Verghese V Joseph –
Vatican: Pope Francis has officially announced that Blessed Carlo Acutis will be canonized during the Catholic Church’s Jubilee Year 2025, specifically at the Jubilee of Teenagers from April 25 to 27. This momentous event will mark a significant milestone in the life of the Church and for young Catholics worldwide, as Acutis is set to become the first millennial saint.
The announcement of Carlo Acutis’ canonization came during Pope Francis’ general audience on November 20, 2024. The Pope confirmed that the canonization ceremony would take place during the Jubilee of Teenagers in April 2025. While the exact date has not been officially confirmed, it is anticipated that the canonization Mass will occur on Sunday, April 27.
After summarizing His catechesis in different languages, the Holy Father addressed special greetings to the faithful present. Then, after announcing the World Meeting on Children’s Rights and the Canonizations of Blessed Carlo Acutis and Pier Giorgio Frassati , he made an appeal for Ukraine.
“I want to say that next year, on Adolescent Day, I will canonize Blessed Carlo Acutis, and that on Youth Day, next year, I will canonize Blessed Pier Giorgio Frassati,” Pope Francis said.
This decision is particularly significant as it aligns with the Church’s ongoing efforts to engage younger generations and highlight role models who resonate with their experiences. Carlo Acutis is often referred to as “God’s geek” due to his use of technology for evangelization. He created a website cataloging Eucharistic miracles worldwide, demonstrating how faith can be integrated into modern life.
Carlo Acutis was born on May 3, 1991, in London to Italian parents and grew up in Milan, Italy. He was known for his exceptional intelligence and passion for technology, particularly computer programming. From a young age, Carlo demonstrated a profound commitment to his faith, often attending daily Mass and participating in various church activities. He famously referred to the Eucharist as “my highway to heaven,” reflecting his deep devotion to the Real Presence of Jesus in the sacrament.
Tragically, Carlo’s life was cut short when he was diagnosed with leukemia at the age of 15. He passed away on October 12, 2006, but his legacy continued to inspire many. After his death, Carlo’s body was transferred to Assisi, where he had made several pilgrimages during his life and expressed a desire to be close to St. Francis.
The path to sainthood for Carlo Acutis began with his beatification on October 10, 2020. This process required the recognition of two miracles attributed to his intercession. The first miracle involved a Brazilian boy who was healed from a serious illness after praying for Carlo’s intercession. The second miracle, recognized by Pope Francis in May 2024, involved Valeria Valverde, a young woman from Costa Rica who suffered severe head trauma from a bicycle accident while studying in Florence.
According to reports from the Vatican, Valeria’s condition was critical following her accident; she underwent emergency surgery and was not expected to survive. However, after her mother prayed at Acutis’ tomb in Assisi and left a written note requesting healing for her daughter, Valeria began to show signs of recovery almost immediately. Within days, she regained consciousness and began moving her limbs, ultimately making a full recovery against all medical predictions.
The news of Acutis’ canonization has been met with widespread enthusiasm among Catholics globally. Many view him as a relatable figure who exemplifies how faith can thrive in contemporary society. His story has inspired numerous initiatives aimed at engaging youth within the Church and promoting active participation in faith-based activities.
Pope Francis has emphasized that Carlo’s life serves as an example for young people today. In his messages leading up to the canonization, he has encouraged youth to prioritize their relationship with God and embrace the gift of the Eucharist, just as Carlo did during his short life.
The upcoming canonization is expected to draw thousands of young people to Rome for this historic occasion. Events surrounding the Jubilee Year are designed to foster community among young Catholics and encourage them in their spiritual journeys.
Blessed Carlo Acutis’ impending canonization represents not only an acknowledgment of his extraordinary life but also a call for young people everywhere to live out their faith boldly and creatively. His journey from a devout teenager with a passion for technology to sainthood serves as a powerful reminder that holiness can be found in everyday life.
As preparations for the canonization Mass continue, anticipation builds within the Catholic community. The event promises to be a celebration of faith that resonates deeply with youth around the world—a testament to Carlo Acutis’ enduring legacy and impact on future generations seeking inspiration in their spiritual lives.