UPDATE: The Catholic Church has officially canonized Carlo Acutis, marking him as the first “millennial” saint in history. This groundbreaking ceremony took place on October 15, 2023, at St. Peter’s Square, presided over by Pope Leo XIV, the first American pontiff, amidst thousands of young supporters.
Acutis, who tragically passed away at the young age of 15 from leukemia in 2006, became known as “God’s influencer” for his innovative use of technology to spread the Catholic faith. His website documenting miracles has captivated many, especially among the younger generation. Dressed in jeans and sneakers, Acutis breaks the mold of traditional saints, making him a relatable figure for today’s youth.
His canonization comes at a critical juncture for the Catholic Church, which is grappling with declining engagement among younger audiences, particularly in the wake of a clerical sexual abuse crisis. Recent surveys indicate a rising interest in Catholicism among Gen Z in the US and Europe, a trend that the church hopes to harness through figures like Acutis.
According to his mother, Antonia Salzano, Acutis embodies a message of hope and the potential for good in the digital age. “Carlo is a message of hope,” she stated, emphasizing his belief in using the internet for positive purposes. Acutis was not only tech-savvy; he was known for his compassion, often helping the homeless and supporting classmates facing challenges.
Attracting nearly one million visitors to his tomb in Assisi last year, Acutis has a growing global following. His swift path to sainthood, which typically takes centuries, was expedited after two miracles were attributed to him. The first involved healing a Brazilian boy with a birth defect, and the second concerned a girl from Costa Rica recovering from a serious head injury after prayers at his tomb.
Despite the excitement surrounding his canonization, some critics argue that Acutis’ legacy may promote a problematic theology focused on miracles. Andrea Grillo, a theologian, cautioned against the potential for such devotion to lead the church towards an unhealthy emphasis on “special signs.”
The canonization ceremony, attended by a diverse crowd of young Catholics, reinforces the church’s effort to connect with the youth. Visitors like Gary Friesen, born in the year of Acutis’ death, expressed a deep connection to the new saint, highlighting shared interests in technology and social media as tools for evangelization.
With Acutis now recognized as a saint, churches and schools worldwide can be dedicated in his name, further solidifying his impact. The church aims to leverage his appeal to engage younger generations and counteract the ongoing challenges it faces.
As the world watches, Acutis’ canonization could signal a transformative moment for the Catholic Church, one that embraces modernity while appealing to the inherent spirituality of today’s youth.
