Carlo Acutis, a British-born Italian teenager who was famous for his love of technology and profound Catholic faith, will become the first millennial-generation saint. The 15-year-old, who died of leukemia in 2006, will be canonized in St. Peter’s Square on April 27, attracting tens of thousands of believers from across the globe.
Acutis, born in London but raised in Italy, applied his computer expertise in developing websites for his parish as well as for the Catholic Church to share the Gospel message across the internet. His mother, Antonia Salzano Acutis, quoted that Carlo lived a normal adolescent life but had a strong focus on serving people and keeping Jesus in the focus of his life. “He was a common child, yet he had a rare relationship to faith,” she added.
Acutis body was moved to Assisi, according to his request, where he lies in a glass coffin clad in jeans, sneakers, and a track jacket. The grave has since turned into a shrine for young Catholics who go on pilgrimages seeking inspiration.
The Vatican credited two miracles to Carlo’s intervention, the cure of a Brazilian boy suffering from a serious pancreatic condition and the recovery of a Costa Rican woman after a nearly fatal bicycle accident.
Assisi Bishop Domenico Sorrentino described Carlo’s happiness and unshakeable faith as an inspiration to young people today. “He presents them with a genuine image of Christianity hopeful and joyful,” he said.
But Church authorities have denounced the sale of Carlo’s relics on the internet, calling on the authorities to act.
Carlo’s life has moved countless young people. “Witnessing a boy younger than me with such deep faith touched my heart,” commented one 18-year-old pilgrim in Assisi.
