In a remarkable event that bridges centuries-old tradition with the digital age, the Catholic Church is poised to canonise Carlo Acutis, a British-born teenager dubbed 'God's Influencer', this Sunday.
Acutis, who spent his early years in London before moving to Italy, will become the first Millennial saint. He earned his nickname by using his formidable computer skills to create a website documenting Eucharistic miracles, effectively evangelising to his generation online.
A Life Cut Short By Leukaemia
Tragically, Carlo's mission was cut short when he was diagnosed with an aggressive form of leukaemia. He offered his immense suffering for the Pope and the Church, telling his mother, 'I offer all the suffering I will have to suffer for the Lord, for the Pope, and the Church.' He passed away in 2006 at just 15 years old.
The Path to Sainthood: Miracles and Recognition
The path to sainthood requires the verification of two miracles. The first, recognised in 2020, involved the healing of a Brazilian boy from a rare pancreatic disorder after praying to Acutis. The second, approved by Pope Francis, concerned a Costa Rican woman whose head injury was miraculously healed after her mother prayed at Acutis's tomb.
His body, dressed in trainers and jeans, is now encased in glass and lies in a church in Assisi, where he has become a major pilgrimage figure.
From Prankster to Saint
Those who knew him describe a joyful, normal boy with a passion for video games, football, and playing pranks on friends. This relatable aspect makes his profound faith and dedication all the more striking. His story demonstrates that sanctity is not reserved for the distant past but is possible in the modern, everyday world.
His canonisation on Sunday will mark the culmination of a journey that began in London and serves as a powerful testament to a life dedicated to faith, charity, and the innovative use of technology for good.
