Why did the pope announce anime mascots?

So some of you might have seen a trend as the Vatican announces their plans to bring god and anime on their side in real life.

The mascot is called Luce, cute anime girl with religious aspects to it.

But mama mia why did they do this for their event next year? It just seems totally unreal and I feel like I'm living in a simulation.

Never have i thought these zealous buggers would use anime influences in a bajillion years