In 2022, Pope Francis announced that 2025 would be a Jubilee year for the Catholic Church, called the Jubilee of Hope. What does this mean? It is an offering of great joy and opportunities for the faithful to participate in events at both the Vatican and dioceses across the world! On Christmas Eve (December 24, 2024, the Pope opened the Holy Door of St. Peter’s Basilica. And for the first time ever, he opened the Holy Door at Rebibbia new Complex Prison in Rome. He explained, he wants everyone to “have the opportunity to fling open the doors to their hearts and to understand that hope never disappoints.” Here is additional information and a calendar of events from the USCCB
In addition to the Jubilee, there was also an introduction of a new mascot from the Vatican: Luce!
Luce, who’s name means “light” in Italian, was created to draw in the younger generation and provide a way to spread the message of hope through Luce and her friends. Let’s take a look at all of the symbolism she wears.
Pilgrim’s cross: Evangelism and mission
Shells glimmer in her eyes: the scallop shell of Camino de Santiago, which is an emblem of the pilgrimage journey.
Shining eyes: hope of the heart
Sailor’s raincoat: colors of the Vatican flag and journeying through life’s storms.
Muddy boots: a long and difficult journey
staff: pilgrimage towards eternity
Santino: trusty dog by her side
And how about that World Mission Rosary! This is inspired by Archbishop Fulton J. Sheen, and each color symbolizes each of the people of the world. Yellow is for Asia, Red for the Americas, White for Europe, Blue for the Pacific islands and green for Africa. Visit my store on Etsy or email me to request your own World Mission rosary (limited availability).
Who are her friends?
And what about her friends. She has an Angel with her and watching over her, just as our guardian angel is always with us.
She also has a Dove, symbolizing the holy Spirit, purity, the search for God and a messenger of peace.
Her pet dog San Rocco is a sign of Divine Providence, and friendship.
Her friends are Xin, Fe and Sky. Each wearing raincoats with the colors of the World Mission rosaries, they also join her on her journey.
She's everywhere, even on TikTok
Is there a controversy?
Just as with most things, there are those who are drumming up controversy about Luce and her friends. Some don’t like the anime look, some have said her name is linked to Lucifer (which is very untrue and debunked), and others ignorant of the World Mission rosary thought it was supporting the LGBTQ+ community with the rainbow colors (just because there is a rainbow doesn’t always mean anything other than colors of a rainbow, please).
So which is your favorite image of Luce?
I love the imagery and symbolism of Luce. She is fun and engaging and I’d love to learn more of her adventures encountering new believers and bringing them closer to Jesus. What is your favorite image of Luce? Do you think she is engaging and will bring others to the faith?
