Teenage Boy To become the Catholic Church’s “First Millennial Saint” | Died in 2006 His Body Preserved to Be Canonized By The Pope!
Carlo Acutis, born on May 3, 1991, in London, was no ordinary teenager. Despite his short life, ending on October 12, 2006, Carlo left a remarkable legacy that continues to inspire millions. Known as the “patron saint of the internet,” Carlo was a tech-savvy, faith-driven young man. He combined his devotion to Catholicism with his digital expertise. His beatification in 2020 and his scheduled canonization on April 27, 2025, mark him as a modern figure in the traditional historical context of sainthood. Carlos’s restless body peacefully rests in the Church of Santa Maria Maggiore in Assisi.
Carlo’s story resonates particularly with young people today because of how he used technology to deepen faith and community connections. Let’s dive into his fascinating life and understand why this millennial is being honored in such an extraordinary way.
Early Life and Family Background
Carlo Acutis was born into a wealthy Italian family living in London. His father, Andrea Acutis, worked in insurance, while his mother, Antonia Salzano, came from a family in publishing. Despite their privilege, Carlo’s parents were not religious. Much of his early care came from nannies. This cultural diversity, particularly the influence of a Polish nanny, shaped Carlo’s early understanding of faith.
Carlo displayed extraordinary kindness from a young age. One notable moment came during daycare when, instead of retaliating against bullies, he remarked, “Jesus would not be happy if I lost my temper.” His summers spent in Centola and at Santa Margherita Ligure with his grandparents provided further exposure to the faith, often praying the rosary with elderly women at the local parish church.
Carlo attended Jesuit schools, including the prestigious Instituto Leone XIII in Milan, where his love for learning blossomed. While an average student in class, Carlo excelled in self-directed studies, teaching himself programming languages like Java and C++. He also enjoyed playing the saxophone and reading about various academic subjects.
Devotion to Faith: The Making of a Saint
Carlo’s faith journey began at an early age. He received his First Communion at seven and was confirmed at 12. His deep devotion to the Eucharist was evident through his regular attendance at daily Mass and Eucharistic Adoration. This dedication not only transformed Carlo’s life but also had a profound impact on his family. His unwavering belief in God inspired his previously secular parents to reconnect with the Church.
Even within his household, Carlo’s faith sparked transformations. Rajesh Mohur, a Brahmin immigrant employed by the family, became a Christian after discussions with Carlo. Rajesh’s friend and mother also converted after being inspired by Carlo’s kindness and insights.
Carlo became a catechist at 12, guiding his peers in understanding the faith. He was admired for his humility and eagerness to help others, whether it was teaching catechism or assisting with computer issues.
The Digital Evangelist: Using Technology for Faith
Carlo’s technological talent became his unique way of spreading the faith. At just 14, he created a website cataloging Eucharistic miracles and Marian apparitions. He also built websites for his parish and promoted volunteering initiatives, earning national recognition for his efforts.
Inspired by Blessed Giacomo Alberione, who used media to evangelize, Carlo aimed to bring faith closer to young people through technology. His work was groundbreaking, combining his love for programming with his devotion to the Church. His website became a powerful tool for sharing the richness of Catholic traditions, and his family became involved in maintaining the project.
Illness, Death, and Beatification
In October 2006, Carlo was diagnosed with acute promyelocytic leukemia. Despite intense pain, he faced his illness with remarkable grace, offering his suffering to the Pope and the Church. He told his mother, “Mom, don’t be afraid. Since Jesus became a man, death has become the passage toward life.”
Carlo passed away on October 12, 2006, at the age of 15. His funeral was attended by a crowd of strangers, many of whom had been moved by his life and faith. In 2020, Carlo was beatified following the Vatican’s confirmation of a miracle in Brazil—a boy with a pancreatic defect was healed after prayers to Carlo.
Canonization in 2025
Carlo’s journey to sainthood advanced further in May 2024, when Pope Francis approved a second miracle. A Costa Rican woman who had suffered a brain hemorrhage was healed after her mother prayed at Carlo’s tomb. His canonization is scheduled during the Jubilee of Youth on April 27, 2025.
Today, Carlo’s legacy continues through traveling exhibitions of his Eucharistic miracles project, life-sized statues, and adaptations of his story in books, comics, and even a video game. Seen as a relatable figure, especially for young people, Carlo’s life bridges the gap between tradition and modernity.
Conclusion
Carlo Acutis once said, “Everyone is born as an original, but many die as photocopies.” His life challenges us to pursue our passions and live meaningfully. Carlo’s story inspires not just faith but also a call to blend technology with positive change. Whether it’s exploring Eucharistic miracles or engaging with your community, Carlo’s legacy encourages us all to leave our unique mark on the world.
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