The Catholic Church has recently canonized a saint who belonged to the millennial generation, embracing modern trends like sneakers, video games, and computer programming to promote religious teachings. Carlo Acutis, a British-Italian teenager who passed away at 15 from leukemia in 2006, was officially declared a saint during a Vatican ceremony. Known as “God’s influencer,” Acutis utilized the internet to strengthen his faith, earning titles such as the patron saint of the internet, the Apostle of the Eucharist, and the patron saint of computer programmers.
The canonization took place in St. Peter’s Square, with approximately 80,000 attendees, including young Catholics worldwide and families with millennial children. Pope Leo sanctified Acutis alongside Pier Giorgio Frassati, an Italian known for his charitable acts who succumbed to polio in the 1920s. A saint in the Catholic tradition embodies virtuous and heroic traits, believed to have ascended to Heaven.
Acutis, born in London in 1991 and raised in Milan, displayed a keen interest in computer science from a young age, delving into advanced programming literature. He developed a multilingual website showcasing Eucharistic miracles, using technology as a tool for evangelization. His devout nature was evident through daily church attendance and regular prayer, particularly before the Eucharist.
The young saint’s relatability extended beyond Rome, sparking celebrations globally. In Chicago, where the first U.S. church named after Acutis resides, parishioners marked “Carlo Fest” with festivities honoring his legacy. Students at Cardinal Carter High School in Ontario paid tribute by dressing in casual attire, reflecting Acutis’ contemporary lifestyle. The excitement among youth stems from Acutis’ ordinary teenage pursuits combined with unwavering faith and dedication to Christ.
Acutis’ rapid journey to sainthood, less than two decades after his passing, is attributed to Pope Leo’s emphasis on engaging with young believers and recognizing the sanctity within common individuals. By embodying qualities of altruism, faithfulness, and devotion, Acutis serves as a role model for contemporary youth seeking spiritual fulfillment amidst daily activities.