Vatican mascot stirs controversy: Jubilee celebration uproar

The Vatican has declared 2025 the Jubilee Year. The celebrations will be accompanied by the slogan "Pilgrims of Hope." The ceremonies are set to begin on December 24 of this year. In light of this occasion, organizers have prepared some surprises for participants. One notable surprise is a mascot symbolizing the event, and the blue-haired girl has certainly stirred some debate.

Simone Legno, an Italian artist with thousands of fans on social media, recently collaborated with the Vatican to create a mascot for the Jubilee Year, inspired by anime. The figurine depicts a blue-haired girl named Luce. Her likeness is meant to symbolize a pilgrim; she is dressed in a traveler's attire, including a yellow raincoat, muddy boots, a missionary cross around her neck, and a pilgrim's staff. The doll's name, Luce, references the word for light in Italian.

The artist has also created other figurines. He designed three additional characters: Fe, Xin, and Sky, which form "Luce and Friends."

Many internet users have not received The modern project well, mainly due to the creator's previous activities. He is a supporter of LGBT+ people, and his works often reference queer culture. Furthermore, he works for Tokidoki, which has collaborated with companies like the British erotic toy manufacturer Lovehoney.

A flood of critical comments appeared online: "Cool 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."