On September 7, 2025, history will be made in the Catholic Church as Italian teenager Carlo Acutis is officially canonized as the first millennial saint. Pope Leo XIV made the announcement just days ago, setting the date for a ceremony in St. Peter’s Square that will draw thousands, especially young Catholics inspired by Acutis’ remarkable story. Originally scheduled for April 27, the event was postponed after the passing of Pope Francis in April, but the anticipation has only grown since then.
Carlo Acutis, born in London to Italian parents and raised in Milan, died at just 15 years old in 2006 after a short battle with leukemia. Despite his brief life, his impact has been profound and far-reaching. Known affectionately as “God’s influencer,” Acutis combined his love for technology with a deep spiritual commitment. He attended Mass daily, taught catechism, helped the homeless, and built a website cataloging over 100 eucharistic miracles recognized by the Church. His faith was contagious, inspiring his own mother and countless others to reconnect with their beliefs.
The Journey of Carlo Acutis
Carlo Acutis’ path to sainthood has been remarkably swift. Traditionally, the process from death to canonization takes centuries—on average, 262 years. In Acutis’ case, it has taken only 19 years, a testament to the widespread devotion and the clear evidence of miracles attributed to his intercession. His beatification in 2020 was a crucial milestone, and since then, his tomb in Assisi has become a major pilgrimage site. The glass coffin, where he is displayed in jeans, sneakers, and a sweatshirt, makes him a relatable figure for young pilgrims.
Acutis’ life was a blend of the ordinary and the extraordinary. He enjoyed video games, soccer, and spending time with friends, but he also devoted himself to charity and faith. His self-taught programming skills allowed him to create websites for his parish and for the broader Catholic community, earning him the unofficial title of “patron saint of the internet.” Stories of miracles—including healings from infertility and cancer—have been shared by his mother and followers, further cementing his reputation as a source of hope and inspiration.
Why Carlo Acutis Resonates Today
Carlo Acutis’ canonization comes at a pivotal moment for the Catholic Church. With younger generations increasingly disengaged, his story offers a bridge between traditional faith and modern life. He is often portrayed in casual clothes, making him accessible to teenagers and young adults who see themselves reflected in his interests and struggles. The timing of his canonization during the 2025 Holy Year ensures that even more pilgrims will visit Assisi, drawn by his example of holiness in everyday life.
Beyond the symbolism, Carlo’s legacy is practical. His website on eucharistic miracles continues to educate and inspire, while chapels and schools around the world are named in his honor. He is celebrated not only as a model of faith but also as a reminder that sainthood is attainable for anyone, regardless of age or background. His rapid rise to sainthood is unprecedented, yet it feels fitting for a generation that values authenticity, digital connection, and making a difference in the world.
The Canonization Ceremony and Its Significance
The upcoming canonization ceremony on September 7 will be a landmark event. Pope Leo XIV, the first pontiff from America, will preside, marking his first major canonization since becoming pope. The event is expected to attract a diverse crowd, with a special focus on young people who see Carlo Acutis as one of their own. Alongside Acutis, another young Italian, Pier Giorgio Frassati—who died at 24 in 1925—will also be canonized, highlighting the Church’s renewed emphasis on youthful holiness.
The ceremony will be held in St. Peter’s Square, a fitting venue for such a historic occasion. Thousands are expected to attend, both in person and via live streams, ensuring that Carlo Acutis’ message reaches a global audience. His story is already inspiring a new wave of interest in Catholicism among Generation Z, according to recent studies in the UK and US. The Church hopes that his example will encourage more young people to explore their faith and find meaning in service to others.
Carlo Acutis: A Beacon for the Digital Age
Carlo Acutis’ legacy is unique in the history of the Catholic Church. He is the first saint whose life was so closely intertwined with the digital world, and his canonization reflects the Church’s desire to engage with modern culture. His ability to use technology for good—rather than as a distraction—resonates with today’s youth, who are often criticized for their screen time but are also capable of great creativity and compassion.
Acutis’ story is a reminder that holiness is not confined to the past or to remote monasteries. It can be found in the everyday lives of teenagers who play video games, wear sneakers, and use the internet to spread kindness and faith. His rapid canonization is a sign of hope for the Church, showing that new models of sanctity are possible in every generation.
Are you inspired by Carlo Acutis’ story? Share your thoughts and experiences with others, and consider visiting his tomb in Assisi or participating in local events honoring his canonization. Let his example encourage you to use your talents—digital or otherwise—to make a positive impact in your community.