Vatican's jubilee mascot stirs controversy with new look

The Vatican has designated 2025 as the Jubilee Year, and the events will be themed with the slogan "Pilgrims of Hope." Ceremonies will commence on December 24th at GTM. Organisers have planned several surprises for participants, including a mascot that symbolises the event. However, the blue-haired girl has stirred much controversy.

Simone Legno, an Italian artist with a substantial social media following, collaborated with the Vatican to create a mascot for the Jubilee Year inspired by anime. The figurine depicts a blue-haired girl named Luce, representing a pilgrim. She is dressed in a traveller's signature elements: a yellow raincoat, muddy boots, a missionary cross around her neck, and a pilgrim's staff. The doll's name is drawn from the Italian word "luce," meaning light.

The artist has also created other figurines, designing three additional characters: Fe, Xin, and Sky, collectively known as "Luce and Friends".

The contemporary project has not been well-received by many internet users, primarily because of the previous activities of the figurine's creator. He is a supporter of LGBT+ people, and his works often reference the queer community. Moreover, he works for the brand Tokidoki, which has partnered with, among others, the British erotic toy manufacturer Lovehoney.

Online criticism has been abundant: "Interesting until I found out what the author and this company do," "this won't make the church more popular," "the world is falling apart," "this is the strangest thing I've heard recently," "In my opinion, this is not a good idea. Overpowering true faith with plush toys, etc. A true symbol can be the cross, not mascots."