Pope Leo Canonizes Carlo Acutis as First Millennial Saint

Pope Leo has officially canonized Carlo Acutis, a 15-year-old computer expert, as the first millennial saint. This significant declaration took place during a mass in St Peter’s Square on Sunday, drawing a crowd of tens of thousands, including many young families and millennials. Acutis, who passed away in October 2006 from leukemia, has gained recognition for using technology to spread the Catholic faith, earning him the nickname “God’s influencer.”

The ceremony marked a key moment in Pope Leo’s pontificate, as he also canonized another young Italian, Pier Giorgio Frassati, who died at the age of 24 in 1925. In his homily, the Pope emphasized the importance of directing one’s life towards God, stating, “The greatest risk in life is to waste it outside of God’s plan.”

The Vatican reported that 36 cardinals, 270 bishops, and numerous priests participated in the mass, underscoring the appeal of both saints among church leaders and the general public. These canonizations were originally scheduled for earlier in the year but were postponed following the death of Pope Francis in April.

Carlo Acutis was born on May 3, 1991, in London to a well-off Catholic family. Shortly after his birth, they relocated to Milan, where Carlo enjoyed a happy childhood marked by a deepening spiritual commitment. He displayed a keen interest in computer science from a young age, often immersing himself in college-level programming books.

His most notable achievement is a multilingual website that documents Eucharistic miracles recognized by the Church, a project he completed during a time when such technical undertakings were largely reserved for professionals. Carlo’s dedication to his faith was evident, as he reportedly spent hours in prayer before the Eucharist daily.

In an age when many young people are consumed by technology, Carlo practiced discipline, limiting his video game time to just one hour a week, demonstrating his belief that personal relationships were more valuable than virtual interactions. This lifestyle resonates with the Catholic leadership, who have expressed concerns about the impact of technology on youth.

Carlo’s untimely death at 15 from acute leukemia has not diminished his influence. His tomb in Assisi, adorned with a glass panel, allows young pilgrims to view him dressed casually in jeans and a sweatshirt. His relatable image has attracted millions of young Catholics to Assisi, seeking inspiration from his life.

Students like Leo Kowalsky, a secondary school pupil in Chicago, view Carlo as a model for their own lives. Kowalsky shared, “It’s like I can maybe not be as great as Carlo may be, but I can be looking after him and be like, ‘What would Carlo do?’” The excitement surrounding this canonization is palpable, especially for those connected to the Blessed Carlo Acutis Parish.

The other saint canonized, Pier Giorgio Frassati, is remembered for his charitable work and dedication to helping the poor. Born into a prominent family in Turin, he made a lasting impact through his faith and service, despite his brief life.

Pope Leo’s canonization of Carlo Acutis not only celebrates a young life dedicated to God but also aims to inspire the next generation of Catholics. Through technology and faith, Carlo exemplifies how modern youth can live meaningful, purpose-driven lives.