Carlo Acutis Becomes First Millennial Saint in Urgent Canonization

UPDATE: The Catholic Church is set to canonize Carlo Acutis, the first millennial saint, in a historic ceremony at the Vatican this morning. Acutis, who passed away in 2006 from leukemia at just 15 years old, will be recognized alongside Pier Giorgio Frassati, emphasizing a profound moment for youth within the Church.

The canonization Mass will commence at 10 AM Rome time (9 AM Irish time) and will be broadcast on RTÉ One and RTÉ Radio 1 Extra starting at 10:15 AM Irish time. This significant event follows a previous postponement originally scheduled for April 27 during the Jubilee of Teenagers, which was delayed due to the passing of Pope Francis on April 21.

A special Mass held during the mourning period for Pope Francis attracted a staggering 200,000 attendees, predominantly young people celebrating Acutis’s legacy. The vibrant gathering transformed a somber occasion into a jubilant tribute, with teenagers donning caps and t-shirts emblazoned with Acutis’s image.

Acutis, often referred to as “God’s influencer” and “the patron saint of the internet,” is celebrated for his digital outreach. He created a website showcasing Eucharistic miracles, merging his passion for technology with his faith. Despite coming from a wealthy family, Acutis’s compassion shone through as he dedicated himself to assisting the poor and homeless, often bringing them food and essentials.

His journey to sainthood was solidified after the recognition of two miracles attributed to him. The first involved the healing of a Brazilian child who had a pancreatic defect, which occurred after the child came into contact with one of Acutis’s t-shirts. The second miracle, confirmed in May 2024, involved a remarkable recovery of Valeria Valverde, a 21-year-old from Costa Rica. Valverde suffered a severe head injury in a bicycle accident in 2022 and was not expected to survive. Remarkably, after her mother prayed at Acutis’s tomb in Assisi, Valverde’s condition improved drastically, leading to her eventual recovery.

While the focus is on Acutis, Pier Giorgio Frassati will also be canonized today. Known for his dedication to social causes, Frassati’s legacy includes a commitment to the poor and a love for mountaineering. His coffin bears the inscription “Verso l’alto,” signifying his aspiration for higher ideals.

This canonization marks a pivotal moment for the Catholic Church, particularly as it occurs during the Jubilee Year, which has seen over 24 million visitors flock to Rome. It is also the first canonization ceremony led by Pope Leo XIV since his election, making it a historic occasion for both the Church and its followers.

As the world watches, the canonization of Carlo Acutis promises to inspire a new generation of believers, showcasing that holiness can indeed flourish in the modern era. Stay tuned for live updates and broadcasts from this momentous event.