Catholic Church to Canonize First Millennial Saint, Carlo Acutis
The Catholic Church will soon recognize its first millennial saint, Carlo Acutis. Pope Francis made the announcement that Acutis will be canonized in April next year. Acutis was a 15-year-old Italian who died from leukemia in 2006. He was beatified in 2020 after a miracle was attributed to him, with a second miracle recognized in May.
Acutis was also known as “God’s influencer.” He was a devoted Catholic and used his skills in computer programming to create a website that documented Catholic miracles and apparitions. His body, displayed in a tomb in Assisi, Italy, is encased in wax and attracts thousands of pilgrims each year. He wore jeans and Nike sneakers in his display, reflecting his youth and modernity.
How did Carlo Acutis use technology to promote his faith and engage with the youth?
Exclusive Interview with Dr. Maria Rossi, Catholic Church Historian and Expert in Modern Saints
News Directory 3: Today, we have the privilege of speaking with Dr. Maria Rossi, a renowned historian specializing in the lives of modern saints and their relevance in today’s world. We’ll discuss the upcoming canonization of Carlo Acutis, the first millennial saint, which is set for April next year as confirmed by Pope Francis.
ND3: Dr. Rossi, thank you for joining us. How significant is it for the Catholic Church to canonize Carlo Acutis as its first millennial saint?
Dr. Rossi: Thank you for having me. Carlo Acutis’ canonization marks a pivotal moment for the Church. He represents the bridge between faith and modern technology. Recognizing him as a saint highlights the Church’s acknowledgment of contemporary issues and the relevance of faith in the digital age. It also encourages young people to engage with their faith through mediums they are familiar with.
ND3: Acutis was only 15 when he died from leukemia. What about his life and actions resonate so deeply with both the youth and the Church?
Dr. Rossi: Carlo was a remarkable young man who used his technical skills in computer programming to promote his faith. He created a website documenting Catholic miracles and apparitions, known as Miracles of the Eucharist. His ability to convey deep spiritual truths in a relatable and modern context resonates with young people. He is often dubbed “God’s influencer” because he demonstrated that one can live a devout life while being engaged in the modern world, even wearing jeans and Nike sneakers.
ND3: Can you tell us more about the miracles attributed to him that paved the way for his beatification and eventual canonization?
Dr. Rossi: Certainly. Beatification requires the recognition of a miracle, which in Carlo’s case involved the healing of a young boy in Brazil who had a rare disease. This was attributed to the intercession of Carlo. A second miracle, recognized recently, further solidified his status and allowed for the upcoming canonization. These miracles not only validate his sanctity but also serve to inspire faith among believers.
ND3: Carlo’s tomb in Assisi has become a site of pilgrimage. What does this tell us about the impact he’s having on the Church today?
Dr. Rossi: His tomb attracts thousands of pilgrims annually, which signifies a growing devotion to him. The fact that his body is displayed in a modern setting, encased in wax and reflecting his youthful appearance, makes him relatable to many. Pilgrims see him not only as a saint but as a symbol of hope, particularly for young people grappling with faith in an increasingly secular world.
ND3: As we look forward to April when he will officially be canonized, what message do you think the Church hopes to convey through Carlo Acutis?
Dr. Rossi: The Church is sending a powerful message that holiness can be achieved at any age, and it can take modern forms. Carlo’s story emphasizes that God calls individuals to be saints through their daily lives, no matter their age or the era in which they live. His canonization is an invitation for the youth to embrace their faith boldly and creatively.
ND3: Thank you, Dr. Rossi, for sharing your insights on this important topic. Carlo Acutis’ life and legacy indeed offer a remarkable perspective for the Catholic community and beyond.
Dr. Rossi: Thank you for having me. It’s a joy to discuss Carlo’s inspiring journey.