Carlo Acutis to Become First Millennial Saint in Historic Canonization Ceremony
In a groundbreaking announcement, Pope Leo XIV has confirmed that Carlo Acutis—a teenager known for blending deep Catholic devotion with digital innovation—will be officially canonized on September 7, becoming the first saint from the Millennial generation.
The news was shared during the Pope’s first public consistory since assuming the papacy in May and marks a historic moment for the modern Catholic Church.
The Digital Disciple
Born in London in 1991 and raised in Milan, Acutis grew up with a remarkable faith.
He received his first communion at the age of seven and developed a deep sense of compassion, frequently donating to the poor and preparing meals for the homeless. What made him stand out, however, was how he fused his passion for technology with religious purpose—creating websites and digital exhibitions to spread Catholic teachings. He became affectionately known as “God’s influencer.”
Acutis passed away from leukemia in 2006 at just 15 years old. Despite his young age, his legacy of combining technology and faith left a profound impact on Catholics worldwide—especially among younger generations.
Miracles and Sainthood
The Vatican has attributed two miracles to Acutis, a prerequisite for sainthood. The first involved a two-year-old Brazilian boy, Matheus Vianna, suffering from a rare, fatal pancreatic disease. After a priest placed a relic of Acutis’ clothing on the child and prayed, the boy made a full recovery.
The second miracle occurred in Costa Rica, where a young woman named Valeria Valverde survived a severe brain hemorrhage after her mother visited Acutis’ tomb and prayed for healing. Doctors later confirmed the hemorrhage had miraculously ceased.
These miracles paved the way for Acutis’ canonization, which was originally set for April 27 but postponed following the death of Pope Francis on April 21.
A Shared Celebration of Youthful Faith
On September 7, Carlo Acutis will be canonized alongside Blessed Pier Giorgio Frassati, a 24-year-old who died from polio in 1925 after contracting the disease while aiding the sick. Frassati, like Acutis, embodied a life of youthful service and deep faith.
Together, their canonization highlights the Church’s recognition of modern examples of holiness, showcasing how selflessness, compassion, and spiritual commitment can flourish even in young lives.
A Legacy for the Digital Age
Carlo Acutis’ upcoming canonization is a powerful symbol for Catholics living in a rapidly changing world. He stands as a testament to how technology can be used to evangelize, connect, and serve others, and how young people can live lives of profound meaning and spiritual depth.
His story continues to inspire millions, reminding the faithful that sanctity is not reserved for the distant past—it can thrive in the here and now, in classrooms, communities, and even online platforms.
With the official ceremony just weeks away, the Catholic Church prepares to celebrate not only a new saint but a new era of sainthood—one rooted in modern challenges, youthful energy, and unwavering faith.