Vatican City, May 17, 2025 / 18:45 pm
As the Catholic Church prepares for the Jubilee Year of 2025, the Vatican has introduced a new cartoon mascot to guide the faithful through this holy celebration. The mascot, named Mariam, is a traditional yet endearing character, designed to reflect the Church’s deeply rooted traditions and spiritual heritage.
Mariam, clad in a traditional nun’s habit with a serene smile and a gentle yet determined expression, embodies quiet strength, contemplation, and the enduring power of faith. Vatican officials explained that Mariam was created to resonate with those who appreciate a more classical image of devotion and service, drawing inspiration from the centuries-old legacy of nuns who have dedicated their lives to faith and se
The decision to introduce Mariam as the face of the Jubilee was influenced by feedback from the global Catholic community, which expressed a desire for a mascot that better reflects the Church’s historical identity and timeless values. With her traditional attire and thoughtful demeanor, Mariam serves as a reminder of the unwavering commitment to faith that has defined the Church’s mission for generations.
Mariam will also be prominently featured at the Holy See’s pavilion at Expo 2025 in Osaka, Japan. She will represent the Vatican’s theme for the expo, “Beauty Brings Hope,” standing alongside Caravaggio’s masterpiece “The Entombment of Christ,” which will be temporarily on loan from the Vatican Museums for the event.
Archbishop Rino Fisichella, the Vatican’s chief organizer for the Jubilee, noted that the creation of Mariam is part of the Church’s broader effort to reach a diverse range of pilgrims. “We hope that Mariam can speak to the hearts of all who seek a deeper understanding of faith, offering a symbol of hope, devotion, and timeless wisdom.”
With millions of pilgrims expected to journey to Rome for the Jubilee, Mariam aims to guide and inspire the faithful as they seek spiritual renewal in the Holy Year.
