "light" in Italian, symbolising hope and illumination.

In addition to Luce, Legno has designed three other figures—Fe, Xin, and Sky—who together form "Luce and Friends."

The modern design has sparked mixed reactions online, with many users expressing disapproval. Much of the criticism centres on the artist’s past affiliations. Simone Legno, the creator of the mascot, is a known supporter of the LGBT+ community, and his work often references queer culture. Additionally, Legno collaborates with the brand Tokidoki, which has previously partnered with companies such as British erotic toy manufacturer Lovehoney.

A wave of critical comments has emerged across social media: "I thought it was cool until I found out what the artist and this company are involved in," "This isn’t going to make the Church more appealing," "The world is going downhill," "This is the strangest thing I’ve heard lately," and "In my opinion, this isn’t a good idea. We’re drowning out the true faith with mascots and gimmicks. The cross should be the real symbol, not a mascot."