Carlo Acutis Becomes the First Millennial Saint in History

The Catholic Church has officially recognized Carlo Acutis as its first “millennial” saint, marking a significant moment in religious history. Acutis, an Italian teenager who died at the age of 15 from leukaemia in 2006, gained posthumous fame for his innovative efforts to promote the Catholic faith through digital means. His canonization took place on Sunday and was presided over by Pope Leo XIV, the first American pontiff, in a ceremony that drew thousands of young people to St. Peter’s Square.

Born in London but raised in Milan, Acutis blended his love for technology with his faith. He created a website that documented miracles attributed to the Catholic Church, earning him the nickname “God’s influencer.” His approach to evangelization resonates with contemporary youth, distinguishing him from traditional saints often depicted in more solemn attire. Acutis is frequently portrayed wearing jeans, a T-shirt, and sneakers, making him relatable to younger generations.

Accompanying Acutis in the canonization ceremony was Pier Giorgio Frassatti, who died in 1925 at the age of 24. The dual canonization of these young men comes during a time when the Catholic Church is grappling with declining engagement from younger generations, particularly in the West. Recent surveys indicate a rising interest in Catholicism among Generation Z in the United States and Europe, despite the Church’s ongoing struggles with credibility due to clerical abuse scandals.

According to Acutis’ mother, Antonia Salzano, her son’s life exemplifies a message of hope for young people navigating the complexities of the digital age. “Carlo is a message of hope because he says, ‘Yes, you have to use (the internet) for good,’” she stated during an interview in Assisi. Salzano emphasized that her son was aware of the darker aspects of the internet and chose moderation, limiting his gaming to just one hour a week.

Acutis was known for his compassion from a young age, often using his pocket money to help the homeless and standing up for classmates facing bullying. His mother credits their Polish nanny, Beata Sperczynska, as an early influence on his faith. Acutis’ strong sense of humor and love for making films with his pets further illustrate his relatable nature.

In Assisi, where his body is laid out for public viewing, Acutis attracts a significant number of young visitors. Archbishop Domenico Sorrentino, the Bishop of Assisi, reported that nearly a million people visited the church where Acutis is displayed last year, and this figure is expected to grow. His popularity is not only local; an official shrine to Acutis exists in Malvern, Pennsylvania, further extending his influence.

Acutis’ route to sainthood has been notably swift. Canonization typically requires a rigorous examination of a candidate’s life and two miracles attributed to their intercession. Acutis was beatified in 2020 following the first miracle, which involved the healing of a Brazilian boy with a birth defect. The second miracle involved a girl from Costa Rica who recovered from serious head trauma after her mother prayed at Acutis’ tomb.

Despite his widespread appeal, the canonization of Acutis has sparked some criticism. Detractors argue that his cause may promote problematic theological views, particularly regarding his documentation of Eucharistic miracles. Andrea Grillo, a professor at the Pontifical Athenaeum of Sant’ Anselmo in Rome, cautioned that while enthusiasm for the Eucharist is positive, the collection of miracles could lead to misguided devotion.

Acutis’ remains were exhumed and preserved in a wax covering shaped to resemble him before being placed in a glass sarcophagus in the Church of Santa Maria Maggiore in Assisi. A fragment of his heart has been removed as a relic and displayed in various churches worldwide. During a recent youth event in Rome, the relic drew many young visitors, further illustrating Acutis’ ongoing relevance.

The canonization of Carlo Acutis stands as a testament to the Catholic Church’s efforts to connect with a younger audience. His life story emphasizes that holiness is attainable for all, regardless of age or circumstance, and his legacy will likely continue to inspire youth for generations to come.