God sends the Church saints in every age. We’re used to hearing about monks, nuns, and missionaries from centuries ago. But holy men and women are walking among us in our time on their way to sainthood.
One of the most recent saints is Blessed Carlo Acutis (1991–2006), an Italian boy who will be canonized by the pope during the Jubilee for Adolescents, which will be held April 25-27, 2025 in Rome.
Here are seven things to know about this modern witness to Christ.
1. He will be the first millennial saint.
Bl. Carlo was a child of the ’90s who went to his eternal reward at age 15, during the Pontificate of Benedict XVI. We pray that he’s the first of many more millennial saints to come.
2. He actively nourished his faith from childhood.
Many parents have to drag their children to Mass. After receiving his first Communion, Bl. Carlo wanted to participate in the liturgy as often as possible. He also took to the Rosary at an early age.
3. He helped nourish his mother’s faith.
Antonia Salzano was not very religious until her son Carlo became serious about his faith. She had only attended Mass a few times in her life. Her son helped her realize the necessity of partaking of the Bread of Life frequently and devoutly.
4. He built a Catholic website.
Bl. Carlo taught himself basic coding languages, including C and C++. He combined his love of the Eucharist and technology to create a website documenting Eucharistic miracles throughout history, hoping to draw fallen-away Catholics back to Mass.
5. He loved video games.
In many ways Bl. Carlo was a typical teenage boy. He loved playing video games and sports with his friends and used these fun times to evangelize.
6. He died from leukemia.
Rather than give way to anger and despair, young Carlo offered up his suffering for Pope Benedict XVI and the Church. His feast day is October 12.
7. He got his wish to be buried in Assisi.
One of Bl. Carlo’ favorite saints was Francis of Assisi. He wanted to be buried in the city of the great founder of the Franciscans and his wish was granted.
Verso Ministries is setting out to Rome and Assisi to celebrate Bl. Carlo Acutis and attend his canonization. We invite you to join us on this pilgrimage!
Pilgrimage for the Canonization of Blessed Carlo Acutis
Blessed Carlo Acutis, pray for us!
