In an event that mingled siglos-old devotion with modern day culture, Carlo Acutis became the first millennial saint of the Catholic Church. His canonization, which took place right before the eyes of Pope Leo XIV at St. Peter’s Square, is one of the most important achievements in Church history, as it celebrates a teenager that used technology to evangelize the world.
Who is Carlo Acutis?
He was born in London to Italian parents, Andrea Acutis and Antonia Salzano, on May 3, 1991. A short while after, the family moved to Milan where Carlo began to show exceptional devotion to his religion. What makes Carlo’s life story unique was the fact that his parents were not religious at all and, Carlo was the one that motivated them to embark on that spiritual journey. His mother always reminisced about how deeply religious her son was and how that inspired her to seek a spiritual awakening.
At the age of only seven, Carlo Acutis was already engaged in many of the practices associated with his faith and devoted a special appreciation for the Eucharist and engaged in the daily devotion of the rosary as a way of honoring the Blessed Virgin Mary whom he referred to as “the only woman in my life”.”.
Compassionate Life as a Digital Apostle
Even in his early years, Carlo Acutis was a person whose level of faith was advanced for his age, and his understanding of faith resonated with those he associated around him. He became an advocate for students who were maltreated, and as a matter of course, he would give away his pocket money to assist the needy of his society. His compassion included helping friends impacted by difficult family situations, and he went out of his way to make certain that they did not suffer from a lack of attention.
But Carlo Acutis is best known for his work in computer technology. He was a computer enthusiast and advocate of self-education. He developed websites for the local church and his school. One of his best known works was an online catalog in which he documented Eucharistic miracles around the world. He spent many years intensively researching and documenting these miracles with the aim of helping the world appreciate the importance of the Eucharist. His work on the project was brought to a halt by his demise in October of 2006.
Health Trials and Inner Spiritual Peace
In October of 2006, Carlo Acutis had to deal with some tough health issues. During this period of time, he was able to calm his spirit and stomach and was able to express his wishes plainly to his folks. He died on the 12th of October, 2006, at 15. He wished to be buried at Assisi, which he was. This was because he was a fan of St. Francis.
Miracles and Steps Toward Sainthood
In the case of Carlo Acutis, the first step was to confirm and prove two miracles. The first case of a miracle was the complete and sudden recovery of a brazilian boy who was gravely ill. Physicians were in disbelief when the boy got better after people prayed to Carlo Acutis.
The second miracle involved a young lady who lived in Costa Rica. After suffering from a serious injury, her family visited the tomb of Carlo Acutis in Assisi, praying for her recovery. The church was shocked at how fast and extraordinary her recovery was.
A Saint for the Age of the Internet
Carlo Acutis was and still is very appealing to the younger generations on time. Often referred to as “God’s influencer,” he is known for blending religion with the use of technology. Acutis is one of the few examples of a religious person that is accessible for the youth in this day and age.
He balanced his approach to technology: he played video games and appreciated healthy limits periodically and encouraged his classmates to exercise good judgment and digital restraint.
Global Devotion and Legacy
Each year, Carlo Acutis’ tomb located in Assisi, attracts many pilgrims and is a significant visitation site. Acutis’ presentation pays respect to the precepts and makes him easy to relate to by younger devotees.
Many people in different countries exhibit a deep fascination with items linked to Carlo Acutis that have been dispersed around the world. These people, who oversee these items, report high levels of interest during international travels. These followers often seek to relate to Carlo Acutis’ legacy for different personal reasons.
Lasting Inspiration
Apart from his many technological advancements, Carlo Acutis’ legacy includes a quote that says, “All are born as originals, but many die as photocopies,” which encourages people to live out their beliefs as authentically as possible and challenges them to do otherwise. Some church leaders have used his quote to guide the youth, especially in telling them to refrain from the many social traps that are presented.
In our contemporary world, Carlo Acutis’ life is a testament to the fact that spiritual dedication is possible. Many young Catholics to this day have been inspired by his witness, and are committed to practicing their faith through the small and simple deeds of prayer, kindness, and technology.
Conclusion
For the Catholic Church, the canonization of Carlo Acutis is a first in history. Carlo Acutis is the first millennial saint. His life is a guiding light to the younger generation. He reminds us of the importance of fulfilling our deeper values. His purpose driven life is an example that will shape the lives of many.
Source: https://edition.cnn.com/2025/09/07/europe/millennial-saint-carlo-acutis-intl
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