Luce to play piviotal role in mission of Jubilee Year

24 Jan 2025

By The Record

Holy Year 2025 Mascot
Luce, the Vatican’s cartoon mascot for the Holy Year 2025, is seen in a drawing by the character’s creator, the Italian artist Simone Legno. Photo: CNS /Iubilaeum2025, Simone Legno.

The Vatican has officially unveiled the mascot for the Holy Year 2025: Luce, a vibrant and joyful character symbolising light and hope.

Designed to resonate with people of all ages and backgrounds, Luce’s introduction marks a fresh approach to engaging pilgrims and visitors who will flock to Rome during this significant year.

The Holy Year, also known as a Jubilee Year, is a longstanding tradition in the Catholic Church, offering spiritual renewal, forgiveness, and unity.

Luce, the Vatican’s cartoon mascot for the Holy Year 2025, and her friends are seen in a drawing by the character’s creator, the Italian artist Simone Legno. Luce’s friends include her dog, Santino, the angel Iubi and fellow pilgrims: Fe, wearing red; Sky wearing blue; and Xin, wearing green. Photo: CNS /Iubilaeum2025, Simone Legno.

With the theme “Pilgrims of Hope,” the Holy Year 2025 will focus on inviting believers and seekers alike to rediscover their faith and renew their connection to God. Luce plays a pivotal role in embodying this mission.

The name “Luce,” Italian for “light,” reflects a central theme of the Jubilee.

Light has profound spiritual significance, symbolising guidance, truth, and the presence of God. The mascot’s design—a radiant figure holding a lantern—is a visual representation of these values.

The lantern signifies both personal and communal journeys, illuminating paths toward hope and reconciliation. Luce’s cheerful demeanour and welcoming arms are intended to inspire a sense of joy and openness among all who encounter it.

Luce, the Vatican’s cartoon mascot for the Holy Year 2025, carries a candle in a drawing by the character’s creator, the Italian artist Simone Legno. Photo: CNS /Iubilaeum2025, Simone Legno.

Luce’s creation stems from the Vatican’s commitment to inclusivity and its recognition of the universal language of symbols.

The mascot’s vibrant colors and approachable design aim to attract children, families, and youth, making the Jubilee more accessible to diverse audiences.

By integrating a modern and relatable character, the Church hopes to connect with contemporary society in meaningful ways.

Beyond its visual appeal, Luce will feature prominently in promotional materials, events, and social media campaigns leading up to and during the Holy Year.

Luce, the Vatican’s cartoon mascot for the Holy Year 2025, reads the Bible in a drawing by the character’s creator, the Italian artist Simone Legno. Photo: CNS /Iubilaeum2025, Simone Legno.

The mascot will also appear at key locations in Rome, including St Peter’s Basilica and other Jubilee pilgrimage sites. Pilgrims can expect to see Luce on banners, merchandise, and even interactive digital platforms, creating a unified and celebratory atmosphere.

The introduction of Luce aligns with Pope Francis’ emphasis on hope, compassion, and dialogue.

By choosing a mascot that embodies light and warmth, the Vatican sends a clear message of welcome to all who wish to partake in this global spiritual event.

As preparations continue for the Holy Year 2025, Luce stands as a symbol of unity and inspiration, reminding the faithful and curious alike of the transformative power of light, hope, and faith.

Luce, the Vatican’s cartoon mascot for the Holy Year 2025, prays in a drawing by the character’s creator, the Italian artist Simone Legno. Photo: CNS /Iubilaeum2025, Simone Legno.